Sperrins

The Sperrins are an upland range of hills and moorland in Northern Ireland, mainly occupying parts of counties Tyrone and Londonderry. The range is noted for its rounded summits, blanket bog and glaciated valleys.

The area offers walking and hill-country recreation across heather moor, peatland and glens, with panoramic views from the higher summits. Wildlife includes upland bird species and typical Atlantic peatland flora.

The Sperrins’ present landforms were shaped by Pleistocene glaciation and subsequent peatland development; human activity has included pastoral farming, peat cutting and scattered rural settlement for centuries. Traditional land uses persist alongside conservation measures.

The Sperrins span central and northern parts of Northern Ireland, principally within counties Tyrone and Londonderry, forming a distinct upland zone in the province’s interior.

• Highest point: Sawel Mountain is the highest point in the range at 678 metres, providing the principal summit objective for walkers in the area.

• Aim for clear weather and early morning for the best views and photography across the Sperrins; the range's open moorland means conditions change quickly, so check forecasts before setting out.
• Use established access points such as Gortin Glen Forest Park and marked trails rather than striking out across open bog-signage and paths give safer routes and better viewpoints.
• Take a map and GPS and allow extra time for navigation in poor visibility; many visitors miss the fine-grained geology and blanket bog habitats that are best appreciated on quieter upland walks.