Attractions and Places To See around Tullynincrin - Top 10
Best attractions and places to see around Tullynincrin, located in the broader County Tyrone and Sperrins region of Northern Ireland, offer a diverse range of experiences. The area features natural landscapes, historical landmarks, and cultural sites. Visitors can explore ancient castles, historical ruins, and extensive forest areas. This region provides opportunities for both historical exploration and outdoor activities.
Best attractions and places to see around Tullynincrin
- The most popular attractions is Old Castle Archdale, a forest and historical site…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Old Castle Archdale
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Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones
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Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings
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Necarne Castle
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Castle Archdale Marina
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In the graveyard are several interesting stones, probably the most noted one is known as the Bishops stone, this odd shaped stone has been altered and reused several times, originally thought to have been a carved figure similar to those on nearby White Island. Another stone with a lot of history is the large slab standing west of the bishops stone, one side of the stone bears at least twelve cup-shaped hollows, see image above right, which suggest this maybe a multiple bullaun stone/cup marked stone that has been reused as an early Christian cross slab, as on the obverse face is a Greek cross in a circle with a bifurcated stem. Situated south of the bullaun stone is a holed stone, as the image shows this stone is half embedded in the ground. Immediately to the West of the holed stone is a broken 1.2 metre high stone pillar. This stone may have been damaged. http://www.megalithicireland.com/Killadeas.htm
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In the graveyard are several interesting stones, probably the most noted one is known as the Bishops stone, this odd shaped stone has been altered and reused several times, originally thought to have been a carved figure similar to those on nearby White Island. Another stone with a lot of history is the large slab standing west of the bishops stone, one side of the stone bears at least twelve cup-shaped hollows, see image above right, which suggest this maybe a multiple bullaun stone/cup marked stone that has been reused as an early Christian cross slab, as on the obverse face is a Greek cross in a circle with a bifurcated stem. Situated south of the bullaun stone is a holed stone, as the image shows this stone is half embedded in the ground. Immediately to the West of the holed stone is a broken 1.2 metre high stone pillar. This stone may have been damaged. http://www.megalithicireland.com/Killadeas.htm
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A hive of activity, the marina at Castle Archdale is full of things to do. Why not park your bike and pedal on water on one of the hydrobikes? Kayaks, paddleboards and boats are also available to hire. Or if you're looking for a break, this is a great place to stop and take it all in.
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During WW2 Castle Archdale was a major base for flying boats and housed up to 2,500 people. Buildings such as these would have been a central location for the RAF fighters who lived here. Sometimes exhibitions are held in these courtyards to display some of the key historical notes of the use of this area during the war.
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Old Castle Archdale is situated on Castle Hill within a 520 hectare coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest. The castle was built in the 1600s and was the main castle on this former estate before its successor took it's place in the 1800s, Castle Archdale.
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Old Castle Archdale sits on a forest clifftop. It is named 'old' to distinguish it from its successor, the 18th century Castle Archdale. The castle was built by an Englishman from Suffolk who had been granted the estate in 1612 after paying 5 pounds, 6 shillings and 8 pence for the 1000 acres of land. During the Irish Rebellion of 1641 the castle was captured by Rory Maguire as part of the uprising to retake his lands that had been lost in 1607. The heir to the castle was saved by his nurse however the other children were killed. After the castle was returned to the family it was repaired and lived in until 1689. The castle saw its end during the Williamite Wars when the castle was burnt out and abandoned.
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The route is only for walking, not much sightseeing, very interesting horse farm. Free parking.
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Perched atop a cliff and surrounded by thick forest, it's easy to imagine how life would have been hundreds of years ago as you wander the crumbling walls of Old Castle Archdale. Built in 1615 by Englishman John Archdale, the castle was captured by the Irish in the Irish Rebellion of 1641. The castle was inhabited until 1689, when it was destroyed by fire and abandoned.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Tullynincrin?
The region is rich in history. You can visit the ruins of Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle situated on a forest clifftop that was captured during the Irish Rebellion of 1641. Another significant ruin is Necarne Castle, which served as a military hospital during WWII. Further afield, explore the impressive Tudor-Gothic Learmount Castle, the ancient stronghold of the O'Neill dynasty at the Hill of The O'Neill, or the unusual Harry Avery's Castle built around 1320.
Are there any ancient or archaeological sites in the area?
Yes, the area features several ancient sites. The Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones include a notable 'Bishops stone' and a bullaun stone with cup-shaped hollows. On the southeast edge of the Sperrin Mountains, you'll find the fascinating Beaghmore Stone Circles, a complex of early Bronze Age megalithic features discovered in the 1940s. Additionally, the Ardboe Cross, a significant 9th or 10th-century Irish High Cross, marks the remains of a 6th-century monastery near Lough Neagh.
What natural attractions or forest areas are there to explore?
For nature lovers, Necarne Forest offers gravel trails through boggy woodland and pasture. Gortin Glen Forest Park, near Omagh, provides woodland trails, opportunities to spot local deer, and a five-mile forest drive with breathtaking views. The vast Sperrins Mountain Range itself is a major natural attraction, known for its peaks, forests, moors, valleys, lakes, and rivers, offering extensive natural beauty.
Are there opportunities for hiking or walking near Tullynincrin?
Absolutely. The Sperrins Mountain Range provides numerous trails, including challenging ascents like Sawel Mountain, the highest peak in the Sperrins. For more accessible walks, Necarne Forest features good gravel trails with low grades. You can find various running and walking routes, including those around Old Castle Archdale and Necarne Castle, by exploring the running trails guide for Tullynincrin.
Can I go cycling around Tullynincrin?
Yes, the region is well-suited for cycling. You can find various routes for different cycling styles. For road cycling, explore options like the Dromare and Omagh loop or the Celtic Crosses Cemetery route, detailed in the road cycling guide for Tullynincrin. If you prefer touring, routes like the Kingfisher Cycle Trail or the Bishop's Stone loop are available in the general cycling guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Tullynincrin?
Many attractions cater to families. The Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings occasionally host exhibitions. Necarne Forest offers easy walks suitable for all ages. The Ulster American Folk Park in Omagh is an outdoor museum with costumed guides and interactive exhibits, while Lissan House near Cookstown features interactive exhibits and an adventure playground. For adrenaline-pumping fun, Todds Leap Activity Center in Ballygawley offers off-road driving and a zip line.
What kind of outdoor activities are available near Tullynincrin?
Beyond hiking and cycling, the region offers a variety of outdoor pursuits. The Sperrins Mountain Range is ideal for rambling and exploring its diverse landscapes. Gortin Glen Forest Park provides opportunities for canoeing and mountain biking. For a unique experience, the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory in Davagh Forest is excellent for stargazing due to its low light pollution. Todds Leap Activity Center also offers adventure sports.
What do visitors enjoy the most about the attractions in Tullynincrin?
Visitors often appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. For instance, the crumbling walls of Old Castle Archdale, perched atop a cliff, allow visitors to imagine life centuries ago. The interesting stones and historical context at Killadeas Priory Church are also highly noted. The peaceful gravel trails of Necarne Forest are enjoyed for their scenic walks.
Are there any attractions related to local heritage or ancestry?
Yes, the region has strong ties to heritage. The Ulster American Folk Park in Omagh tells the story of Irish emigration to the New World. The Hill of The O'Neill in Dungannon was once the stronghold of the powerful O'Neill dynasty, offering insights into the area's history. For those interested in ancestry, the Grant Ancestral Homestead in Ballygawley and the Wilson Ancestral Home near Strabane are linked to former US Presidents.
What is the best time to visit Tullynincrin for outdoor activities?
The best time for outdoor activities in the Tullynincrin area, particularly for hiking and cycling in the Sperrins, is generally during the spring and summer months (April to September). During this period, the weather is milder, and daylight hours are longer, making it more pleasant to explore the natural landscapes and historical sites.
Are there any unique viewpoints or scenic drives in the area?
The Sperrins Road offers cracking views as it carves through the landscape, with Barnes Top and Knockanbane Mountain to the east and Sawel Mountain to the south-east. Sawel Mountain itself, at 678m, provides uninterrupted views across County Londonderry and Tyrone from its summit. Gortin Glen Forest Park also features a five-mile forest drive with breathtaking views.
Most popular routes around Tullynincrin
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