Top 4 Lakes around Benagh Upper
Best lakes around Benagh Upper are found within the broader region, particularly near the Mourne Mountains. This area is characterized by its natural landscapes, including reservoirs, mountain loughs, and smaller ponds. The region serves as a significant natural resource, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and quiet contemplation. Its geography features a mix of valleys, hills, and water bodies, providing diverse natural environments.
Best lakes around Benagh Upper
- The most popular lakes is Silent Valley Duck Pond, a lake that…
Last updated: June 17, 2026
Silent Valley Duck Pond
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Red Bog Pond
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Even with the new gravel path this area can get quite boggy so best to wear the boots.
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Rostrevor Forest
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View of Carlingford Lough from Mourne AONB
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View of Northern Ireland
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The Duck Pond feels like a calm secret waiting to be discovered. Recommended by hikers and tucked into a protected area, it’s a gentle spot where water glimmers among reeds and mountains frame the quiet mirror below.
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The well-signposted paths lead you through dense forests and offer impressive views of Carlingford Lough and the Mourne Mountains. The mountain bike routes in particular are varied and require both fitness and technique. However, some sections can be slippery in wet weather, so caution is advised. A highlight is the Cloughmore Stone, a huge boulder that was transported here during the last ice age. The approach there is steep, but the view makes up for the effort.
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Beautiful Forest features scenic trails with amazing views of Carlingford Lough, especially from The Cloghmore Stone, a 40 tonne granite boulder which was deposited here at the end of the last ice age. The Oak wood is a Special Area of Conservation believed to be over 250 years old. It is a remnant of the old oak woodlands that clothed the lower slopes of the Mournes several centuries ago. Most of these oak woods were cleared during the 18th and 19th centuries for use in boat building.
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Nice duck pond with picnic benches and kids play park
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Nice and peaceful place with a bench that's perfect for resting weary legs and watching the wildlife around the lake. Even with the new gravel path this area can get quite boggy so best to wear the boots.
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Amazing views of Rostrevor national park and the coast from here. The trails are as good as the views too, with loads of interesting up and downhill sections. A great place to ride off-road!
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This way you can enjoy great views over the water to Northern Ireland. As the crow flies, the neighboring country is only a few kilometers away.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular lakes and water features around Benagh Upper?
While Benagh Upper itself is a townland, the broader region, particularly near the Mourne Mountains, offers several notable water features. Visitors frequently enjoy the Silent Valley Duck Pond for its quiet ambiance and natural beauty. Other popular spots include the View of Carlingford Lough from Mourne AONB, offering stunning coastal vistas, and the peaceful Red Bog Pond, known for wildlife observation.
Are there family-friendly lakes or activities near Benagh Upper?
Yes, the Silent Valley Duck Pond is highly recommended for families, featuring picnic benches and a kids' play park. Additionally, Rostrevor Forest, which offers scenic trails and views of Carlingford Lough, is also family-friendly and includes facilities and a cafe.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes in the region are rich in wildlife. The Red Bog Pond is a great spot for wildlife observation. In the wider region, Upper Lough Erne is known for red squirrels, pine martens, and various bat species, while Portmore Lough attracts thousands of ducks, whooper swans, greylag geese, dragonflies, and butterflies throughout the year. Lough Neagh is home to grey herons and mute swans.
Are there opportunities for hiking or cycling near the lakes?
Absolutely. The area around Benagh Upper is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking routes, including easy walks and more challenging trails, as well as cycling routes. For detailed options, explore the hiking guides and cycling guides for the region. Rostrevor Forest also features varied mountain bike routes.
What are the best places for scenic views of the lakes?
For breathtaking vistas, the View of Carlingford Lough from Mourne AONB offers amazing views of Rostrevor National Park and the coast. Another excellent spot is the View of Northern Ireland, providing great views over the water. The Silent Valley Reservoir, nestled in the Mourne Mountains, also provides impressive scenery, including views of the Mourne Wall.
Is Silent Valley Reservoir accessible, and are there any fees?
Silent Valley Reservoir is located in the heart of the Mourne Mountains and offers well-maintained trails. It is known for its peaceful atmosphere. There is a fee to enter the park, which helps maintain its facilities and natural beauty.
Are there any hidden gems or tranquil spots among the lakes?
The Silent Valley Duck Pond is often described as a 'calm secret' and a gentle spot where water glimmers among reeds, framed by mountains. It's recommended by hikers for its quiet ambiance. The Blue Lough, embedded in a wide trough valley in the southern Mournes, also offers a picturesque and serene environment for pausing and appreciating nature.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes and trails?
Yes, Rostrevor Forest, which includes scenic trails and views of Carlingford Lough, is dog-friendly. Always ensure your dog is kept under control and follow any local signage regarding pet regulations.
What facilities are available near the lakes, such as cafes or parking?
Rostrevor Forest provides parking, facilities, and a cafe, making it a convenient stop. The Silent Valley Reservoir also has facilities, though there is an entrance fee. For other lakes, it's advisable to check specific location details, as amenities can vary.
What makes Lough Neagh unique among the region's lakes?
Lough Neagh stands out as the largest lake in the British Isles, spanning five of Northern Ireland's six counties. It's a hub for various water sports like canoeing, banana boating, and windsurfing, and offers opportunities for hiking and cycling at nearby Peatlands Park. It's also rich in wildlife, including grey herons and mute swans.
Are there any lakes known for fishing or other water-based activities?
Lough Melvin is particularly famous as an angling lake, popular for fishing salmon, ferox trout, and the gillaroo, a species unique to the lake. It also offers other water-based activities such as canoeing, jet skiing, and kayaking. Lough Neagh, as the largest lake, is also a popular spot for various water sports.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Benagh Upper?
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for hiking, cycling, and enjoying wildlife, with longer daylight hours. Autumn provides beautiful foliage. While some trails can be slippery in wet weather, the natural beauty of the lakes can be appreciated year-round, with winter offering a serene, quiet experience.
Most popular attractions around Benagh Upper
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