Parkanaur Forest Park

It is possible to sight buzzards, treecreepers and blackcaps. While in the spring time the forest floor is awash with bluebells. Other parts of the trails take in woodland stands include trees grown specifically for their timber and includes pines, spruces, oaks and larches. Another path takes the visitor to St. Patrick’s Well. 

As an old estate Parkanaur has several impressive and unusual specimen trees (both broadleaved and coniferous).  Tree species include 400 year old oaks, beeches and pines as well other magnificent specimens collected from all over the world centred in the arboretum (collection of exotic tress). Parkanaur is of particular interest to conservationists because it is being developed mainly as an oak forest - something which cannot be done on the upland forests with their unsuitable weather and peaty soils.  The Torrent River runs through the forest and this can be spectacular in times of flood. There are the occasional sightings of otter and dippers. While part of the river forms a pond that attracts ducks.

The white fallow deer in the deer park are most attractive.  There are usually between 20 and 25 in number. These are the descendants from a pair that were sent by Queen Elizabeth I to her niece at Mallow Castle in County Countyk as a wedding gift. This herd have been in Parkanaur Forest since the mid 70’s at the instigation of the Forest Service. Members of the public are welcome to walk through the deer enclosure by a designated path. Some caution may be necessary during the rutting season (October).

The forest has been developed on the Parkanaur estate, formerly owned by the Burtgess family.  Their large Victorian house is still standing and is in use.  The forest also has a horticultural college which is situated in Parkanaur House and the Speedwell Trust operate an environmental education programme for school children, also form part of the house.

The walled garden is a grade B listed building. This includes the potting shed, conservatory, gates and walls. Due to renovation work this is not open to the public.

For a comprhensive history of the estate (and details of room hire) visit the Parkanaur Manor Website. The House itself has rooms available for hire suitable for weddings, functions, mini-conferences, small parties and buffets.

Parkanaur is located only 4 miles from the end of the M1 towards Ballygawley. From Dungannon take the A29 to reach the M1 Roundabout at Stangmore.  On the roundabout take the A4 towards Omagh.  Travel on this road for 4 miles until you see a signpost for Parkanaur.  Follow the signposts to the forest park. 

From Pomeroy head for Donagmore and onto Castlecaulfield.  Drive straight through Castlecaulfield and you will find Parkanaur Forest Park 1 mile ahead on the right hand side.

Parkanaur is open all year round for day visitors. The Park’s camping and caravan facilities are also opened all year round as part of the Touring the Trees scheme.

Caravans are permitted in Parkanaur only as part of the Touring the Trees scheme that is run by the Forest Service. In order to camp at Parkanaur the caravanner must pre-purchase an annual season permit from the Forest Service.  This permit allows caravanning in any of the 11 Touring the Trees sites throughout the year. For more information from the Forest Service on the 'Touring the Trees' scheme or to download an application form please click here.