Drum Manor Forest Park and House

Overview

Drum Manor Forest Park and House lies on the southern foothills of the Sperrin Mountains, a short three‑mile drive west of Cookstown and a few kilometres west of Lough Neagh. The demesne covers roughly 300 hectares (about 197 acres) of mixed‑woodland, ornamental gardens and historic ruins, making it one of County Tyrone’s most‑visited outdoor attractions. A large, free‑entry car park sits at the heart of the site, with toilets, fresh‑water points and a visitor information board. The forest is open year‑round from 10 am until sunset; a modest entry charge may apply to certain facilities (see Practical Information).

History / Background

The estate began life in the late 18th century as Oaklands, the seat of the Richardson family. In 1829 a modest early‑Victorian manor was built for Major Richardson Brady. The house was dramatically remodelled and extended in 1869 by Belfast architect William Hastings, who added a four‑storey castellated tower, a balustraded terrace and a screen wall with a dated gateway (1876). Renamed Drum Manor, it became the home of the Close family until the Northern Ireland Forest Service purchased the land in 1964.

After acquisition the manor fell into disrepair and was partially demolished in 1975. The surviving ground‑floor walls, tower and terrace were deliberately incorporated into a Japanese‑style garden, creating a striking juxtaposition of ruin and cultivated landscape. The walled garden was replanted from 1977 and now serves as a butterfly habitat. The surrounding arboretum retains rare specimens such as Blue Atlas Cedars, mature yew avenues and a record‑breaking Western Hemlock.

In early 2025 the park suffered significant damage during Storms Darragh, Eowyn and Herminia, with several century‑old trees lost. Ongoing restoration work focuses on public safety and the preservation of the remaining woodland.

What to See & Do

Ruins & Architectural Features

• Tower and Manor Ruins – The four‑storey tower with octagonal stair turret, surviving ground‑floor walls and balustraded terrace provide dramatic photo opportunities, especially at sunrise.
• Balustraded Terrace – Offers panoramic views over the gardens and lake.

Gardens & Water‑Features

• Japanese Garden – Nestled within the ruins, it features stone lanterns, subtle water elements and carefully placed plantings.
• Butterfly Garden – A walled garden of geometric box‑ed beds that attracts native butterflies and moths from May to September.
• Arboretum & Rare Trees – Blue Atlas Cedars, yew avenues, a notable Western Hemlock and other exotic specimens.
• Ponds & Lakes – A pre‑1830 fishpond and a later 1870s wild‑fowl lake add tranquil water‑edge interest.

Trails

All trails start and finish at the main car park and are way‑marked for walkers of all abilities.

Additional Facilities

• Mountain‑bike trails and a children’s playground.
• Campsite for overnight stays.
• Picnic areas and fresh‑water points throughout the park.

Wildlife & Seasonal Highlights

The park’s varied habitats support a range of wildlife. The butterfly‑friendly walled garden sees species such as the Peacock and Comma butterflies during the summer months. Woodlands provide shelter for red squirrels, songbirds (including blackbirds, robins and chiffchaffs), and occasional peregrine falcons hunting over the lake. Autumn brings a spectacular display of colour as the arboretum’s maples and oaks turn gold and amber.

Nearby Attractions

While exploring Drum Manor, consider visiting other points of interest in County Tyrone:

• Baronscourt – The grand 18th‑century estate of the Duke of Abercorn, set in extensive parkland.
• Bessy Bell – A popular Sperrin summit walk offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
• Glenelly Valley – The longest valley in the Sperrin range, ideal for hiking and cycling.
• Cookstown – A vibrant market town with historic buildings, shops and eateries.

Practical Information

• Location: A505 Cookstown‑to‑Omagh road, 3 mi west of Cookstown, County Tyrone.
• Opening hours: 10 am – sunset, year‑round.
• Entry fee: Generally free; a modest charge may apply to certain amenities (check the visitor board).
• Parking: Large free car park adjacent to the visitor centre.
• Facilities: Toilets, fresh‑water points, playground, campsite, mountain‑bike trailheads.
• Accessibility: Main car park and several short, level paths are wheelchair‑friendly; some trail sections are uneven.
• Contact: Visitor information board on site; further details at the Forest Service website.