Top 6 Lakes around Ballyworkan
Best lakes around Ballyworkan are found in the surrounding County Armagh, Northern Ireland, as Ballyworkan itself does not host prominent lakes. This region offers a variety of lakes, from large man-made bodies of water to serene natural reserves. These locations provide opportunities for outdoor activities and offer scenic landscapes.
Best lakes around Ballyworkan
- The most popular lakes is Craigavon Lakes, a lake that features family-friendly, traffic-free cycle and walking paths, including some single-track gravel sections. It is a hub…
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Craigavon Lakes
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Loughgall Country Park Lake
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Lurgan Park Lake
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Bench With a View of Lough Neagh, Oxford Island
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Oxford Island National Nature Reserve
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The paths are wide and perfect for families, as there are no cars to disturb you. As you glide along the car-free cycling and hiking trails, you can enjoy the view of the water - especially when the sky is cloudy, the lake has a very special atmosphere, almost mystical. The route is mostly asphalt, but there are also some gravel sections that provide some variety. These single-track paths add a certain challenge to the route without being really demanding. Ideal if you prefer to take it easy, but still don't want to just walk on smooth asphalt. If you want to take a break, the lake offers many corners to catch your breath and have a picnic. There is enough space on the banks to rest a bit and enjoy the surroundings to the fullest.
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At Loughgall Country Park you can expect a varied mix of gravel, concrete and cobbled paths that meander through quiet woodland. The trees cast long shadows on the ground, especially in autumn when the leaves glow in warm tones and crackle under your tires. The nearby lake with its still waters invites you to linger - it is often full of anglers trying their luck at coarse fishing. For a short breather, it is worth stopping at the café, which offers you the opportunity to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere with a cup of tea. The golf course on site provides additional variety if you want to experience a little nature away from the cycle paths. A quiet place that impresses with its variety and is ideal for a relaxed round on the bike without being too demanding.
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On your hike around Oxford Island, you can enjoy the scenery to the fullest. A bench on the shore invites you to sit down for a moment and enjoy the view of Lough Neagh. The gentle lapping of the water and the swaying trees create a peaceful atmosphere - an ideal place to just take a deep breath. At Kinnagoe Marina, the boats rock in the water, their masts reaching silently into the sky. The reflections in the water and the quiet clinking of the rigging put you in a maritime mood. As you walk further, dense bushes alternate with sparse forest patches through which you can look through and the evening sun's rays illuminate the path. It is a beautiful place to experience nature and tranquility before continuing your hike.
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The beautiful Oxford Island National Nature Reserve is located on the southern shore of Lough Neagh. The reserve hosts a number of wonderful gravel and woodland trails as well as bird watching hides, a discovery centre, marina, and a bushcraft centre. The reserve is also home to a fantastic array of wildlife such as wild rabbits, badgers, otters, buzzards, and herons, so keep your eyes peeled as you jog along.
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A pretty lake with a lovely path for cycling / walking around. The lake is also popular with anglers.
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Loughgall Country Park with gravel, concrete and paved paths through beautiful woodland and a lake for some coarse fishing, with toilets/coffee shop onsite and a golf course.
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Craigavon Lakes with family friendly, traffic free, cycle and walking paths and even some single-track gravel paths.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes to visit near Ballyworkan for outdoor activities?
While Ballyworkan itself doesn't host major lakes, the surrounding County Armagh offers several excellent options. Craigavon Lakes are a hub for watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding, and feature extensive walking and cycling paths. For a more serene experience with fishing and walking, Loughgall Country Park Lake provides quiet woodland trails and coarse fishing opportunities.
Are there family-friendly lake activities around Ballyworkan?
Yes, several lakes in the area are ideal for families. Craigavon Lakes offer family-friendly, traffic-free cycle and walking paths, a large play area, and watersports. Lurgan Park Lake, located within Northern Ireland's largest urban park, also has a large play area, rowing boats for hire, and 5 km of pathways suitable for all ages.
Where can I go for easy walks around lakes near Ballyworkan?
For easy walks, Lurgan Park Lake offers a lovely path for cycling and walking around its perimeter, set within a large urban park. Craigavon Lakes also feature extensive, mostly asphalt paths that are perfect for relaxed strolls, with some gravel sections for variety.
What natural features and wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes near Ballyworkan offer diverse natural beauty. At Oxford Island National Nature Reserve, located on Lough Neagh, you can explore gravel and woodland trails and spot wildlife such as wild rabbits, badgers, otters, buzzards, and herons from bird watching hides. Craigavon Lakes support diverse wildlife, including orchids, various fish, birds, and otters.
Are there opportunities for fishing at the lakes?
Absolutely. Lurgan Park Lake is well-stocked with roach, bream, and tench, offering excellent coarse angling with 20 fishing stands. The North Lake at Craigavon Lakes is designated as a rainbow trout fishery and is regularly stocked. Loughgall Country Park Lake is also a popular spot for coarse fishing.
What historical or cultural sites are near the lakes?
Near Lurgan Park Lake, you can see Brownlow House, which adds a historical architectural element to the landscape. The lake itself was historically dug during the Famine. The majestic Coalbrookdale Fountain, one of only four remaining of its type globally, is also a notable landmark within Lurgan Park.
Can I go cycling around the lakes?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. Craigavon Lakes are encircled by an extensive network of walking and cycling paths, including a three-kilometre perimeter cycle path that forms part of the National Cycle Network Route 9. Lurgan Park Lake also has a lovely path suitable for cycling.
Are there cafes or facilities available near the lakes?
Yes, some locations offer facilities. Loughgall Country Park Lake has a café on-site, perfect for a short breather. Oxford Island National Nature Reserve features a discovery centre and a marina, providing amenities for visitors.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes besides walking and cycling?
Beyond walking and cycling, you can enjoy various activities. Craigavon Lakes are a hub for watersports like kayaking, paddleboarding, speed boat rides, and inflatable obstacle courses. The park also features a purpose-built pump track and a 10.6 km family mountain bike trail. For more routes in the wider area, check out the Cycling around Ballyworkan guide.
Are there any challenging walks or trails around the lakes?
While many lake paths are easy, you can find more challenging options in the broader region. For instance, the Running Trails around Ballyworkan guide includes routes like the 'Ground Espresso Bars Café – Craigavon Lakes loop from Portadown' which is rated as difficult, offering a longer and more strenuous experience.
Can I find tranquil spots for nature observation?
Yes, for peace and quiet amidst nature, Oxford Island National Nature Reserve on Lough Neagh offers serene gravel and woodland trails, as well as bird watching hides. The Bench With a View of Lough Neagh, Oxford Island provides a peaceful atmosphere to enjoy the scenery and take a deep breath.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes near Ballyworkan?
Visitors particularly enjoy the variety of experiences. Many appreciate the family-friendly, traffic-free paths at Craigavon Lakes, which are ideal for cycling and walking. The peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for fishing at spots like Loughgall Country Park Lake are also highly valued. The scenic views and wildlife at Oxford Island National Nature Reserve are also a big draw.
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