Bunmore [Bunmore West] [An Bun Mor]
Good walks are even better shared.
Overview
Bunmore [Bunmore West] [An Bun Mor]
Overview
Nestled in the stunning Sperrin Mountains of Northern Ireland, Bunmore West stands proudly at 608 meters above sea level. This Marilyn offers weary hikers a rewarding challenge with its moderate trails and spectacular views.
Geology
The landscape here tells a fascinating story, shaped by Old Red Sandstone that has created a variety of terrains. The undulating land is not just a feast for the eyes but also supports diverse wildlife that thrives in the rich soils.
Routes
The Bunmore Trail beckons hikers from the eastern side. Spanning approximately 5 km and taking around 2.5 hours to complete, this route is well-marked and passes through idyllic countryside making it suitable for most hikers, provided they can tackle a bit of boggy ground.
Summit Features
At the summit, you can't miss the impressive stone cairn—an ideal backdrop for that summit selfie! Don't forget to take in the views of Lough Neagh and the lush rolling hills.
Terrain
Expect a mix of grassy slopes interspersed with rocky outcrops; remember, the ground can get a bit squishy in spots, so sturdy footwear is essential.
Views
The vistas are nothing short of breathtaking. On clear days, marvel at the Donegal coastline and sweeping hills stretching out in every direction. Late spring to early autumn is when the views are truly at their peak, but winter offers some stunning scenes of its own.
Hazards
Be mindful of the whims of Mother Nature—weather changes can be rapid. Ensure you're prepared with the right gear and check forecasts ahead of your adventure.
Access
To reach Bunmore, park at the layby on the B41 road coordinates F812115. Make sure to bring your hiking snacks as the nearest town, Magherafelt, is a short 12 km away but has all the amenities you might need.
Facilities
While the summit itself has no facilities, Magherafelt offers cafes, restrooms, and restaurants post-hike—perfect for indulging after a day spent conquering the trails.
History
The name 'An Bun Mor' means 'the big mound' in Irish, hinting at its significant presence in the landscape. The area is replete with archaeological sites that offer a glimpse into the lives of those who walked these paths long before us.
So, gear up and hit the trails—Bunmore awaits with open arms and impressive views!
Explore routes near Bunmore [Bunmore West] [An Bun Mor]
Public walks starting within 80 km of this hill. Nearby does not mean a route reaches the summit; check its map and access before setting out.
No public routes are currently listed within 80 km of Bunmore [Bunmore West] [An Bun Mor] on Walkmates. This does not mean there are no paths here. Explore the map and check local access information before planning a walk.
Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches, not verified navigable routes or permission to cross land. Check current paths, local access rules and conditions before setting out.
Bunmore Trail
A well-marked trail starting from the eastern side leading to the summit, perfect for both novices and seasoned hikers.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
243m
797 ft
Prominence
204m
Coordinates
54.0391, -9.8106
F814115
OS Map
22
At the Summit
The summit is crowned with a picturesque stone cairn that offers a perfect photo opportunity, alongside panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Terrain & Geology
The Sperrin Mountains are primarily composed of Old Red Sandstone, which has weathered to form rich soils and steep terrains. This geology contributes to the diverse flora and fauna found in the area.
Views & Scenery
Panoramic views of the Donegal coastline, Lough Neagh, and the rolling hills of the Sperrin Mountains.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'An Bun Mor' translates to 'the big mound' in Irish, pointing to its prominent stature in the region.
Historical Significance
This area has historical significance due to its rich prehistoric and archaeological sites, where ancient people once roamed.
Getting There & Facilities
Check current local access restrictions, parking rules and transport timetables before travelling. These notes do not confirm public access to the summit.
Parking
Park at the layby on the B41 road near F812115, providing easy access to the trailhead.
Public Transport
Limited public transport; the nearest bus services operate from Magherafelt, approximately 12 km away.
Nearby Facilities
Facilities in Magherafelt include cafes, restaurants, and restrooms. No specific facilities are available at the trailhead.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Keep an eye out for sudden weather changes; the weather can turn on a sixpence, so be prepared with proper gear.
General Safety Tips
- Check weather conditions before setting out
- Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
- Let someone know your planned route
- Take a map, compass, and GPS device
- Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch
Hills
Some common questions about the hills answered
Are there group walks up Bunmore [Bunmore West] [An Bun Mor]?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Bunmore [Bunmore West] [An Bun Mor] through the maps
Are there other walkers around Bunmore [Bunmore West] [An Bun Mor]?
Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Bunmore [Bunmore West] [An Bun Mor] search or of course create your own walk for Bunmore [Bunmore West] [An Bun Mor]
Can I organise a walk to Bunmore [Bunmore West] [An Bun Mor]?
Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.
If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Bunmore [Bunmore West] [An Bun Mor].
How do I find a walk up this hill?
There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.
Can I suggest a new route up Bunmore [Bunmore West] [An Bun Mor]?
Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.
Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Bunmore [Bunmore West] [An Bun Mor] here
The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?
We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible
Community Discussion
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Location
![Bunmore [Bunmore West] [An Bun Mor] location map](https://cdn.walkmates.com/hill-maps/hill-sources/20527/54.03913_-9.81056.png)
Grid reference: F814115
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
Hills within 30 km
Straight-line distance, not a walking route or confirmation of access.
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