This includes Nobel prize winning poet Seamus Heaney who was born near Castledawson, and Olympic medal winning cyclist Wendy Houvenaghel (nee McLean) who hails from Upperlands.
Here is a selection of well known people who were born in or are closely connected to the area. Can you think of any other famous faces that hail from the district?
25. Brendan Quinn
Born in Magherafelt, Country and Traditional singer/songwriter Brendan Quinn has spent over 50 years making music. He left school at 16 and got into the showband scene, formed his own band The Bluebirds and later played with Arty McGlynn in The Kickin' Mule. Photo: National World
26. Eleanor Methven
Film, television and stage actress Eleanor Methven, who recently appeared in episodes of Derry Girls, was born and grew up in Magherafelt and started her acting career at Rainey Endowed School in the town. Photo: Contributed
27. Owen O'Neill
Cookstown born writer, comedian, director and actor Owen O'Neill. He started his career writing poetry and later became a stand up comedian Pic Getty Images Photo: Getty images
28. Cliona Hagan
Cliona Hagan from Ballinderry, Cookstown, has taken the country music scene by storm. The former school teacher also took part in RTE's Dancing with the Stars and reached the final. Photo: Contributed