4.3
(10)
314
hikers
21
hikes
Hiking around Keady Beg offers a diverse landscape characterized by wooded glens, riverside paths, and elevated viewpoints. The region features a mix of hills, lakes, and historical mill areas, providing varied terrain for outdoor exploration. Trails often traverse natural features such as Carnagh Forest Park and offer expansive views from higher elevations. This area provides opportunities for both leisurely strolls and more ambitious hikes.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
2
hikers
9.79km
03:02
340m
340m
Hike the moderate 6.1-mile Camlough Mountain & Lake loop for panoramic views and diverse terrain in the Ring of Gullion AONB.
4
hikers
8.64km
02:44
330m
330m
Hike Camlough Mountain from Camlough for moderate terrain, panoramic views, and a unique geological experience in the Ring of Gullion.

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3
hikers
4.32km
01:10
60m
60m
This easy 2.7-mile loop around Bessbrook Pond offers a pleasant hike past the Bessbrook War Memorial and through a historic village.
17
hikers
8.27km
02:08
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
hikers
4.35km
01:11
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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As you enter Newry via the canal route, you are greeted by an impressive tribute to the fallen: the Newry War Memorial, marked by an authentic 25-pounder gun. This artillery piece, an icon of World War II, symbolizes the courage and sacrifice of the local people during global conflicts. The Gun: It is an Ordnance QF 25-pounder, the main British field gun of World War II, known for its versatility and mobility.
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Here, too, passersby encounter a "war memorial" in the center of town. Everywhere in the villages and towns, victims were mourned during the terrible wars (especially, but not only, in the first half of the last century) – often young people who had to endure suffering and pain and ultimately paid with their own lives for their service to their fatherland far from home. Their names are always inscribed on the respective memorial to at least keep the memory alive.
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Here, too, hikers and walkers will encounter a "war memorial" in the center of town, as throughout the villages and towns, victims of the terrible wars (especially in the first half of the last century) were mourned – often young people who had to endure suffering and pain and ultimately paid with their own lives for their service to their country far from home. Their names are always inscribed on the respective memorial to at least keep the memory alive.
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The war memorial in Bessbrook stands silently yet full of meaning in the heart of the village. The white obelisk bears the names of almost ninety people who gave their lives in the Second World War - a sign of remembrance and remembrance of those who once lived here and defended their homeland. As you walk past, you can read the inscriptions that tell the stories of those who fell. The square around the memorial is simple, but that is precisely what draws the focus to the message of remembrance and the silent commemoration of the past. The surrounding houses seem to carry the history of the place and you can almost feel how yesterday and today are connected here. A place that makes you pause and reminds you of how important it is to preserve history.
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Camlough Lake is a peaceful place where time seems to pass more slowly. As you stroll along the path, the sparkling water stretches out before you, framed by rolling hills and the shade of the surrounding forests. A few curious goats watch you from a meadow, their gaze almost as interested as yours as you enjoy the view. There is not only nature to experience here, but also small amenities - a car park and a picnic area invite you to take a break. The view of the lake, which once served as a reservoir, is a wonderful way to relax. The lake is also a popular destination for anglers who wait patiently for their catch here. A walk around Camlough Lake is a welcome break that simply does you good.
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Gordon's Lane, just a stone's throw south of Camlough, invites you to a quiet journey of discovery. The narrow lane winds gently through the hills and takes you right into the green of the fields. Old stone walls and thorny hedges line the path on either side, while behind every bend you catch a new view of the valley. From up here, Camlough seems almost like a silent model, spreading out in the distance while nature maintains its own rhythm. The path leads you past pastures and you notice how the noise of everyday life quietly fades away. Especially after a rain shower, the asphalt sparkles and the fresh scent of grass is in the air - a little adventure off the beaten track.
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This War Memorial in Bessbrook is dedicated to the 86 individuals from the village who gave their lives in the Second World War. It is a 17-foot (5.75 meters) tall obelisk.
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Running along this road next to Camlough Lake is a sensory delight. Additionally, at the southernmost section of the stretch, there's a picnic area with views of the lake where you can rest or even stop for a snack.
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The Keady Beg area offers a diverse selection of over 20 hiking trails. These routes cater to various preferences, ranging from leisurely strolls to more challenging ascents, exploring wooded glens, riverside paths, and elevated viewpoints.
Yes, there are 14 easy hiking routes suitable for families and beginners. A great option is the Bessbrook War Memorial — loop around the Bessbrook Pond, an easy 2.7-mile trail through a local park. Another gentle choice is the Ballymoyer Woodland loop from Whitecross, which is about 2.6 miles long and offers a pleasant woodland experience.
Hikers in the Keady Beg area will encounter a varied landscape featuring picturesque wooded glens, tranquil riverside paths, and elevated viewpoints offering expansive vistas. The region is characterized by a mix of hills, lakes, and historical mill areas, providing diverse terrain. Notable features include the scenic Keady/Annvale Glen and the panoramic views from Carrigatuke Viewpoint.
Yes, several circular routes are available. A popular choice is the Camlough Mountain & Lake loop, a moderate 6.1-mile trail that explores the area around Camlough Mountain and its lake. For a shorter, easier option, consider the Bessbrook War Memorial — loop around the Bessbrook Pond.
While hiking, you can explore several interesting points. The Camlough Lake is a prominent natural feature. For historical interest, Gosford Castle and its surrounding park, including the Red Deer Enclosure, are nearby. The Newry Canal Towpath also offers a different kind of scenic walk.
Yes, many trailheads and popular hiking spots in the Keady Beg area, such as Carnagh Forest Park and Tullynawood Lake, offer dedicated car parks. It's advisable to check specific route details for the most convenient parking locations.
While specific public transport links directly to every trailhead might be limited, the town of Keady itself is served by local transport. For routes further afield, planning may involve a combination of public transport to Keady and then a short taxi ride or a longer walk to the starting point. Checking local bus schedules is recommended.
The hiking routes in Keady Beg are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.3 stars from over 10 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the varied terrain, from quiet woodlands to elevated viewpoints, and the opportunities for both relaxed strolls and more challenging ascents.
Absolutely. The region is known for its elevated viewpoints. Carrigatuke Viewpoint, situated at 1,200 feet in the Fews Forest, provides breathtaking panoramic vistas in all directions. Trails ascending Camlough Mountain, such as Camlough Mountain from Camlough, also offer excellent views of the surrounding countryside.
Yes, the area boasts several forest walks. Carnagh Forest Park, located near Keady, offers multiple waymarked trails ranging from 0.6 to 2 miles, providing shaded paths and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Beyond Carnagh, the general region features numerous other forest trails for exploration.
The trails around Keady Beg offer a range of difficulty levels. You'll find 14 easy routes perfect for a relaxed walk, and 7 moderate routes that involve more significant elevation changes or longer distances. There are no routes classified as difficult, making the area accessible to most hikers.
Yes, Keady serves as a gateway to more extensive walking adventures. The 37.9-mile circular Ring of Gullion Way and sections of Saint Patrick's Way: The Pilgrim Walk (a 132km trail) are accessible from the broader Keady area, offering opportunities for multi-day hikes and exploration of a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.


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