Explore one of Ireland's earliest human settlements dating back 9,600 years, featuring an Anglo-Norman fort with commanding river views and scenic woodland walks.

Mountsandel Fort is a State Care Monument of significant historical importance, located in Mountsandel Wood near Coleraine. The site contains one of the earliest known settlements of humans in Ireland, dating to between 7600 and 7900BC, with evidence of Stone Age hunters who camped here to fish salmon in the natural weir. Archaeological findings of flint tools provide fascinating insight into prehistoric life. The imposing earthen fort itself dates back to Anglo-Norman times and demonstrates strategic positioning overlooking the River Bann. The large oval mound features an enclosing deep ditch and shows signs of modification for motte and bailey use and possibly artillery warfare in the late 16th century or later. Visitors can explore the dished-out summit and appreciate the fort's commanding landscape. Family visitors enjoy the forest walk that descends from the fort to the banks of the Bann, passing close to the weir at The Cutts. The woodland trail offers good views over Somerset Wood and the River Bann, making it suitable for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Entry is completely free, and the site is open to the public year-round, making it an accessible and educational destination for families interested in archaeology and medieval history.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

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M F

2 months ago

A great forest walk with varied terrain, including steep hills, drops, and stepped sections—best suited to confident walkers rather than prams or younger children. The fort itself is underwhelming as it is simply a mound but in a nice day the views compensate.

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Graham Seaton

4 years ago

Hadn't probably been here since my primary school days and after over 16 years living in England, nice getting to see these places again that aren't usually part of my visits home.

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Victor Mitchell

6 years ago

Interesting walk, with a the different types of trees, and the spectacular mount itself.

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Jane Harkin

6 years ago

It's a beautiful walk beside the Bann and then up round by the Fort. We went on a winter day. River trees birds peaceful area in the town of Coleraine.

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Pamela

6 years ago

I didn't get to do much of the walk around it. So there could be more of a walk from what I seen. But the fort it's self is nice to walk around for the view

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026