The Priest’s Chair via Craig-Na-Shoke Walk

The Priest’s Chair via Craig-Na-Shoke Walk is a fairly rugged adventure that features steep and rocky terrain, making it unsuitable for children and dogs. Additionally, the upper portions of the walk are off-trail, so you will want to bring a GPS in order to stay on course. Be sure to wear proper walking boots with good support and grip.

Although it may be a bit of a rough and rugged journey, this is an exceptional walk that showcases the beauty of the Sperrins AONB and the rock formations that can be found there. After traversing a tranquil stretch of forest, you will climb up the steep mountainside under the impressive rock wall of Craig-Na-Shoke, before exploring another forest and some mountaintop terrain. This is a fantastic excursion if you simply want to get off the beaten path and experience some amazing views.

Setting out from the car park, head southeast through the forest for 0.42mi, turning left to follow the route as it bends to the north. Keep straight for the next 1.2mi, climbing uphill through the charming woodland landscape of the Moydamlaght Forest on the way towards Craig-Na-Shoke.

Head right here and continue making your way uphill to the northeast, where you will eventually break free of the tree cover and arrive at Craig-Na-Shoke, also known as the Eagle’s Rock. To the left of the impressive rock formation, you will find a gap that you can pass through. Make your way through the gap and climb up the steep terrain to reach the mountaintop.

From here, you will continue to the northeast towards Glenshane Forest, turning left at the treeline in order to follow the edge of the forest to the north. Eventually, you will reach a small river and carefully cross over to the opposite bank.

After crossing over a fence, continue along the banks of the river as it heads to the southeast and provides views of a scenic waterfall. From here, you will continue along the trail and descend the hillside through the forest, turning right along the forest path to eventually break free of the tree cover near the rock known as the Priest’s Chair.

Heading to the right, the trail will lead you to the southwest and eventually arrive back at Craig-Na-Shoke. Carefully make your way through the steep terrain of the gap and retrace your steps along the trail in order to wrap up your adventure on the Priest’s Chair via Craig-Na-Shoke Walk.

Trail Highlights

Craig-Na-Shoke

Craig-Na-Shoke, also known as the Eagle’s Rock, is an impressive rock face that can be found within the Sperrins Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The formation is flanked by Mullaghmore to the northwest and Bohilbreaga to the east, overlooking both the valley and nearby village of Moneyneany.