Plenty to do and see at Pomeroy’s Magical Forest

An outdoor gym, a well maintained play park for children and some magnificent wood carvings are just some of the attractions which await families and walkers in and around Pomeroy Forest.

Situated just a mile outside the town, the woods have also become widely renowned for its annual Santa’s Magical Forest. Each year, hundreds of children arrive for a visit and to immerse themselves in the Christmas spirit.

At the moment though, the holding of the event this year depends on the government guidance. Nevertheless, there remains plenty of space to socially distance within the forest, for a wander in the fresh autumnal air.

The site is 175 hectares in size and is the former location of a Forestry School, which opened in 1963. Work recently began on a major development as part of the £5 million ‘Connecting Pomeroy’ project.

The Pomeroy Forest element is one of the flagship schemes, and the ambitious enhancement will include a new visitor centre, sensory garden and natural adventure play area around the forest. Whatever about the new developments, Pomeroy Forest is certain to remain a popular location for walkers and runners from both the local area and beyond.

As you enter the forest from the Tandragee Road, look out for the ancestral burial place of the family of the Lowry family, whose Georgian Mansion was located within the forest boundary. No trace of it remains, but there are numerous outhouses which offer a glimpse into what life might have been like in the past. These also offer the perfect location for some of the many activities for children which take place here at Christmas.

The walk itself is relatively easy, mostly flat and relaxing. What’s called the ‘Pomeroy Woodland Trail’ is 3km long and affords the walker or runner the chance to experience the wildlife of the forest up close.

The wooden sculptures located in intervals along the route are also sights to behold. These works of art were designed and created by the children of Pomeroy.

For the more energetic, the outdoor gym equipment provides the opportunity to add an extra dimension to your trip.

Whatever you do, make sure to stop occasionally and take in the sights and sounds of the forest. Populated with mixed deciduous woodland and Scots pine, as well as birch and willow scrub.

Pomeroy Forest has been growing in popularity as an amenity over the past decade, and the numbers visiting are only destined to increase over the coming years. But that doesn’t matter because there’s ample space here for everyone enjoy the great outdoors.