Locatedin the centre of Northern Ireland, the old market townof Magherafelt sits in County Londonderry betweenthe northwestern shores of LoughNeagh, the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles, and theSperrin Mountains.
Smalland friendly, the town and its surrounds serve up plenty for visitors of allages and interests. Its attractive town centre is clustered around the‘Diamond’— the main square — and is filled with independent shops, high streetnames, restaurants and pubs. Meanwhile just a short distance out of town the SperrinMountains loom invitingly as does a wealth of local history toexplore and a great range activities around Lough Neaghand smaller Lough Beg.
The Best of Magherafelt
Atypical small Northern Irish market town, part of Magherafelt’scharm is its friendly people and welcoming ambience. Take a stroll around thelively Diamond to enjoy the market town atmosphere and amble down ChurchStreet, Broad Street and Rainey Street to discover independent boutiques andshops offering fashions, homewares and locally produced food and other goodies.
Finishyour shopping spree in the Meadowlane Shopping Centre,browsing the big-name retail chains and stores. Then, with your shopping done,head for any of the town’s inviting coffee shops, cafes and restaurants torelax over drinks or a delicious meal.
Asthe day turns to night, head toward the cosy pubs, wine bars and restaurantswhere you can take part in the famous Ulster craic and where a good night outis practically guaranteed.
Attractions in the Magherafelt Area
WithLough Neagh and its smaller sister, LoughBeg, close by, and the beautiful Sperrin Mountains virtually onthe doorstep, the Magherafelt district is a paradisefor visitors who appreciate nature and wide, open spaces.
Ifyou love water, Lough Neagh beckons with anenticing array of activities and sports, from superb coarse and game fishing tomarinas offering boat trips to its central islands such as Rams Island or ConeyIsland. On dry land you can follow thewalking and cycling trails around the lake or go birdwatching in the pristinewetlands and wildlife sanctuaries. If history itself is of more interest thannatural history then a trip to see the Ardboe Cross, a 10th centurymonument carved with religious stories, will provide plenty to fascinate you.
Alternatively,you could enjoy the high life by making tracks for the Sperrin Mountains, thelargest mountain range in Northern Ireland and classed as an Area ofOutstanding Natural Beauty. This expanse of rolling hills, heather-coatedmountains and lush valleys is made for walking, mountain biking and gentlecycling, and it is dotted with outdoor adventure centres offering excitingpursuits such as zip-lining, zorbing and treetop adventures.
Historic Gems Around Magherafelt
Asidefrom the Ardboe Cross, the Magherafelt district isrich with remnants of its ancient and medieval past. You can dig into thearea’s multi-layered history on fascinating heritage walking trails which willtake you to visit 17th century houses and country estates or let youscout out the prehistoric tombs and ancient ruins that still pepper the localwoodlands and countryside.
