Top 3 Lakes around Killycurragh

For scenic walks, Oak Lough offers a footpath through heathland and wildflowers with views of rolling hills. New Lough also features a picturesque footpath around its still waters, surrounded by the stunning Sperrins landscape. Further afield, Lough Fea provides a popular 4.15km circular walkway with panoramic views of the water and Sperrin Mountains.

Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Oak Lough and New Lough both have easy footpaths. Omagh Boating Lake is a pleasant spot where children can enjoy watching local ducks. Lough Fea is also very family-friendly, offering a children's play area, picnic facilities, and public toilets alongside its accessible circular walk.

The lakes around Killycurragh are rich in wildlife. Lough Fea, nestled in the Sperrins, is excellent for birdwatching, especially during early morning or late evening strolls in autumn. Lough Neagh, being the largest freshwater lake, is a significant habitat for overwintering waterfowl like whooper swans, tufted ducks, and pochards, and its wetlands support diverse plant life. Lower Lough Erne is home to various bird species, including herons, kingfishers, and even the rare white-tailed eagle.

Yes, angling is a popular activity. Lough Fea is known for rainbow trout, brown trout, and northern pike; day permits and rod licenses are required. Carrick Lough is primarily a coarse angling venue, containing good numbers of roach, bream, tench, perch, and pike, with access via a timber boardwalk. Lough Neagh and Lower Lough Erne also offer rich fish populations, including trout, salmon, and pike.

Parking is generally available at the more popular lakes. For instance, Oak Lough provides car parking. Lough Fea also has dedicated parking facilities, making it convenient for visitors.

The lakes offer beauty year-round. Autumn is particularly good for birdwatching at Lough Fea. Generally, spring and summer provide pleasant weather for walking, boating, and other outdoor activities. However, the serene landscapes can be enjoyed in any season, with each offering a unique experience.

Many trails are dog-friendly, but it's important to check specific regulations. For example, the circular walkway around Lough Fea allows dogs, but they must be kept on leads due to the presence of ground-nesting birds.

Lower Lough Erne is rich in history, featuring ancient monuments and historic sites. Devenish Island, accessible by boat, houses the ruins of a 6th-century monastic settlement with a well-preserved round tower. Castle Archdale Forest and Country Park, which played a significant role during WWII, also offers historical insights. Lough Neagh has a rich history and is central to local mythology, with legends of giants and a long-standing eel fishing industry.

Beyond walking, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find cycling routes, including options for touring and road cycling, such as the 'Fintona loop from Omagh' or 'Carrickmore and Sixmilecross loop from Omagh'. There are also running trails, like the 'Omagh Boating Lake loop'. For more details on these activities, you can explore the cycling, running, and road cycling guides for Killycurragh.

The circular walkway around Lough Fea is well-maintained and flat, making it suitable for all ages and abilities, which often includes visitors with limited mobility. It's a gravel path, providing a relatively smooth surface.

For more detailed information about Lough Fea, including angling permits and current conditions, you can visit the Visit Mid Ulster website. Angling permits and rod licenses for Lough Fea can typically be obtained from the Cookstown Tourist Information Centre.