Maps Note: all maps below expand to a larger version.
Description
This wood is set in the grounds of “Learmount Castle”, a former Gothic Victorian grand house. It is bounded on the north side by the upper reaches of the meandering River Faughan. Its previous uses include a girls school and a Youth Hostel. Today the house is derelict but privately owned and its outbuildings have been converted for residential use. The rest of the estate is managed by the NI Forestry Service and there is a small network of paths and tracks. The route along the river bank is particularly attractive.
The area is suitable for very simple orienteering on the basic track network or for more advanced orienteering using the much rougher terrain to the west of the map.
Parking and Access
Learmount Forest is well off the beaten track in the heart of the beautiful Sperrin foothills, beside the small village of Park. The journey there is a treat in itself. The best parking is at the Park Community Centre on the edge of the forest.
If approaching on the A6 from Dungiven take the B74 *(signposted Feeny / Park) just outside the town. After 2 miles turn left on the B44 (signposted Park) and follow for 5.5 miles to Park. Turn left at the bridge in Park onto the Learmount Road – the entrance to the Community Centre car park is 1/3 of a mile on the right (signposted “School Lane”) immediately before the speed limit end sign.
If approaching from Claudy, drive through the centre of the town on the B49 (signposted Donemana) to the T junction just outside the town. Turn left here onto the Learmount Road (Signposted Park) and follow for 4 miles. Immediately after passing the Park 30 mile speed limit sign turn left into the Community Centre access road (signposted “School Lane”).
Map
Postcode Note: A postcode / street name and number are provided below to assist Sat Nav users. Please note that forests, mountains and car parks do not have postcodes – the code given will normally relate to a residential property which may be some distance from the parking. Please use Sat Nav in conjunction with the maps provided to find your actual destination!
Google Map
Address
197 Learmount Road
Park
BT47 4BB