About Tullyvar Cottage

The Area | Tyrone & Clogher Valley

History of the area

Tullyvar Cottage is situated on the edge of the Clogher Valley which is steeped in ancient Irish history. The scenic Clogher Valley is often referred to as ‘Carleton Country’, because it was the home of the acclaimed 19th century poet and novelist William Carleton. In a time of the Irish peasant before the Great Famine of the mid 1840’s the area and his surroundings gave Carleton the inspiration for his work.

The Carleton Country Trail is a way marked trail which follows walking and cycling routes, taking in many of the landmarks which have Carleton associations and which allow you to enjoy this beautiful and historical countryside. Clogher is one of the most ancient places in Ireland and was once the capital city of the Principality of Oriel. The most famous of its buildings is the cathedral, in which is preserved the ‘Cloghor’ one of the ‘Three stones of Erin’. Although a monastery stood here in earlier times, (two high crosses still survive) and was followed by a medieval cathedral, the present building dates from the mid 18th century. According to legend, the first bishop of Clogher was St MacCairthinn, the ‘strong man’ of St Patrick.

On the outskirts of neighbouring Ballygawley a breathtaking view can be seen from Errigal Keerogue. Here lie the ruins of St Kieran’s Church with its very early cross. The church is said to date from 1489 and was of Franciscan foundation. In the village of Augher is Spur Royal Castle, a typical plantation castle with an interesting history. Just outside Augher, in pre-Patrick history a hill was given the name of Knockmany, the Hill of Aine, a Pagan Goddess of Love. On the summit, to this day, is a large grave called Knockmany Chambered Cairn on whose stones are carved strange concentric circles. No one is quite sure what these circles represent but some scholars connect them to the religious cult of a Mother Goddess in ancient Syria about 3000BC. Another ancient site situated only a few miles from Tullyvar Cottage and located in the picturesque Favor Royal Forest is St Patricks Chair and Well which is reputed to have mistical powers. Why not visit Tullyvar Cottage and absorb the diverse and interesting history of the Clogher Valley and enjoy the myths and legends.