One silver lining, however, is many of us have found the ability to reconnect with nature and lose ourselves in the beauty that we can so often forget surrounds us.
For those seeking a tranquil hour or so away from the house in Co Tyrone, check out our suggestions of great places to go for a walk.
5. Davagh Forest
The epitome of a hidden gem, Davagh Forest is nestled just six miles northwest of Cookstown in an untouched rural landscape of rolling hills and sweeping forests, with a unique network of trails for walking and mountain biking. The path meanders through rich green woodland before crossing Davagh Water and gently ascending to the main forest road. Also on site as the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory; the ‘dark sky’ means that there is so little light pollution - if any - that it is possible, at night, to experience crystal-clear views of the constellations of distant galaxies. Photo: DiscoverNI
6. Gortin Glen Forest Park
Six miles north of Omagh, the redevelopment of Gortin Glen has made it a must for nature enthusiasts and their families, with an outdoor play park, trim trail, Mountain Bike Trails, horse trails, and a cafe. Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has identified the Glen as an outdoor resource that, if used properly, could support the delivery of long-term health benefits for local residents and visitors from further afield. Photo: DiscoverNI
7. Benburb Valley Park
In the village of Benburb south of Dungannon, the Valley Park allows you to enjoy the stunning gorge that the Blackwater River has carved out of the landscape over thousands of years. A bluebell walk has recently been developed on site and can be savoured by turning right when leaving the Castle. The central Priory where the walking paths start and end belongs to the Servite Order, who, since coming to Benburb in 1949, have steadfastly maintained an ‘open door’ policy, welcoming visitors and pilgrims from all backgrounds. The Stables coffee shop is open daily and offers home-cooked meals in the Stables Courtyard. Photo: DiscoverNI
8. Lough Fea
Secluded among the rugged mountain scenery of the Sperrins, the 180-acre lake and natural beauty spot, while supplying the wider area with fresh water, also serves as an angler’s dream. This mix of panoramic scenery and calming waters makes this the perfect idyll for a mind-calming sunset walk. Located five miles north of Cookstown on the B162 road to Draperstown. Photo: DiscoverNI