Gortin Glen Forest Park

What You'll Find

Gortin Glen Forest Park is one of those places where you could easily spend the whole day with the kids! Set in the beautiful Sperrin Mountains, just outside Omagh, there's so much more here than just a woodland walk.

One of the biggest attractions for families is the fantastic play area. There are actually two modern playgrounds connected by a bridge, with plenty to keep children of different ages entertained.

You'll find climbing nets, slides, swings, pod swings, an in-ground trampoline and sensory play panels. It's a brilliant spot for letting the wee ones burn off some energy, and you could easily spend a good while here before even thinking about exploring the forest.

But I'd definitely recommend making time for one of the walking trails too!

There are five colour-coded trails starting and finishing at the main car park, with different distances and difficulty levels depending on how adventurous you're feeling.

On our visit, we explored the Park Trail, which is just under a mile long and a lovely option for families with younger children.

This route takes you through the woodland, past wooden bridges, a trim trail and a deer enclosure where the children can look out for the animals. It's one of the gentler walks and the better option if you're bringing a buggy, although some surfaces may still be uneven.

We also tried the Grey Trail, known as the Pollan Trail, which is just over a mile long.

This one is a little more challenging, with some moderately steep sections, but there's a beautiful waterfall beside the Pollan Burn to discover along the way. It's a lovely reward for those little legs!

If your family enjoys a bigger adventure, there are longer walking routes through the forest too.

And don't forget to look out for the Giant of the Sperrins sculpture! It's another lovely landmark to discover and makes a great photo stop.

One thing I really like about Gortin Glen is that you don't have to walk miles to enjoy the scenery.

There's also a five-mile scenic drive through the forest, with beautiful views across the surrounding mountains. It's a great option if the children are tired after the playground or you want to see more of the area without another long walk.

Between the playgrounds, forest trails, wildlife, waterfall and mountain views, Gortin Glen is a brilliant family day out with plenty to keep everyone entertained.

Wee Ones Will Love...

• ✓Exploring the two connected playgrounds with slides, climbing nets and swings
• ✓Bouncing on the in-ground trampoline and trying the sensory play equipment
• ✓Crossing wooden bridges and looking out for deer along the Park Trail
• ✓Discovering the waterfall on the Pollan Trail
• ✓Finding the Giant of the Sperrins sculpture and enjoying the mountain views

Before You Visit

Gortin Glen Forest Park is located just outside Omagh in County Tyrone, within the Sperrin Mountains.

There are five colour-coded walking trails starting from the main car park, ranging from gentler woodland walks to more challenging routes.

The Park Trail is just under a mile and is one of the easier options for families with younger children and buggies, although surfaces can be uneven in places.

The Grey/Pollan Trail is just over a mile and includes moderately steep sections, so it's better suited to confident little walkers.

The forest has a five-mile scenic drive, although it's worth checking current access arrangements before travelling.

Parking and facilities are available around the main visitor area, but check current charges and opening arrangements before visiting.

Café availability can vary, so check whether Brie's Barista is operating if you're planning to buy refreshments.

Sturdy footwear is recommended for the walking trails, particularly after wet weather.

⭐ Wee Adventurers Top Tips

• ⭐Don't rush straight off on a walk! The two playgrounds are fantastic, so allow plenty of time for the children to enjoy them.
• ⭐If you're visiting with younger children or a buggy, I'd recommend starting with the Park Trail. It's a lovely manageable walk with wooden bridges and the chance to spot deer.
• ⭐Fancy something a little more adventurous? Try the Pollan Trail and look out for the waterfall along the way. Just be prepared for some steeper sections.
• ⭐Save the scenic drive for the end of your visit. It's a lovely way to enjoy more of the Sperrin Mountains when those little legs have had enough.
• ⭐Pack a picnic or check whether Brie's Barista is open before travelling, especially if you're planning to spend the whole day exploring.
• ⭐Looking for another adventure nearby? Gortin village is a handy stop afterwards, or you could explore more of the Sperrins with a visit to the Ulster American Folk Park near Omagh.