Attractions and Places To See around Drumsonnus - Top 7
Best attractions and places to see around Drumsonnus, a townland in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, include historical sites and natural features. While Drumsonnus itself is known for an ancient henge, the broader County Tyrone offers a diverse range of attractions. This region provides opportunities to explore historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural landscapes.
Best attractions and places to see around Drumsonnus
- The most popular attractions is Necarne Forest, a trail that features good gravel paths through a boggy woodland.โฆ
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones
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Devenish Monastic Site
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Devenish Island Round Tower
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Necarne Castle
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Necarne Forest
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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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Devenish Monastic Site is generally considered to be the most important of Lough Erne's many island church settlements. Devenish was founded in the 6th century by St Molaise. It was raided by Vikings in 837 and burned in 1157, but in the Middle Ages flourished as the site of a parish church and St Mary's Augustinian Priory. There are extensive low earthworks on the hillside, but the earliest buildings are St Molaise's House (a very small church) and the fine round tower close by, both with striking Romanesque decorations from the 12th century. Teampull Mรณr, the lower church, dates from the early 13th century and has a beautifully moulded south window. It was extended to the east in about 1300, while later additions include a residential wing to the north and the Maguire Chapel to the south, with 17th century heraldic slabs. St Mary's Augustinian Priory on the hilltop dates from the middle 15th and early 16th centuries, with church, tower and small north cloister. In its graveyard stands an unusual, intricately-carved cross of the middle 15th century. - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devenish_Island - https://web.archive.org/web/20120224043140/http://www.culturenorthernireland.org/article.aspx?art_id=746
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Founded by Saint Laisrรฉn mac Nad Froรญch (aka St Molaise) in the 6th century, the monastic site was built on a pilgrimage route to Croagh Patrick. As you view the Island from Trory Pier you can see the 25 metre tall 12th century round tower standing majestically above the ruined buildings. The tower has wooden floors and can be climbed by the public via a series of ladders. The tower is decorated with 12th century romanesque features, the most unusual feature is a beaded cornice running around the top of tower with head sculpture featured above the bell-storey windows. - http://www.megalithicireland.com/Devenish%20Round%20Tower.html - https://archive.ph/20121224010315/http://www.ni-environment.gov.uk/places/monuments/devenish.shtml#selection-1091.0-1091.30
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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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The route is only for walking, not much sightseeing, very interesting horse farm. Free parking.
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The Necarne Castle equestrian park includes 200 acres of mixed use land. The walk through these woods features good gravel trails with low grades in a boggy woodland. Continuing will take you through pasture to the castle itself.
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Once called Irvine Castle, hence the town of Irvinestown, it is now a ruin closed to urban explorers, including cctv. It was in use as late as WWII, when it was a military hospital, but it has since lost its roof and been overtaken by plant life.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore near Drumsonnus?
Beyond the ancient henge in Drumsonnus, County Tyrone is rich in history. You can visit the Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones, featuring notable stones like the Bishops stone and a large slab with cup-shaped hollows. Another significant site is the Devenish Monastic Site, founded in the 6th century, which includes the impressive Devenish Island Round Tower. Further afield, explore the Hill of The O'Neill & Ranfurly House in Dungannon, the Ulster American Folk Park in Omagh, or the Grant Ancestral Homestead in Ballygawley.
Are there any significant natural features or parks to visit around Drumsonnus?
Yes, the region offers diverse natural beauty. The Sperrin Mountains, Ireland's largest mountain range, provide a stunning landscape of peaks, forests, and valleys. Within the Sperrins, you'll find Gortin Glen Forest Park with woodland trails and opportunities for canoeing on its lakes. Necarne Forest offers good gravel paths through a boggy woodland, part of the Necarne Castle equestrian park.
What outdoor activities are available in the Drumsonnus area?
The area around Drumsonnus is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy hiking and running on various trails. Mountain biking is popular, especially at Davagh Forest and Blessingbourne Mountain Bike Trails. Canoeing is available at Gortin Glen Lakes, and horse riding can be found at Forest Stables in Fivemiletown. For more adventurous activities, Todds Leap offers options like Blindfold Land Rover Driving and body zorbing.
Are there family-friendly attractions near Drumsonnus?
Yes, several attractions cater to families. The Ulster American Folk Park in Omagh offers an immersive experience with historical buildings and costumed characters. Gortin Glen Forest Park provides woodland trails suitable for family walks and wildlife spotting. Necarne Forest is also considered family-friendly with its accessible gravel trails.
Where can I find hiking trails near Drumsonnus?
There are several hiking opportunities around Drumsonnus. You can explore trails in Necarne Forest, which features good gravel paths. Other options include Gortin Glen Forest Park and the broader Sperrin Mountains. For specific routes, check out the Hiking around Drumsonnus guide, which includes routes like 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle' and 'Rossmore Point Beacon โ Old Castle Archdale loop'.
Are there easy or beginner-friendly walks around Drumsonnus?
Yes, several easy walking options are available. Necarne Forest offers easy gravel trails with low grades. The Hiking around Drumsonnus guide lists easy routes such as 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle' (5.2 km) and 'Necarne Castle (Castle Irvine) โ Necarne Castle loop' (4.3 km).
What are some unique cultural experiences near Drumsonnus?
For a deep dive into local culture, visit the Ulster American Folk Park in Omagh, which tells the story of Irish emigration. An Creagรกn Visitor Centre, at the foothills of the Sperrins, offers an immersive experience into traditional rural Irish life with stone cottages and craft workshops. The Strule Arts Centre in Omagh also hosts various performances and exhibitions.
Can I find any ancient monuments or archaeological sites in the region?
Absolutely. Drumsonnus itself is known for an ancient henge. Nearby, you can visit the Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones, which includes ancient bullaun stones. The Beaghmore Stones are an archaeological complex from the Bronze Age featuring seven stone circles. Knockmany Passage Grave is another ancient tomb worth exploring.
What is the best time of year to visit Drumsonnus and the surrounding area?
The best time to visit Drumsonnus and County Tyrone generally depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer (April to September) offer milder weather, longer daylight hours, and are ideal for hiking, cycling, and exploring outdoor attractions. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can be cold but offers a different, quieter charm for those prepared for the weather.
Are there any dog-friendly walking options near Drumsonnus?
Many of the natural parks and forest trails in County Tyrone are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. Necarne Forest, with its gravel paths, is generally suitable for walks with dogs. Always check specific park regulations before visiting.
What kind of wildlife might I spot on trails near Drumsonnus?
When exploring the natural areas around Drumsonnus, such as Gortin Glen Forest Park or the Sperrin Mountains, you might spot various wildlife. Deer are common in Gortin Glen. The region's forests and wetlands are home to numerous bird species, and if you're lucky, you might encounter smaller mammals like badgers or foxes.
Are there mountain biking opportunities near Drumsonnus?
Yes, the area is well-regarded for mountain biking. Davagh Forest, near Cookstown, offers a range of trails, including a challenging 16km red trail and family-friendly options. Blessingbourne Mountain Bike Trails near Fivemiletown also provide technical and fun trails for various skill levels.
Most popular routes around Drumsonnus
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