Magherafelt Farmland is a relatively elevated area adjacent to the West Lough Neagh Shores. The drumlin landform is generally not as well-defined as in the surrounding lowlands, but individual small drumlins are important landscape features which are often up-standing from the farmland plateau. Killowen Hill, to the south of Magherafelt is a prominent example. The summits of Mullaghboy Hill, to the west of Magherafelt and Spring Hill, overlooking Moneymore are the highest points of a broken ridge line which provides long views over the deep river valley to the west.
The valley landscapes contrast with the relatively windswept, open farmland. Most are narrow, with ribbons of woodland and tall riverbank trees following rivers and streams. On higher land, stands of mature trees often draw attention to individual drumlins and any sharp breaks of slope. The hedgerow network is relatively sparse in places and the landscape often seems open, with long views. Most roads are extremely straight and some are un-enclosed. There are long views to Slieve Gallion, to the west. Large farmsteads are traditionally set back from the road and are reached by tracks; smaller farm cottages are sited along roads. This historic settlement pattern is disrupted by recent development near Magherafelt, but there is relatively little ribbon development. The large farmsteads, and their associated stands of mature trees, are prominent landscape features.
Landscape Condition and Sensitivity to ChangeLandscape condition is variable, with the field pattern in some areas being disrupted by loss of hedgerows. The most sensitive landscapes are often relatively small in scale. For instance, the narrow stream corridors, small drumlins (such as Killowen Hill) and local ridgetops (such as Mullaghby Hill) are all important local features which would be extremely vulnerable to the impact of any form of development.
Principles for Landscape Management