In this part of our guide, we will examine and offer resources for Cookstown, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland.

The area of Cookstown is known for its archaeological sites, such as the Beaghmore Stone Circles, which are believed to date back to the Bronze Age, suggesting that the region was a significant ceremonial and settlement area in ancient times.

During the medieval period, Cookstown gained prominence due to its proximity to Tullyhogue Fort, historically associated with the crowning of the O'Neill Clan chieftains. This fort remains a key historical landmark, reflecting the area's importance in Irish history.

In 1609, the land was leased to an English ecclesiastical lawyer, Dr. Cooke, who fulfilled the covenants entered in the lease by constructing houses. In 1628, King Charles I granted Letters of Patent to Cooke, permitting a twice-weekly market for livestock and flaxen goods.

In 1641, the native Irish revolted against the Planters in a rebellion that destroyed the town, halting significant redevelopment for nearly a century. Over the succeeding years, the lands around Cookstown were acquired by William Stewart of Killymoon, who planned the town's redevelopment, planning a new town to be built along a wide tree-lined boulevard.

In 1802, Colonel William Stewart, grandson of the original William Stewart, hired a London architect, John Nash, to rebuild Killymoon Castle.

Gunning's Linen Weaving Mill, with more than 300 looms, established Cookstoen as a local centre of the linen trade, and two railways, the Belfast and Northern Counties Railways (1856-1955) and the Great Northern Railway (1879-1959) established terminus stations at Cookstown.

Historically, the town's economy was rooted in agriculture and linen production, with the town being known for its wide main street, which facilitated trade and commerce. Its economy has diversified in contemporary times, including retail, manufacturing, and tourism.

Cookstown is in the heart of Northern Ireland, making it a central hub within County Tyrone. It is about fifty miles west of Belfast and surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including forests and rolling hills. Nearby localities include Magherafelt, Dungannon, and Omagh, each contributing to the region's economic fabric.

Cookstone and the surrounding area feature several attractions highlighting its historical significance and natural beauty. These include the Burnavon Arts & Cultural Centre, a focal point for cultural activities. Others include Lissan House, a historic estate with guided tours, Killymoon Castle, Tullyhogue Fort, and the Beaghmore Stone Circles.

Historic religious sites include Saint Luaran's Church, associated with the Church of Ireland, on Church Street, and James Joseph McCarthy's Catholic Church, built between 1855 and 1860. The Derryloran Old Cemetery, located on Sandholes Road on the outskirts of town, features an old graveyard and churchyard dating back to the 17th century.

Each April, Cookstown hosts the Cookstown 100 Road Races, the longest-running motorcycle race in Ireland. Its sports clubs include Cookstown Fr. Rock's, the local Gaelic Athletic Association club, the Cookstown Hockey Club, and a few association football clubs: Cookstown Olympic F.C., Mid-Ulster Ladies F.C., the Killymoon Rangers F.C., Coagh United F.C., and Sofia Farmer F.C.

The educational needs of Cookstown residents are met by several area primary schools, and a couple of secondary schools (Cookstown High School and Holy Trinity College). The Loughry campus of the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise is south of town.

As is the case throughout most of Northern Ireland, there are more Catholics than Protestants in Cookstown. Nevertheless, various Protestant denominations are represented in the community.

Appropriate topics for this category include Cookstown businesses, industries, schools, places of worship, museums, attractions, art galleries, entertainment venues, sports and recreational facilities and teams, events, and other topics related to Cookstown, Northern Ireland.

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