Official tourism website for Northern Ireland

Navan Fort
Armagh, County Armagh

You are here: Home > Destinations > County Armagh > Activities & Attractions in County Armagh

Activities & Attractions in County Armagh

Places to go, people to see

County Armagh is big on adventure, even though it’s Northern Ireland’s smallest county. But that just makes getting from one place to another a walk in the park. We’ve plenty of those by the way – and a whole lot more besides.

Here and there with St. Patrick

The hilltop cathedrals that overlook Armagh city are both dedicated to St. Patrick. This is where he founded his original stone church in 445AD. Today, Armagh is the ecclesiastical capital – the seat of two Archbishops – the Roman Catholic and the Church of Ireland Primates of Ireland.

The hill on which the Church of Ireland Cathedral stands gave its name to the city. Ard Mhacha means the Height of Macha. For the record, Macha was a legendary goddess. She’s also associated with nearby Navan Fort, well worth a trip in itself. Beneath the Cathedral lies a crypt housing a collection of carved figures and stone ornaments – pieces of history with many tales to tell.

A deer’s tale

The twin-spired Catholic Cathedral has its claim to fame too, reflected in the Cathedral’s great east window. The story goes that St. Patrick and his companions were once startled by a deer and her fawn. His companions planned to kill the fawn, but St. Patrick saved it, carrying it all the way to Tealach na Licci where, 1400 years later, the present Cathedral stands. Coincidence? We’ll leave that one with you.

Given their location, naturally the views from either building reward all that climbing effort. And give you a good excuse to stop off for some refreshment when you’re done.

The sky’s the limit

For heavenly bodies of another sort, nothing beats a trip to Armagh Observatory and Planetarium. A leading centre for astronomical research, it’s also a star attraction for kids. Look out for the largest meteorite in Ireland – it weighs 152kg – and check out the digital theatre, a window to the wonders of the universe.

Back to earth and back in time

Navan Fort or Emain Macha - yes, we’re back with the goddess – is not just a very important archaeological site, it’s also a very cool place to visit.

A former pagan ceremonial site, it’s been the ancient seat of Kings, Ulster’s earliest capital, and the sacred stronghold of legendary heroes Cuchulainn and the Red Branch Knights.

It’s hard to imagine all that’s gone on here. But you don’t have to. You can live the history here with an interactive experience that gets you down and dirty with the Celts. Well, that’s what happens when you go digging in Iron Age herb beds.

Book yourself into a library or three

No. 5 Vicar’s Hill stands opposite the main entrance door to St. Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral. A Grade A listed building, it’s the former home of the Diocesan Registry which held the Church records. Some of these are still on display, along with ancient coins, gems and old Armagh maps. There’s plenty for children to do too. Such as learning to write their name in Ogham, the earliest form of the Irish language.

Encountering Jonathan Swift’s own copy of Gulliver’s Travels from 1726, with corrections in his own hand, is just one of the reasons to stop off at the Archbishop Robinson Library. Books line the walls from floor to ceiling in this classical library, built so that the public could enjoy the 18th century Archbishop’s own collection of books and fine art. Though with some 42,000 printed works to get through, it may take you some time.
A more recent addition to the city is The Cardinal Tomas O Fiaich Memorial Library and Archive. It’s a treasure trove of important collections on Irish and church history, and includes many of the Cardinal’s own books and papers.

To the manor born

Brownlow House in Lurgan is a stunning country manor, designed by Edinburgh architect, William Henry Playfair. It’s a Calendar House, built with four wings, one for each season of the year. Oh, and 12 external corners, 52 chimneys and 365 rooms. You get the idea.

One of its most noted residents is Master McGrath, the only dog to win the Waterloo Cup three times. There’s a statue to him in Lurgan town centre.

The house itself played a part in World War II’s D-Day landings. The Brownlow HQ Museum will fill you on that. After which you can enjoy a spectacular afternoon tea overlooking the equally spectacular grounds.

Speaking of spectacular grounds, Brownlow House overlooks Lurgan Park, Northern Ireland’s largest and most beautiful urban park, and the second biggest Park in Ireland (250 acres). Located around an expansive man-made lake, it boasts 5km of pathways through mature woodland and open grassland. The park was once in fact part of the Brownlow estate and whilst these two locations are no longer formally linked, you can still make it a part of your visit.

This is Orchard County

You may have spotted that you don’t get very far in Armagh without meeting a Bramley Apple. And we do like to put them to good use.

From blossom to bottle is the promise of the Armagh Cider Company. The Troughton family have been growing apples on their farm near Portadown for four generations. With a brief 20 year diversion into a very successful stud business. But that’s another story.

Inspired by the Rev. W Brooke who, in 1682, wrote from Portadown that cider was being sold at 30 shillings a barrel, they decided to revive the art and created their own top quality, hand-crafted cider. They’d be delighted to welcome you for a tour and a tasting. So you can put that claim to the test.

Meet your hero

The humble crisp is elevated to something very special in the hands of Mr. Tayto. Larger than life, Mr. Tayto has travelled the world, bringing a taste of home to those who’ve left our shores. The star of his own advertising campaigns – and, indeed, many lunchboxes – you can see how he does it at Tayto Castle in Tandragee. A guided factory tour will let you in on the secrets – or most of them anyway.

If that’s left you with a taste for further adventures, there are plenty more in store. In this little county where nothing is too far away. And nothing is ever too much trouble.

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure information is correct, we strongly advise checking in advance before you travel to your intended destination to ensure its open and book tickets if applicable.

Plan your trip

Stay
What's On
Things to Do
Food & Drink
Shopping

Things to Do Search

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

What's On Search

Dates

Start Date:

End Date:

Any date in the future

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

Food & Drink Search

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

Shopping Search

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

Number of results: 100

, currently showing 21 to 40.

Sort By A-Z Lowest A-Z Highest

Saint Patrick's Way: The Pilgrim's Walk

Armagh

Address

The Navan Centre, 81 Killylea Road, Armagh, Co Armagh, BT60 4LD

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 3752 1800

vic@armagh.co.uk

Type

Type:

Walking Route - Long (20> miles)

Starting at the Navan Centre in Armagh, this 82 mile signed walking trail takes you through some of Northern Ireland’s most spectacular scenic landscapes before ending at Saint Patrick’s final resting place, in the grounds of Down Cathedral.

More Info
Loughgall Country Park Golf Course

Loughgall

Address

11 - 14 Main Street, Loughgall, County Armagh, BT61 8HZ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 3889 2900

info@loughgallcountrypark.co.uk

Type

Type:

Golf Course

Appealing & challenging course at fantastic prices. Designed to provide all golfers with a test of skill and composure.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Slieve Gullion Electric Bike Experience

Killeavy

Address

Drumintee Road, Killeavy, County Armagh, BT35 8SY

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 3088 8352

ringofgullioncyclehireltd@outlook.com

Price
Price £29.00 to £127.00 Activity

Type

Type:

Cycle Hire & Holidays

Electric bike and standard bike hire to explore Slieve Gullion's breath taking mountain views and surrounding areas with our self-guided tours supplied and explained by our very helpful staff. All bikes come with helmets, locks and the option to add…

Price
Price £29.00 to £127.00 Activity

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Parking (free)
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
The Argory Lime Tree Walk

Moy

Address

144 Derrycaw Road, Moy, County Armagh, BT71 6NA

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Lime Tree Walk takes you along the avenue of pollarded lime trees under-planted by snowdrops and spring flowers. This walk passes The Argory Oak Plantation, returning to the house by the main drive. Wheel chair friendly.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
292 reviews
Armagh Observatory and Planetarium

Armagh

Address

College Hill, Armagh, County Armagh, BT61 9DB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 3752 3689

reception@armagh.ac.uk

Type

Type:

Observatory / Planetarium

Armagh Observatory and Planetarium is “the place for space”. Watch an amazing Full Dome Theatre show and explore the Universe. Immerse yourself in the latest scientific research in the exhibition area and take a relaxing walk through the Astropark…

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
- Parking (free)
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Slieve Gullion Mountain Walk

BT35 8SW, Killeavy

Address

Drumintee Road, BT35 8SW, Killeavy, Co Armagh, BT35 8SW

Telephone
+44 (0) 33 0137 4046

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

A mountain walk linked with forest tracks and minor roads

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Argory Blackwater River Walk

Address

Co Armagh

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Follow the River Blackwater around the estate and cross the industrial age-Bond’s Bridge.

More Info
Armagh Ancestry

Armagh

Address

40 English Street, Armagh, County Armagh, BT61 7BA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 3752 1800

info@visitarmagh.com

Type

Type:

Ancestry / Tracing Your Routes

Armagh Ancestry offers a comprehensive genealogical service to those whose ancestors came from Armagh.
We are able to offer an efficient and accurate service, for a reasonable cost and in a short time.
Pre-booking is essential.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Lowry's Lake

Armagh

Address

50, Ballnahonemore Road, Armagh, County Armagh, BT60 1HY

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 3751 1738

afl@talktalk.net

Type

Type:

Game Fishing

Lowry's Lake is a favourite with members and visitors. The lake is stocked regularly and due to location fished hard. The trout become educated and a thoughtful approach is required for success. Hotspots are Kildarton Shore and The Ramper area.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Kinnego Marina

Craigavon

Address

Kinnego Marina, Annaloist Road, Craigavon, County Armagh, BT66 6NJ

Telephone
03300561190

kinnego.marina@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Marinas

Situated on Lough Neagh beside the Oxford Island National Nature Reserve, Kinnego Marina is the largest marina on the Lough. There is a range of associated amenities on site and instruction on watersports and water safety.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Craigmore Viaduct

Bessbrook

Address

Belfast to Dublin railway line, Bessbrook, County Armagh, BT35 6JR

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 3031 3170

visitorservices@nmandd.org

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Railway

This 18 arch viaduct, close to Newry, is a prominent feature of the south Armagh landscape.

Price
Free

More Info
South Lake Watersports Centre

Craigavon

Address

1 Lake Road, Craigavon, County Armagh, BT64 1AS

Telephone
0330 0564 411

sllc@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Water Sports

At South Lake Watersports, Craigavon, say hello to unforgettable ”whoopeeee’ water and land-based adventure and ‘total wipeout’ style fun, whatever your age, experience and ability, all set within the stunning grounds of Craigavon City Park and…

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Ballymoyer Woodland

Address

Co Armagh

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Lowland woodland paths

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Lough Neagh Discovery and Conference Centre

Craigavon

Address

Oxford Island National Nature Reserve, Annaloist Road, Craigavon, County Armagh, BT66 6NJ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 3832 2205

oxford.island@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Visitor Centres & Museums

Enjoy four miles of footpaths, five birdwatching hides, woodland, ponds, wildflower meadows, picnic and play areas and seasonal innovative exhibitions at The Lough Neagh Discovery Centre. Enjoy stunning, panoramic views of the Lough from the…

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Lurgan Golf Club

Lurgan

Address

The Demesne, Windsor Avenue, Lurgan, County Armagh, BT67 9BN

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 3832 2087

admin@lurgangolfclub.com

Type

Type:

Parkland Golf Course

Beautiful Parkland course bordering on Lurgan Lake, just 2 miles from Lurgan junction of M1 motorway. The club has produced some great amateur and professional golfers over the years which are a testament to the quality of the course.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on site
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
33 reviews
Lurgan Park

Lurgan

Address

Windsor Avenue, Lurgan, County Armagh, BT67 9BG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 3832 3795

parksdevelopment@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Public Park

Lurgan Park is the second largest public park in Ireland, and is enjoyed by as many as 2000 people every day. The beautifully landscaped parkland contains a number of well maintained paths which provide excellent walking and running ground.

Price
Free

More Info
Armagh Franciscan Friary

Armagh

Address

Friary Road, Armagh, County Armagh, BT60 4FR

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9082 3207

scmenquiries@communities-ni.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Churches & Sacred Sites

Ruins of the longest Friary church in Ireland (163 ft.). Founded by Archbishop Patrick O'Scanail in 1263. Open all year.

Price
Free

More Info
Armagh Cider Company

Portadown

Address

Ballinteggart House, 73 Drumnasoo Road, Portadown, Counrty Armagh, BT62 4EX

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 3833 4268

info@armaghcider.com

Type

Type:

Tailor-made Tours

Armagh Cider Company is a family business based at Ballinteggart House where apples have been grown for five generations. Walk through the orchards, experience the cidery and bottling plant before tasting our award winning ciders and juices.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
113 reviews
Peatlands Park

Dungannon

Address

33 Derryhubbert Road, Dungannon, County Armagh, BT71 6NW

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 3839 9195

nieainfo@daera-ni.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Nature and Wildlife

We invite you to come and explore Peatlands Park. This beautiful area has a wonderful wilderness appeal and is situated near the shores of Lough Neagh just off the MI at exit 13 south of Dungannon.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking - The car park operates a traffic plate system on the exit so vehicles may still leave the car park after site closure. Please note that car parks may be temporarily closed at times to support social distancing if sites become particularly busy or crowded. Make sure that you follow Public Health Agency guidelines and maintain social distancing at all times.
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
124 reviews
Brownlow House

Lurgan

Address

Windsor Avenue, Lurgan, County Armagh, BT67 9BJ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 3832 6049

info@brownlowhouse.com

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Visitor Centres & Museums

Brownlow House is Located in the centre of Lurgan adjacent to Lurgan Public Park, a grade A listed building now open for viewing.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking