Overview
Pomeroy Forest and Hills sit a mile outside the historic village of Pomeroy in County Tyrone, occupying 176 hectares of mixed woodland on the Sperrin foothills. The site is marketed as the highest village in Ireland and is open year‑round, inviting families, walkers, runners and anyone with a taste for imagination in the great outdoors. Colour‑coded Magic Trails wind through the forest, punctuated by larger‑than‑life wooden sculptures that bring Irish myth and fairytales to life.
History & Background
The forest’s modern incarnation is the result of a community‑led regeneration project backed by Mid Ulster District Council. Designed to revitalise the surrounding woodlands and give Pomeroy a distinctive outdoor attraction, the project introduced themed trails that blend folklore, contemporary art and ecological education. A contemporary timber‑clad visitor centre was added in recent years, providing a flexible hub for school groups, local events and private functions.
What to See & Do
Trail Network
The trail system is divided into three main routes, each marked by a coloured disc on wooden posts:
| Trail | Colour | Length | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renardine Nursery | Blue | 1 km (0.6 mi) | Easy, fully accessible | Six nursery‑themed sculptures, inclusive play park, smooth surface |
| Renardine Fairytale | Red | 2.2 km (1.4 mi) | Easy with a slight incline | Castle of Pomeroy, Last Unicorn, Children of Lir, panoramic viewing point |
| Grace Drennan Eco | Yellow | ~2 km (varies) | Moderate, gravel | Ecological signage, native flora & fauna, subtle climbs |
Renardine Nursery – The Blue Route
Starting beside the visitor centre, this 1 km circular loop is flat and smooth, perfect for the youngest explorers. Six whimsical sculptures invite tactile interaction – children can climb, sit or pose for photos. The trail finishes back at the car park, passing an inclusive play park with additional equipment for younger visitors.
Renardine Fairytale – The Red Route
Extending to 2.2 km, the Fairytale Trail weaves through 18 larger sculptures, including a miniature Castle of Pomeroy, a towering Last Unicorn, and the Children of Lir statues. A gentle incline appears between the unicorn and the Children of Lir, leading to a panoramic viewing point that frames the surrounding countryside. Colour‑coded discs keep walkers on track, while QR‑coded boards share mythic stories and ecological facts.
Grace Drennan Eco – The Yellow Route
For a more natural experience, the 2‑km Eco Trail follows a coarser gravel surface behind the visitor centre. It offers interpretive signage about local plant species, birdlife and the forest’s ecological management. Slight climbs toward the end reward hikers with broader views of the Sperrin foothills, making it a subtle educational walk for walkers and runners.
Practical Information
Visitor Centre – A timber‑clad building with floor‑to‑ceiling windows houses a flexible multi‑use hall (retractable seating for ~150), two workshop rooms, and a coffee dock (Woodies Café) serving tea, coffee and light snacks.
Amenities – Picnic tables sit in a sheltered courtyard, and accessible toilets include baby‑changing facilities and disabled access. The inclusive play park and smooth surfaces on the blue and red routes make the site family‑friendly.
Official Website – More details, trail maps and event updates can be found on the official page: https://www.visitmidulster.com/things-to-do/pomeroy-forest-and-magic-trails-p908341
Getting There & Parking
Information on car‑park capacity, any fees and public‑transport links should be added here.
Seasonal Highlights
During the festive season the forest is transformed with seasonal decorations and special events, adding an extra layer of magic to the trails.
Nearby Attractions
- Bessy Bell – A popular Sperrin summit walk offering expansive views; a short drive from Pomeroy Forest. [/bessy-bell/]
- Davagh Forest – Another woodland area with marked trails and wildlife spotting opportunities. [/davagh-forest/]
Whether seeking a gentle stroll with toddlers, a myth‑filled walk for the whole family, or a rugged run through native woodland, Pomeroy Forest and Hills offers a uniquely Irish outdoor adventure.