Davagh Forest Dark Skies Loop

Davagh Forest sits in the Sperrin Mountains of County Tyrone, one of Northern Ireland's better-kept walking secrets. This 8 km circuit follows the Davagh Water upstream through mature conifer plantation before the trees thin and the path crosses onto open Sperrin moorland with long views in all directions. The 302 m of climbing is concentrated on the transition from forest to moor, and the contrast between the two environments gives the walk genuine variety. The Sperrins lack the drama of the Mournes and the fame of the Causeway Coast, which means Davagh stays quiet even in peak season. The forest is also designated as a Dark Sky Observatory site, adding an unusual dimension for evening visits.

This is a dog friendly walk that combines two of the best environments for dogs in a single circuit. The river in the forest provides constant water access and the enclosed woodland carries deep, resinous scent that dogs find absorbing, while the open moorland above gives space, wind and the heather-rich terrain that encourages dogs to range and work their noses. Off-lead potential is moderate, with the forest sections and open moor both offering good stretches where livestock are largely absent. The transition between sheltered forest and exposed moor keeps the walk interesting throughout. Best suited to dogs with reasonable fitness for the climbing involved. A walk that rewards with genuine solitude and the kind of untouched landscape that's increasingly hard to find.