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Tour The District
Tour of the District
UNLOCK THE SECRETS AND DISCOVER STRABANE DISTRICT AT THE HEART OF THE SPERRINS
Embracing the charm of quiet country towns and villages, the majestic heights of the Sperrins and the rich river systems of the Foyle, Strabane District represents a truly unspoiled world of scenic beauty. Here, also an abundance of natural history, historic treasures and unique visitor attractions await discovery.
To the West of the district, straddling the border with Donegal, lies the Derg Valley and the traditional travellers stagepost of Castlederg. Here, excellent opportunities abound for angling, cycling, equestrian, and walking enthusiasts alike. The national cycle network's Ballyshannon to Ballycastle route traverses an area rich in Christian heritage, while a variety of designated walking trails have been developed convenient to other rich archaeological sites, such as the Davies Bawn in Castlederg. Castlederg, itself also boasts excellent accommodation, restaurants and its own modern leisure facilities.
Convenient to Castlederg can be found the town of Newtownstewart. Its location is just as perfect as one could wish. Two picturesque and strangely named hills, Bessy Bell and Mary Gray, overlook the town while three miles to the west lies Baronscourt forest and the country seat of the Duke of Abercorn, with its magnificent neo-classical mansion and ornate Italianate style gardens. Newtownstewart also provides the setting for the majestic ruins of the Gaelic stronghold of Harry Avery O'Neill as well as those of the plantation castle of the Stewart family. In recent times, the latter has been the source of a relatively unique archaeological discovery - an intact Bronze Age cist grave. Newtownstewart has also the distinction of being at the confluence of two excellent rivers, the Strule and the Owenkillew, where excellent challenges exist for the game angler. Golfing provision too is a notable strength of the area while the recent addition of Newtownstewart Centre 2000 adds an extra dimension to leisure provision locally.
In the picturesque village of Sion Mills, there also exists excellent opportunities for leisure provision. The village's plentiful water resource, which once sustained a still thriving linen industry, now hosts an idyllic riverside walk as well as excellent angling, while, within a small distance from the village, there are golfing and equestrian opportunities and an opportunity to relax and achieve a deeper sense of physical and mental wellbeing at the Wellbeing Health & Beauty Spa. Moreover, Sion Mills is particularly rich in architectural heritage, with significant features including Zion House, the Church of The Good Shepherd (based on the design of a church at Pistoia, near Florence), the contemporary St. Theresa's Church, the old flax mill, and, collectively, the simple single and two storey cottages built originally to house the mill workers.
Strabane, the civic and economic heart of the district, is a town also rich in heritage. The ancestral home of President Woodrow Wilson is conveniently located nearby (Closed 2008 to facilitate urgent repair work), while on Main Street, nestling behind a unique Georgian façade, can be found another notable historic gem-Gray Printers.Here from April to September the National Trust opens its press room where members of the Gray family once carried out their printing business and which now contains a fascinating collection of 19th Century printing presses.
Alongside its unique heritage , Strabane can also boast one of the most impressive pieces of sculpture in the North-West - the magnificent "Let The Dance Begin" sculpture, and a magnificent Arts & Conference Centre- "The Alley".Finally in terms of leisure provision, Strabane is able to facilitate a wide spectrum of interests and pastimes. Angling, equestrian, golf, and walking opportunities are easily accessed locally, while Riversdale Leisure Centre operates a state of the art facility, with excellent swimming pool provision.
Finally, for many, a visit to the district would not be complete without a tour of the scenic Glenelly Valley and the Sperrins. Hidden away in the heart of Ulster, this tranquil heartland offers a complete taste of rural life and features picturesque walking and cycling routes, peaceful picnic sites and an opportunity to taste a tradition rich in myth and legend. Nearby at Donemana, Barrontop Fun Farm provides a taster of present day farming life while for those interested in tales of nobility and romance, there are the legendary myths of Earlsgift and Altnacree Castles.
In truth, Strabane District is a place where a wealth of opportunities exist for the visitor. It is a place where many stories are to be told and where there are many secrets to be unlocked. Wherever you begin is optional but whatever your pleasure Strabane District welcomes you.
(Please check centre opening times before travelling )
