The Old Bridge stands on the site of a former ford and was built in 1727 with six arches. It is a striking introduction to Newtownstewart’s architectural history. Other points of interest range from the history of the castle to places and activities connected with the River Strule. This lets you shape your stay around historic buildings or themes related to the river and landscape.

Castles and traces of different eras

Newtownstewart Castle was built around 1619 by Sir Robert Newcomen. Its distinctive features include three gables facing the street. The interior arcades date from the time when the building was used as the town’s marketplace in the 19th century. An intact Bronze Age double cist grave with a capstone was also discovered at Newtownstewart Castle. These details represent different chapters in the town’s history, from the Bronze Age find to the building’s later use.

Newtownstewart Conservation Area was designated an area of special architectural or historic interest in April 1993. Its built heritage and wider historic setting provide a unique backdrop and source of inspiration for a vibrant local arts and culture sector. A comprehensive guide by Derry City and Strabane to the heritage sites of Newtownstewart and Sion Mills can help you discover the historical significance of local heritage sites.

The surrounding area also has castles with their own historical connections. Barons Court was built between 1779 and 1782. Tours there last about 90 minutes and are available by prior appointment. Check whether an appointment is available before you travel. Harry Avery's Castle is believed to have been built around 1320 by a local chief of the O’Neill clan. It is considered unusual because Irish chiefs of that period rarely built stone castles.

The River Strule and outdoor activities

Vaughan's Holm is an open green space on a bend in the River Strule. The site is surrounded by the river on three sides and offers a circular walk; local conditions should be taken into account. For fishing, the Omagh Anglers Association’s access extends downstream from Newtownstewart and includes the River Strule. Sea trout can usually be caught around Newtownstewart from June onwards. If you plan to fish, confirm current permits and local conditions in advance.

Another way to connect your visit with an activity is the Newtownstewart to Strabane Cycle route. It starts in Newtownstewart and follows the NCN Route 92 signs. As signage and route conditions can change, it is advisable to check before setting out. For a different view of the area, Newtownstewart Golf Club is located at the foot of Bessy Bell, in the parkland of Baronscourt. Nearby Bessy Bell reaches an elevation of 420 metres and is part of the Sperrin Mountain Range.

Planning your stay

If you are mainly interested in architectural history, the castle, Old Bridge and nearby castles offer different historical points of interest. For time by the water, Vaughan's Holm and fishing access on the River Strule are relevant options; cycling and the landscape around Bessy Bell add to the choice. The places and activities should not be treated as a fixed itinerary: choose according to the themes that matter for your trip, and take the stated conditions for tours, fishing and cycling into account.

An agreement on key management for Newtownstewart Castle was announced on 30 September 2025, with the aim of improving public access. Check which arrangements are currently in place before visiting. This keeps the historical visit separate from the practical question of current access.

Discover more destinations: Strabane, Castlederg, Omagh

For the main travel overview: Tyrone.