Attractions and Places To See around Knockmore - Top 16
Best attractions and places to see around Knockmore offer a variety of natural and historical sites, primarily centered around the River Lagan. This area provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, including walking and cycling along scenic routes. Visitors can explore diverse landscapes ranging from historical bridges to nature reserves and expansive parks. The region is characterized by its accessible trails and green spaces, making it suitable for various interests.
Best attractions and places to see around Knockmore
- The most popular…
Last updated: June 23, 2026
Shaw's Bridge
Highlight • Historical Site
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Lagan Towpath
Highlight • Forest
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Lagan Meadows Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural
This route in the meadow itself …
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Giant's Ring Dolmen
Highlight • Monument
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Lagan Towpath
Highlight (Segment) • River
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Tips from the Community
Cycle and pedestrian bridge over the Lagan
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The bridge is named after Captain John Shaw of Oliver Cromwell's army, who built an oak bridge here in 1655. A stone bridge was built by Thomas Burgh in 1691, although this was destroyed by flooding, which led to it being replaced by the present bridge in 1709.
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The facility is of impressive size.
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The structure consists of a circular earthen ring with a diameter of 180 m and an area of 28,000 square meters, surrounded by an earthen rampart 3.5 m high. At least three of the five irregularly distributed gaps in the ring are intentional and possibly original. East of the center of the ring is a small passage grave with a westward-facing entrance.
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The path, which is part of National Cycle Route 9, offers a peaceful atmosphere that is ideal for relaxed bike rides - but walkers, joggers and dog owners also appreciate the route. The contrast between the quiet river and the partially flooded sections that can appear after heavy rain is particularly exciting. Sometimes the path leads directly to the water, and it almost seems as if the Lagan wants to reclaim a bit more space. The trees are reflected in the calm waters, which creates an almost mystical atmosphere in cloudy weather. Another highlight are the small, branching mountain bike trails that bring a bit of adventure to the tour. If you want a change and don't just want to follow the river, these trails offer a welcome change.
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The path, which is part of National Cycle Route 9, offers a peaceful atmosphere that is ideal for relaxed bike rides - but walkers, joggers and dog owners also appreciate the route. The contrast between the quiet river and the partially flooded sections that can appear after heavy rain is particularly exciting. Sometimes the path leads directly to the water and it almost seems as if the Lagan wants to reclaim a bit more space. The trees are reflected in the calm waters, which creates an almost mystical atmosphere in cloudy weather. Another highlight are the small, branching mountain bike trails that bring a bit of adventure to the tour. If you want a change and don't just want to follow the river, these trails offer a welcome change.
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As you get closer, the mystical aura of the place unfolds, with its mighty, almost circular earthen wall, which measures over 180 meters in diameter and dominates the view over the surrounding plateau. This ancient henge complex is one of the largest and best-preserved monuments of its kind in Ireland - hard to miss when you get close to Shaw's Bridge. In the center of the ring, a megalithic tomb awaits you, which tells its own story with its five supporting stones and a mighty capstone. You can literally feel the thousands of years that have passed here since ceremonies and gatherings probably took place at this place. It is impressive how the Giant's Ring has survived over time, while the wooden structures of the Ballynahatty settlements are long gone.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Knockmore?
The area around Knockmore offers several beautiful natural spots. You can visit the Lagan Meadows Nature Reserve, a peaceful Local Nature Reserve with varied wildlife habitats. Another option is the extensive Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park, which features woodlands, meadows, and beautiful rose gardens.
Are there good places for walking or cycling near Knockmore?
Yes, the Lagan Towpath is a very popular spot for walking, running, or cycling, offering a traffic-free path from the Castlereagh hills to Lisburn. For more options, you can explore various routes like the Hillsborough Forest Park loop or the Lagan Towpath and Barnett Demesne Loop. Find more details on hiking around Knockmore or cycling around Knockmore.
What historical sites can I visit near Knockmore?
A notable historical site is Shaw's Bridge. Originally built in 1655, and rebuilt in 1709, this bridge is a significant landmark and provides a major access point to the Lagan Towpath.
Are the attractions around Knockmore suitable for families?
Many attractions are family-friendly. The Lagan Towpath is ideal for family walks and cycles. Lagan Meadows Nature Reserve offers a peaceful environment for exploration, and Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park includes diverse landscapes and a playground, making it great for all ages.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible paths or attractions?
Yes, the Lagan Towpath has a hard surface, making it suitable for wheelchair users. You can access it via Shaw's Bridge, which also offers parking facilities.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in the nature reserves?
At Lagan Meadows Nature Reserve, visitors have reported seeing varied wildlife, including adventurous seals and kingfishers, especially along the Lagan River.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints in the Knockmore area?
Several locations offer great views. The Lagan Towpath itself provides scenic river views. Shaw's Bridge is a viewpoint over the river, and Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park offers diverse landscapes and vistas within its extensive grounds.
Are there easy hiking trails around Knockmore?
Absolutely. You can find several easy hiking options, such as the Hillsborough Forest Park loop or the Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park loop. For a comprehensive list, check out the easy hikes around Knockmore guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Knockmore?
Visitors particularly appreciate the peaceful atmosphere of places like Lagan Meadows Nature Reserve, even though it's close to the town center. The traffic-free nature of the Lagan Towpath for walking and cycling is also highly valued, as are the beautiful gardens and diverse landscapes of Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park.
Can I find cafes or refreshments near the attractions?
Yes, within Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park, there is a cafe for refreshments. Along the Lagan Towpath, near Shaw's Bridge, you can find the Gatekeepers lodge and a French van at Minnowburn offering coffee and drinks.
What are the best cycling routes in the Knockmore area?
The Lagan Towpath is excellent for cycling. Other popular routes include the Loughshore Trail: Moira Loop and the Lagan Towpath and Divis Mountain Loop. You can find more detailed cycling routes in the cycling around Knockmore guide.
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