Overview
Set on the rolling foothills of the Sperrins, Pomeroy Forest and Hills Trails covers 176 hectares of mixed native and broadleaf woodland. Located just a mile from the village of Pomeroy in County Tyrone, the site has grown from a community-led regeneration project into a dedicated outdoor space that blends ecology, contemporary art, and Irish storytelling. Open year-round and free to enter, the forest is designed as a living playground where visitors can walk, run, or simply pause among the trees.
The landscape here is part of the wider Sperrin Mountains & AONB, offering a quieter, more accessible introduction to the region’s terrain. Rather than focusing solely on long-distance hiking, the forest uses themed routes to draw people into the woods. Colour-coded waymarkers, interpretive panels, and large-scale timber sculptures guide visitors through the canopy, making it a particularly strong destination for families, school groups, and casual walkers.
The Magic Trails
The woodland is threaded with three distinct loops, each identified by a coloured disc on wooden posts. You can tackle them individually or link them together for a longer outing.
Renardine Nursery – Blue Route (1 km)
This flat, smooth circular path starts right beside the car park and is built for young children and those who prefer fully accessible terrain. Along the way, you’ll encounter six tactile sculptures designed for climbing, sitting, and photo opportunities. The trail loops back past an inclusive play park, making it a reliable choice for a short, stress-free woodland visit.
Renardine Fairytale – Red Route (2.2 km)
The most popular route, the Fairytale Trail weaves through eighteen larger installations that draw on Irish mythology and classic tales. Look out for a miniature Castle of Pomeroy, a towering Last Unicorn, and a sculptural interpretation of the Children of Lir. A gentle incline appears midway, leading to a cleared viewing point that opens up to the surrounding farmland and distant hills. Information boards along the path use QR codes to share the folklore behind each piece, alongside notes on local tree species and woodland management.
Grace Drennan Eco Trail – Yellow Route (~2 km)
For a more grounded, natural experience, the Eco Trail follows a coarser gravel path that branches off behind the visitor centre. This route prioritises ecology over art, with signage focused on native flora, birdlife, and the forest’s conservation work. The path features subtle climbs that reward hikers with wider sightlines across the Sperrin foothills, making it a solid option for runners and walkers who prefer a quieter, less sculpted environment.
Visitor Centre & Facilities
At the heart of the site stands a contemporary timber-clad visitor centre, designed to function as both a community hub and a visitor base. The building features floor-to-ceiling glazing that frames the woodland, a multi-use hall with retractable seating, and dedicated workshop spaces.
During the summer months (July to August), the Woodies Café operates on-site, serving tea, coffee, and light snacks. Year-round, you’ll find sheltered picnic tables in the courtyard, accessible toilets with baby-changing facilities, and clear signage throughout the grounds. The centre also hosts local events and school programmes, reflecting the site’s original goal of reconnecting the local community with its surrounding landscape.
Practical Tips
- Parking: A free car park is located directly opposite the visitor centre entrance. Arriving early on weekends helps secure a spot closer to the trailheads.
- Footwear: The blue and red routes are smooth and manageable in trainers, but the yellow eco trail’s gravel surface can become muddy after rain. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended if you plan to link all three routes.
- Best time to visit: The forest is open year-round, but the café only runs in July and August. Winter visits offer a quieter atmosphere, while spring brings new leaf growth and active birdlife to the canopy.
- Getting there: The site is signposted from the main road leading out of Pomeroy village. There is no direct regular bus service, so driving or cycling is the most reliable option.
Explore Further in the Sperrins
If you have time to extend your day, the wider region offers several complementary outdoor experiences:
- Bessy Bell – A well-known Sperrin summit walk that rewards the climb with sweeping panoramic views across County Tyrone and beyond.
- Davagh Forest – A larger woodland complex further south, featuring marked trails, a wildlife centre, and a network of riverside paths.
- Sperrin Mountains & AONB – The broader landscape area that encompasses Pomeroy Forest, offering everything from quiet valley walks to challenging peak bagging.
Pomeroy Forest works best as a relaxed half-day stop. Arrive with a packed lunch for the courtyard tables, follow the colour markers at your own pace, and use the QR codes to hear the stories behind the sculptures before you head back to your car.