Staycation Destinations: Our Guide to Discovering The Best of Tyrone and Fermanagh

Staycation Destinations: Our Guide to Discovering The Best of Tyrone and Fermanagh

Planning a staycation in Northern Ireland? Start by checking into The Tailor’s House in the heart of Ballygawley village County Tyrone where you can enjoy a relaxing stay in a 4* boutique guest room along with the most amazing food and drinks! Not only do we welcome visitors and guests from all over Ireland and beyond, we’ve also hosted Bill Clinton and the US Presidential Party! Now that’s a story we’ll share with you over the finest pint of Guinness!

Although handshakes and hugs are off the table for a while, you can be sure to experience a very warm welcome when you arrive at The Tailor’s House. Enjoy a chat with our team who will be delighted to share with you their local knowledge, stories and recommendations of the best places to explore during your stay with us. We’ve outlined a few destinations below to help you plan your trip:

  1. Todds Leap

For the thrill seekers, head to Todds Leap Activity Centre situated in a beautiful forest not far from The Tailor’s House. With over 20 amazing acitivities including high flying zip lines, off road driving, climbing walls and adrenalin fueled giant swings! So much fun…be sure to check it out!

  1. Cuilcagh Mountain Boardwalk

Known locally as “The Stairway to Heaven Walk”, this offers a fantastic day out as the route route meanders through one of the largest expanses of blanket bog in Northern Ireland, traversing over tracks, boardwalk and staircase. Be aware that a steep climb is required to reach the viewing platform on Cuilcagh Mountain which provides breath taking views of the surrounding low lands! Ideal after a hearty full Irish breakfast at The Tailors House!

  1. Ulster American Folk Park

A superb cultural experience. Immerse yourself in the story of the brave emigrants who made the journey across the Atlantic to America hundreds of years ago.
Wander through the quaint, thatched cottages and log cabins and meet costumed characters who will show you traditional crafts. Enjoy the traditional story telling and if you’re lucky enough you may even get to enjoy some of their traditional baking! With around 30 buildings and museums to explore, this is a unique experience and highly recommended!

  1. Gortin Glens

Gortin Glen Forest Park is located at the western gateway to the Sperrin mountains and consist of 5 waymarked trails of varying lengths that start from the Trailhead close to the main car park. Enjoy the spectacular scenery as the trails take you through the forest paths. Perfect for those who enjoy the great outdoors and hillwalking. 

The Forest Park can also be explored via a five-mile scenic drive which has a number of vista parks that vehicles can pull in to enjoy the magnificent scenery.

  1. Marble Arch Caves

The Marble Arch Caves is host to one of the finest show caves in Europe and provides an incredible day out. Explore the natural underworld of rivers, waterfalls, winding passages and lofty chambers. You will be mesmerised by the stunning cave formations. Guides lead visitors through the caves enabling you to explore the amazing cave features and learn more about their formation. An incredible experience for all the family.

  1. Blessingbourne Mountain Bike Trails

Head towards Fivemiletown and you will find The Blessingbourne Mountain Bike Trails situated in the heart of the Clogher Valley located close to the border between counties Tyrone and Fermanagh. The bike trails are packed with technical features including table tops, rock drops and berms. However, the trails do cater for all ages and abilities and with lots of us getting into cycling during lockdown, this is a great experience to get on your bike and enjoy the fun-filled trails!

  1. US Grant Ancestral Homestead

Ulysses’ great-grandfather was John Simpson born in a farmhouse outside Ballygawley, Co. Tyrone. The original ancestral homestead has been preserved, and is open to visitors all year round. At the age of 22, John Simpson left Northern Ireland, emigrating to Ohio in the United States. In 1833 his first son was born, Hiram Ulysses Grant, the eldest of six children. When Hiram was registering for West Point Military Academy as a recruit, he was mistakenly called Ulysses Simpson Grant, and this became his adopted name. Grant went on to become one a leading General in the American Civil War, accepting the surrender from Confederate General Lee in 1865. After the Civil War, President Andrew Johnson named Ulysses Grant Secretary of War over the newly reunited nation. In 1868, running against Johnson, Ulysses S. Grant was elected the 18th President of the United States. Serving two terms in office, U.S. Grant embarked on a world tour. During his two year tour he was the first President of the United States to visit Ireland and Northern Ireland. 

We hope you find this guide helpful. Please check individual venues / trouist attractions for details of opening hours or restrictions. Following a busy day exploring, enjoy a delicious meal and evening drinks in The Tailors House before relaxing in a warm and comfortable guest room.

We look forward to welcoming you. Should you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact us on 028 8556 8910 or email tailorshouse50@gmail.com.