Barnes Gap offers brilliant views and stunning walks

The Sperrin Mountains offer many opportunities to combine stunning scenery with walks for all abilities.

Barnes Gap near Plumbridge ranks among the very best, offering panoramic views of the immediate countryside as well as vistas stretching across West Tyrone and even further beyond.

Five miles outside Plumbridge, the car park at Mullaghbane Road in the Lower Barnes area offers the ideal starting point. The information boards there give you a detailed description of the so-called Craignamaddy Circuit, which takes in Barnes Gap. Starting from the second road on the right just yards away, you aren’t long walking before the spectacular scenery and landscape becomes apparent.

The climb up the nearby Craignamaddy Hill, also known as ‘rock of the wild dogs’ is steep and challenging, but the Dart and Sawel summits are within sight while Plumbridge lies to the west of the valley.

The cutting of Barnes Gap is glacial in origin and spectacular.

It was interesting to read that meltwater drained from a large lake which filled the Owenkillew Valley and cut its way through the landscape.

On this walk, take time to drink in the winding and twisting roads stretching into the distance. Or alternatively, take a moment to simply stand and admire. There’s little to no traffic, apart from the occasional tractor, and the windswept country road is an oasis of calm.

This area is steeped in history and the man-made features are also impressive. Abandoned homes offer a glimpse into the area’s past, and the distinctive stone pillars and traditional cottages are also impressive features of the area.

With amazing scenery, in any weather, this dander is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of every day life.

The route stretches for miles, and the information boards offer all you need to know about what to expect. But you can always pick your own pace and route along the quiet Mullaghbane and Magherabrack Roads.
The overall route is part of the Ulster Way and the International Appalachian Trail for Ulster and Ireland. The Craignamaddy Circuit, in total, stretches for about 12.5 miles.

Whatever you decide to do, though, make sure and enjoy this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the heart of the Sperrin Mountains.