Glenshane Country Farm — Attraction in Lisnamuck

So Fred and I have returned from our trip to Ireland, and one of the experiences we tried, was a working sheepdog demo. There were so many available to do throughout the country, but the one we focused on was in the northern part of Ireland. We booked a private tour experience at Glenshane Country Farm and we are glad we did. Fred and I had the whole farm to ourselves and had one on one time with Jamese who is the owner/sheep farmer. What a glorious experience to be able to listen to the history of his farm (which has been in his family for 4 generations), to learn about the dogs on the farm and their history, and his methods and training to allow his dogs to succeed at sheep herding. You could tell these dogs love to work and love to please. We got to watch Tess, Jess, and Erin run through their trials with all the various commands - verbal, hand, whistle, and specifically to Erin commands in Gaelic. These dogs are well trained and well loved and it shows. We were also able to raise and lower gates, as part of the demo, pet the sheep and one of the dogs, and at the end got to hold a lamb. As for the farm itself, it is absolutely beautiful and well maintained. And for those worried about a rainy day (no need to cancel/not attend) Jamese has you covered - literally! He has built a covered viewing area that is gorgeous and comfortable, thankfully we experienced sunny days during our trip, but this is definitely a bonus for those concerned about the weather. There is also a gift shop full of delightful souvenirs and a restaurant. And if interested, you can book to stay on the farm, and had we known this earlier, would’ve opted for that. All in all, can’t say enough about this experience. Jamese and his mom, who we got to meet as well, were delightful, friendly, welcoming and deservedly proud of the business they have built. Would highly recommend this business, in any of its forms, for anyone looking for an experience like this. #glenshanecountryfarm #Ireland #sheepdogs #sheepdogdemonstration #workingsheepdogs...

We decided to try something completely different and get a feel for the tradition and culture for where we were visiting this trip. Took the small tour bus about an hour north of Belfast to the Sperrin Mountains and in Maghera we visited the Glenshare Country Farm. An actual operating sheep farm that averages 400+ sheep but can on occasion get as many as 600-700 sheep. Actual demonstrations from 4th generation farmer Jamese McCloy in sheep herding with their pure bred sheep dogs as well as a demonstration of shearing the wool from the sheep that they to this day. I was called on to help demonstrate how they did it in the old days and I was such a natural I was hired on the spot! Lynne made a buddy too!😂 After all the tour and demos we were treated to an amazing lunch of homemade Potato and Leake soup, finger sandwiches, homemade oat bread, and home made caramel squares(my fave!) I raved about them so much Mrs McCloy gave Lynne and I one each for the road!🙌🙌 It was something completely different, and unexpectedly amazing in the same breath. If you ever get to go to Belfast make the trip north a bit and visit. The farm is nestled on a beautiful hilltop in a postcard setting. Thanks to Jamese and his family for such an...

Glenshane Country Farm was such a unique and memorable experience! From the beautiful log cabin like visitor center to the delicious home cooked soup and tea sandwiches, the introduction to their farm was welcoming. James had the crowd smiling and laughing as he introduced all his sheep dogs. The dogs were beautiful and it was magical to see the training and calls they have learned. Watching the dogs perform a standard collection of sheep was both informative and entertaining. James even got the crowd involved! Seeing the different kinds of sheep and getting the opportunity to hold lambs brought smiles to everyone’s faces. James explained the process of shaving the sheep and even gave a demonstration. All activities are under a shelter so it could be enjoyable both rain or shine. Finally, you must check out their gift shop at the end! I had to buy a little sheep just so I could always remember my unforgettable experience. I would highly recommend visiting the beautiful Glenshane...