Lagan Canal Towpath

This is a very attractive and gentle trail following the line of the old Lagan Canal Towpath. The path is smooth and flat and is ideal for disabled users, walkers and cyclists. This section of the towpath was opened in 1794, the bridges are a work of art and you can still see the marks in the stone of the barge ropes. The horse-drawn barges of the Lagan Canal once played a vital role in the transport system of the country, carrying tons of merchandise between Belfast and Lough Neagh ports. From the canal it is a short distance to the Montiaghs Moss area, an important peat habitat, where traditional life still involves fishing on the lough and willow basket making. Within this area is Gawleys Gate Visitor’s Harbour and Portmore Lough RSPB Reserve. Starting points: Cranagh Bridge and Annaghdroghal Bridge, Aghagallon. Half of the route follows the National Cycle Network Route 9 and the Lough Neagh Cycle Way-The Loughshore Trail.