2022-2032 Vistitor Experience Development Plan

Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh 2.3 Omagh and The Sperrins 16 Fermanagh Lakelands & Omagh and The Sperrins About The Sperrins is one of the largest upland areas of Ireland and covers an area of 1181km2. Designated in 2008 under the Nature Conservation and Amenity Lands (NI) Order 1985 and lying in the heart of Northern Ireland, the Sperrin AONB encompasses a largely mountainous area of great geological complexity. Stretching from the Strule Valley in the west to the perimeter of the Lough Neagh lowlands in the east, this area presents vast expanses of moorland penetrated by narrow glens and deep valleys. In its south, the Burren area is noted for its lakes, sandy eskers and other glacial features. The area is rich in historic and archaeological heritage and folklore. The area is known to be of great geological complexity with an abundance of natural tourism resources, such as lakes, rivers, valleys and forests. It is attractive for a wide range of outdoor activities including cycling, mountain biking, walking and fishing to name but a few. Only 25% of The Sperrins falls within the Fermanagh and Omagh District Council area (known as the South Sperrins), with the rest sitting across Derry City and Strabane, Causeway Coast and Glens and Mid Ulster council areas. Key attractions The main attractions in the South Sperrins area are the Ulster American Folk Park (UAFP), An Creagán, Gortin Glen Forest Park and Gortin Lakes and Boorin Nature Reserve alongside a wealth of megalithic features. The UAFP is an open air museum that offers the visitor a journey back in time from the OldWorld of Ulster to the NewWorld on the American frontier. It is managed by National Museums Northern Ireland and attracted over 112,000 people in 2019. An Creagán is also a hub for visitors and is the 6th highest in the district in terms of visitor numbers attracting 59,800 in 2019. Gortin Glen Forest Park is a popular local destination and offers a range of walks, activities and viewpoints. It has benefited from recent investment for a destination playpark, mountain bike trails, walking trails, equestrian trails and cafe facilities. An Creagán