The bustling metropolis of Cookstown,a town in the very heart of Northern Ireland, isthe perfect place to visit if you want to sample Irish food and drink,traditional Irish hospitality and a chance to shop until you drop.
The fact that Cookstownis located centrally means that it is accessible from all parts of NorthernIreland, being just 48 miles away from Belfast, the capital. Itis a bustling town with all the amenities and facilities this would lead you toexpect, and yet it is still within easy reach of some stunning natural scenery. The dramatic Sperrin Mountainsloom over the town, whilst Drum Manor Forest Parkand the spectacular waters of LoughNeagh are just a short drive away.
Shopping inCookstown
Without doubt, Cookstownis one of the shopping capitals of Northern Ireland,a point which is underlined by the retail presence that dominates Main Street,officially the longest and widest street in Northern Ireland.This 2 mile long stretch runs through the town from north to south and is linedwith shops and businesses of all kinds.
You can find high street retailers, supermarketmegastores and small independent retailers offering traditional Irish goods: theshops in Cookstown provide all the range andchoice you could want. Ample parking and good public transport help to maketravelling to and from the shops easy, no matter where in Cookstownyou’re staying, and on Saturday the town centre is transformed by theappearance of the traditional street market. This has been run in Cookstownsince 1628, and now offers the likes of street entertainment and face paintingalongside a bustling shopping opportunity.
Attractionsaround Cookstown
Once based in Cookstown,you’re within easy reach of virtually every kind of attraction NorthernIreland is famed for offering. From Neolithic monuments in theBroughderg area – including stone circles dating back to 1500 BC – to the water-basedfun of Ballyronan Marina, on the shores of Lough Neagh,Cookstown offers something for everyone. NationalTrust properties and forest walks rub shoulders with a thriving nightlife sceneto provide the comprehensive package for visitors of all ages.
EnjoyingCookstown
If you want to take a short cut to discovering justwhat Cookstown is all about, then take advantageof one of the guided walks on offer from the Tourist Information Centre on BurnsStreet in the centre of town.
When the sun goes down, Cookstowncomes into its own, offering visitors a huge choice of venues for a great nightout and a chance to sample what the locals refer to as ‘the craic’. Fromtraditional Irish pubs to cutting edge night clubs and contemporary boutiquebars, you’re bound to find something which appeals. If you’re looking forsomething more cultured, then head for the The Burnavon Arts andCultural Centre, which offers everything from drama and comedyto live music.
Staying inCookstown
The centrality of Cookstown,its excellent transport links and its wide selection of hotels, help to make ita key destination for everyone from businesses organising conferences tofamilies looking for fun. No matter what your idea of a good time is, Cookstownis bound to be able to provide it.
