Eat, Stay & Play: A 24-Hour Dog-Friendly Itinerary in Armagh

Armagh is an easy place to explore with your dog. The city is compact, with plenty of walking spots nearby and many cafés that welcome four-legged visitors. This 24-hour itinerary takes you on a trip full of scenic walks, good food and evening activities to enjoy alongside your furry friend.

Day 1

Start the Day: 4Cs Café

Start your stay by visiting 4Cs Café. The café has a covered outdoor area that is perfect for dogs, giving you some shelter from the weather while still allowing you and your furry friend to relax together.

It’s a cosy and welcoming spot to grab a quick bite before exploring Armagh. Open on Saturdays from 7am to 6pm, the café offers everything from traybakes and fresh scones to fully cooked warm meals, making it an ideal first stop of the day. 

Morning Walk: Palace Demesne Public Park & Cathedral Gardens

After a quick meal, head over to Palace Demesne Public Park to stretch your legs. There are several paths through woodland, open parkland and gardens, making it an easy place for a morning dander with your dog. The routes vary in length, so you can keep it short or spend a little longer exploring the trails.

On clear days you’ll also find quiet corners along the paths and gardens where you can pause for a rest before continuing your walk.

Just a short 10-minute walk away, you can also explore the Cathedral Gardens of St. Patrick's Anglican cathedral with your four-legged friend. These historic gardens offer the chance to admire a variety of flowers and neatly designed courtyards spread throughout the grounds. In springtime the gardens are in full bloom, making them a particularly lovely place to visit.

Check In: 31 Lower English Street

After your afternoon of exploring, check in to your self-catering accommodation at 31 Lower English Street.

Your pup will be treated like a true VIP here, with complimentary treats, toys and a dog bowl provided during your stay. The stylish and welcoming interior makes it the perfect base to relax and spend some downtime with your dog.

The central location is also ideal when travelling with a pet. Shops, green spaces and walking routes are all within a short distance, and you can step outside the door and immediately begin exploring the city.

It’s a great base for the rest of this itinerary, with most stops just a short walk away.

Dinner: On The Hoof

For dinner, take a short 15-minute drive to On The Hoof, located just outside Armagh near Richhill. The restaurant is known for its American-style barbecue cooking, with a menu built around slow-smoked meats, wood-fired dishes and generous sharing plates using local produce from County Armagh.

The relaxed setting and outdoor seating make it a comfortable stop when travelling with a dog. The casual atmosphere allows visitors to settle in for an easy evening meal after a day of exploring.

Evening Drinks: The Hole in the Wall Bar

Round off your evening with drinks at The Hole in the Wall, a cosy dog-friendly pub where you can settle in and enjoy a cold pint and the local atmosphere.

Located just a quick 10-minute walk from your accommodation, it’s the perfect place to finish the day with a drink while your dog relaxes beside you.

Day 2

Breakfast: Measured Coffee

Start day two by grabbing breakfast at Measured, a stylish coffee shop located in the centre of Armagh city and just a five-minute walk from your accommodation.

Here you can enjoy lighter options such as coffee and pastries, or choose something more filling like açai bowls or a stack of protein pancakes. Measured offers a welcoming atmosphere for both you and your pup, and even provides dog treats and pup cups so everyone can enjoy breakfast together.

Explore: Oxford Island Nature Reserve

After breakfast, take a trip to Oxford Island Nature Reserve. The walking trails pass through woodland and along the water’s edge, making it a peaceful place to explore with your dog.

It’s also a great opportunity to spot local birdlife and enjoy views across the freshwater lake. Spending the morning here is a relaxing way to experience the natural landscape of the area.

Lunch: Bob & Berts

Finally, wrap up your 24 hours in Portadown with a well-deserved lunch at Bob & Berts after exploring Oxford Island.

Open on Sundays from 9am to 6pm, Bob & Berts offers a wide range of lunch options, from warm meals to lighter bites such as sandwiches and traybakes. They also provide pup cups and have a refillable water station that can be used to top up your own water bottle or your dog’s bowl.