
OM Dark Sky Park Observatory
Discover the cosmos at an International Dark Sky Park, offering unparalleled stargazing, ancient mysteries, and forest adventures.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Darkest skies for stargazing

OM Dark Sky Park Observatory
Best Time
Darkest skies for stargazing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the cosmos at an International Dark Sky Park, offering unparalleled stargazing, ancient mysteries, and forest adventures.
"A fantastic day out combining nature, history, and the wonders of the universe."

Book Stargazing Events 🔭
Advance booking is essential for popular stargazing events and observatory tours.
Dress for the Weather ☁️
Evenings can be cool; bring layers. Clear skies are best, but check forecasts for rain.

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 214 reviews
Website
omdarksky.comHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Star Gazing Giant
Davagh Forest
A unique, art installation giant sculpture nestled in the forest, perfect for a memorable photo op.

Observatory Tour
OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory
Engage with knowledgeable guides and learn about the cosmos through interactive exhibits and telescope viewings.

Beaghmore Stone Circles
Short walk from the park
Explore ancient megalithic monuments with potential astronomical connections, a fascinating historical site.

Boardwalk Trails
Davagh Forest
Enjoy scenic walks on well-maintained boardwalks through the forest, spotting local wildlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Stargazing
Navigating Davagh Forest Roads
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Stargazing Events 🔭
Advance booking is essential for popular stargazing events and observatory tours.
Dress for the Weather ☁️
Evenings can be cool; bring layers. Clear skies are best, but check forecasts for rain.
Drive Carefully on Forest Roads 🚗
Roads are narrow and winding. Drive cautiously, especially during the day.
Explore the Stone Circles 🗿
The boardwalk to Beaghmore Stone Circles is scenic and the site is historically significant.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Stargazing Events 🔭
Advance booking is essential for popular stargazing events and observatory tours.
Dress for the Weather ☁️
Evenings can be cool; bring layers. Clear skies are best, but check forecasts for rain.
Drive Carefully on Forest Roads 🚗
Roads are narrow and winding. Drive cautiously, especially during the day.
Explore the Stone Circles 🗿
The boardwalk to Beaghmore Stone Circles is scenic and the site is historically significant.
Pack a Picnic 🍎
Picnic benches are available, and there's a coffee cart at the stone circles.
Drone Photography Allowed? 🚁
Some visitors use drones, but check park regulations before flying.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise OM Dark Sky Park for its exceptional stargazing opportunities and friendly, knowledgeable staff who enhance the educational experience. The surrounding forest trails and the unique Star Gazing Giant sculpture are also highlights, making it a great family day out. However, some note the challenging access roads and express disappointment with the forest's commercial plantation nature.
"A great spot for a family day out. We did the tour of the observatory, Ciara, our guide, was fantastic. A lovely, warm, friendly lady who was knowledgeable and able to answer all our questions. The other ladies that were on reception were super friendly and welcoming as well which just added to the experience. We done the short (20 minute) trail through the forest and the solar walk to Beaghmore stone circles, (45 mins each way, taking our time to look around). The walk is mostly boardwalk which was lovely and we spotted lots of interesting wildlife. The stone circles at Beaghmore is a well kept site, very interesting and definitely worth the trip. We finished off the afternoon at the park and getting a photo with the star gazing giant. Overall a fantastic day out.
Large free car parks
Toilets at the playpark & observatory
Grab & go snack shop & gift shop at the observatory
Picnic benches
Coffee cart at the stone circles site."
Natasha McMurray
"The most wonderful place for Astronomical education and so much more, with fabulous staff & facilities. Thank you especially to Ciara and Roisin for their warm welcome and amazing knowledge!"
Adam Rory Porter
"This is a nice place to learn a little about the skies, but it is a small site so you won't have much to see in the building. The park comes into its own with all the events it offers: viewing the sky with telescopes once a month; walking tours talking about the stars above us, and so on.
When we visited it was absolutely chucking down so we didn't do any self-guided walks, but I will definitely go back on a nice day to do the walk out to the stones. This would be a fab one to do a walk during the afternoon, visit the centre for a talk and then do one of their night events.
Out of the control of the park, but the roads to get there are atrocious so drive carefully. They are single track roads with a speed limit of 60mph: the local council need to be working to make them 30mph with speed ramps if they want people to visit and be safe. If you go in winter to view night skies too, you will be fine as you will see lights approaching, but be really careful during the day and on lighter nights."
Julia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory is located in Davagh Forest, County Tyrone. Access is via narrow, single-track roads. Visitors are advised to drive cautiously due to the road conditions. Large, free car parks are available on-site.
While the roads are scenic, they are single-track and can be challenging. Drive slowly and be aware of oncoming traffic, especially during daylight hours.
Public transport options are limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car for the most convenient access to the park and surrounding attractions like Beaghmore Stone Circles.
The address is OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory, Davagh Forest, 155 Davagh Road, Omagh BT79 8JQ.
Yes, the 'Star Gazing Giant' sculpture is located within Davagh Forest and is accessible via the park's trails.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the park and forest trails is generally free, including access to the Star Gazing Giant and Beaghmore Stone Circles. However, specific observatory tours and stargazing events may require booking and payment.
The observatory building has specific opening hours, and tours are scheduled. It's best to check the official website or social media for the most up-to-date information on tour times and event schedules.
While the park itself is free, there are often fees associated with guided tours of the observatory and special stargazing events. Prices can vary, so booking in advance is recommended.
Yes, you can visit the park and enjoy the forest walks and the Giant sculpture without booking a specific event. However, to experience the observatory's full offerings, booking a tour or event is advised.
Information on discounts for specific groups or events is usually available on the park's official website. It's worth checking for family packages or special offers.
🎫 ⭐ Stargazing & Astronomy
It's renowned as an International Dark Sky Park, offering exceptional conditions for stargazing away from light pollution. They host educational events and tours.
Yes, OM Dark Sky Park is an excellent location for viewing the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) during solar storms, provided the skies are clear.
The observatory is equipped with telescopes for viewing celestial objects. Special events often include opportunities to look through these telescopes.
Yes, the park offers guided tours that explain the night sky, constellations, and celestial phenomena. These are popular and often require advance booking.
While stargazing is possible year-round, autumn and winter months often offer clearer skies and longer nights. Checking for new moon phases will provide the darkest conditions.
🎫 🌳 Nature & Activities
The park features boardwalk trails through Davagh Forest, making them accessible and pleasant for walking. These trails lead to points of interest like the Beaghmore Stone Circles.
Yes, there are facilities including toilets at the playpark, suggesting it's a family-friendly area.
Absolutely! There are picnic benches available, and a coffee cart is often present at the stone circles site.
Visitors have spotted interesting wildlife along the boardwalk trails. The forest environment supports various native species.
Many visitors find it a great spot for a family day out, combining nature walks, historical sites, and educational opportunities.
📸 📸 Photography
The Star Gazing Giant sculpture, the Beaghmore Stone Circles, and the forest landscapes offer great photographic opportunities. The night sky itself is a prime subject.
Yes, the dark skies make it an ideal location for astrophotography. Many visitors capture stunning images of stars and the Milky Way.
While some visitors have used drones, it's advisable to check the park's specific regulations regarding drone usage before your visit.
Expect to capture unique art installations, ancient stone circles, serene forest scenes, and, with clear skies, breathtaking views of the cosmos.
Many visitors have shared impressive photos taken with mobile phones, indicating that good results are achievable even without professional equipment.









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