4.0
(2)
41
hikers
10
hikes
Hiking trails around Drumrusk, located in County Armagh, Northern Ireland, traverse a landscape characterized by verdant drumlins, serene loughs, and mature woodlands. The region features gentle hills and river gorges, offering varied terrain for outdoor activities. Paths often follow riverbanks, such as the River Blackwater, and lead through scenic forest areas.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
5.0
(1)
14
hikers
4.99km
01:18
40m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
4.58km
01:14
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3.0
(1)
12
hikers
2.45km
00:38
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
6.63km
01:43
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Drumrusk
As you step through the magnificent gate, you will be enveloped by the timelessness of this historic place. The old walls, which shine in the sun, tell stories from times long past and invite you to discover them. The municipality has enriched this treasure trove of history with a library and a museum that attract knowledge seekers and history lovers. In the quiet rooms of the library you can leaf through old writings and be transported back to times gone by, while the museum brings the history of the place and its people to life. After a journey of discovery through history and culture, the Priorat's café beckons with its seductive scent of freshly brewed coffee. Here, in an ambience that wonderfully combines modernity and history, you can take a little time out. Choose from comfortable seating inside or settle on one of the terraces to soak up the rays while munching on delicious pastries. But the Priory has even more to offer. A dreamy little walkway winds from the building down to the river. A path lined with blooming flowers and old trees that acts as an invitation to explore this wonderful terrain in all its splendor.
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A well-designed information board welcomes you directly on the shore and will introduce you to the lake and the surrounding forest like an experienced guide. Using carefully chosen words and images, she traces the fishing history of Brantry Lough - from the first people who fished here with simple nets to the modern anglers who live out their passion for the sport here today. The board takes you into a world rich in biodiversity. You will be amazed at the variety of fish that swim in these waters and the stories each of them has to tell. From the iridescent brown trout that deftly meander through the aquatic plants to the smaller species that reside in the deeper areas of the lake.
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Surrounded by rolling hills and lush green meadows, this lake reflects the sky in its clear waters and holds a special promise for those dedicated to the art of fishing. The waters of Brantry Lough are rich in brown trout. Skillfully moving through the depths of the lake, these dazzling fish are stocked all year round and are the pride of the lough. Not only do they offer a challenge for experienced anglers, but also a fascinating observation for nature lovers. Especially at daybreak or in the quiet hours of the evening, when the water is calm and the air is filled with an expectant silence, you can see boats gently rocking on the lake. These belong to enthusiastic fishermen who have come hoping for the perfect catch. The tranquil atmosphere, broken only by the occasional splash of a fishing hook thrown into the water, makes Brantry Lough a place for relaxation and reflection.
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This handsome looking weir stretches across the river like a silent sentinel, capturing the clear waters of the Blackwater as they glisten in the sun and bathe the surrounding area in a calming sound. Next to the weir there is a green oasis in which time seems to stand still. Lush green areas, peppered with scattered trees, invite you to linger. Picnic benches, strategically placed, offer the ideal place to watch the water play at the weir, let your thoughts wander and unwind. Here, on the banks of the Blackwater, you can escape everyday life for a moment and lose yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of the park.
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Brantry Lough is a fantastic fishing lake situated just north of Creevelough in County Tyrone. The waters provide a great supply of brown trout that's stocked all year around bringing keen fishermen and their boats to the shores
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The Palace Demense is an important part of Armagh's history. Between 1770 and 1975 the palace was home to the Archbishops of the Church of Ireland. A number of paved and gravel trails will lead you around the park and invite you to discover the nature and history of this 300-acre oasis. The park also features an outdoor gym if you feel like taking your activity up a notch.
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The Mall is a beautifully-kept recreational area in Armagh. It's tree-lined edges and flat paved paths make it the ideal spot for a jog. Enjoy sights of beautiful georgian buildings and colourful flowerbeds as you pass through.
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An information board as you arrive at Brantry Lough describes the nature of the lough and wood. The board goes into detail on the fishing history here and the species you may come across.
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There are 10 hiking trails available around Drumrusk, offering a variety of options for exploring the region's landscapes.
Yes, the majority of hikes around Drumrusk are considered easy, with 8 out of 10 trails falling into this category. These routes are generally under 2 hours with less than 1,000 feet of elevation gain, making them suitable for various fitness levels. An example is the The Mall, Armagh – The Palace Demesne loop from Armagh, which is an easy 4.1 miles (6.7 km) path.
Hikes in Drumrusk vary in length, with many easy trails typically under 2 hours. For instance, the Brantry Lough – Brantry Lough loop from Lough Macronan is a shorter 1.5 miles (2.4 km) trail that takes about 38 minutes. Longer options, like the Armagh Friary loop from Armagh, are moderate and cover about 4.9 miles (7.9 km), taking around 2 hours.
Yes, several circular routes are available. The Brantry Lough – Brantry Lough loop from Lough Macronan is a popular circular trail that leads through woodland and around the lough. Another option is the The Mall, Armagh – The Palace Demesne loop from Armagh, which also offers a pleasant circular experience.
Drumrusk is characterized by verdant drumlins, serene loughs, and mature woodlands. You can expect picturesque scenery with gentle hills and river gorges. Trails often follow riverbanks, such as the River Blackwater, and lead through scenic forest areas like Brantry Wood. The region is known for its lush green meadows and clear lough waters.
Yes, Benburb Valley Park offers historical interest with the ruins of Benburb Castle, a 17th-century fortress overlooking the gorge. The park also features a Servite priory. You can explore these sites along the Benburb Valley Park trail. Additionally, the Navan Fort (Emain Macha) is a significant historical site nearby.
Many of the trails in Drumrusk are categorized as easy and feature well-laid paths, making them suitable for families. Areas like Brantry Lough and Wood offer accessible paths around a scenic fishing lake and through tranquil forest tracks, which are ideal for leisurely strolls with children. Benburb Valley Park also has family-friendly riverside walks.
While specific dog policies can vary by location, many natural areas in Northern Ireland welcome well-behaved dogs on leads. It's generally advisable to keep dogs under control, especially around wildlife and livestock. Always check local signage for any restrictions before heading out.
Parking is generally available at popular trailheads. For instance, areas like Brantry Lough and Wood, and Benburb Valley Park, which are well-known for their walking routes, typically provide designated parking facilities for visitors. It's always a good idea to check specific location details before your visit.
The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally ideal for hiking in Drumrusk, offering milder weather and longer daylight hours. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, especially the 'Bluebell Walk' in Benburb Valley Park, while summer provides lush green landscapes. Autumn also offers beautiful foliage. Winter hikes are possible, but trails may be wetter and daylight shorter.
Yes, Benburb Valley Park, a popular hiking destination, features a café and restrooms within the park facilities. For other routes, it's advisable to check the specific starting points or nearby villages for available amenities before you begin your hike.
The routes in Drumrusk are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from 2 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, scenic loughs, and well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable outdoor experiences.
Absolutely. You can explore Brantry Lough and its surrounding wood, which offers easy hiking opportunities with accessible paths. A tranquil walk along forest tracks also leads to Lough Macronan, situated within Brantry Wood. These areas are perfect for nature lovers.
Yes, Benburb Valley Park features walks on both sides of the River Blackwater, which has carved a beautiful gorge through the countryside. The riverside walks are adorned with mature woodland, offering excellent views of rapids as the Blackwater flows through the valley. You can also find the Blackwater River Walk here.


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