Attractions and Places To See around Lurganreagh - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Lurganreagh offer access to a diverse region encompassing historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. The area provides opportunities to explore significant structures, tranquil natural settings, and engaging points of interest. Visitors can experience the geological formations of the Mourne Mountains and Cooley Peninsula, alongside historical towns and reservoirs.
Best attractions and places to see around Lurganreagh
- The most popular attractions is Cloughmore Stone, an other natural monument. This huge erratic stone,…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
Carlingford
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Cloughmore Stone
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Slieve Foye Summit
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Silent Valley Reservoir
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Situated in the Mourne Mountains AONB near Kilkeel, Silent Valley …
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Carlingford Castle (King John's Castle)
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This charming seaside town overlooks the Mourne Mountains, whose silhouette rises along the coast of Northern Ireland. Carlingford is very lively at weekends thanks to its many pubs and restaurants, which attract visitors from the north, and is famous for its oysters. The village has several historical sights, such as the small King John's Castle, with its romantic silhouette overlooking the sea, and Taaffe's Castle, a former 16th-century merchant's house located a little further from the quay.
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Above the medieval street pattern, which dominates the silhouette of Carlingford, stands the imposing ruin of Carlingford Castle, also known as King John’s Castle. This castle was built around 1190 by the Norman knight Hugh de Lacy and was for centuries the strategic key to the entrance of Carlingford Lough.
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Silent Valley Reservoir, nestled in the Mourne Mountains, is a peaceful retreat surrounded by sweeping granite peaks and heathered slopes. Built in the early 20th century to supply water to Belfast and much of County Down, the reservoir combines striking engineering with natural beauty. Visitors can stroll along well-kept paths, admire the Victorian-style dam and impressive Mourne Wall, or simply enjoy the quiet atmosphere by the lakeshore.
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The well-maintained trails take you through impressive scenery, surrounded by the striking peaks of the Mournes. The view of the Mourne Wall, which stretches for 35 kilometers and connects 15 peaks, is particularly impressive. However, some sections can become slippery in wet weather, so caution is advised. A highlight is a visit to Ben Crom Reservoir, which can be reached via an extension of the route. Note that there is a fee to enter the park.
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The hike to the Cloghmór Stone feels like a journey through time. Over 10,000 years ago, the ice brought this massive granite block from Scotland here, and now, weighing an estimated 50 tons, it towers majestically over the landscape. But it's not just the geology that's fascinating - according to legend, it was the giant Finn McCool who threw this enormous stone over Carlingford Lough. To be honest, the legend is a much more exciting explanation, isn't it? Once you've reached the top, you'll not only be greeted by the imposing boulder, but also by a fantastic view of Carlingford Lough and the surrounding hills. It's the perfect place to pause for a moment, take in the vastness and enjoy the peace that this place exudes.
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Here it is worth climbing the mountain
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Wikipedia (Slieve Foy (Irish: Sliabh Feá), 2023-12-02): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slieve_Foy Wikipedia (Lists of mountains in Ireland, 2023-12-02): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lists_of_mountains_in_Ireland MountainViews.ie (Slieve Foye, 2023-12-02): https://mountainviews.ie/summit/298/ TheIrishRoadtrip (“A Guide To The Slieve Foye Loop: Trail, Parking + Handy Info”, 2023-12-02): https://www.theirishroadtrip.com/slieve-foye-loop/
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A beautiful round stone, there is a legend about it but unfortunately we could not find out
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore near Lurganreagh?
The region is rich in history. You can visit the impressive Craigmore Viaduct, an 18-arch structure built in 1852. Armagh, the spiritual capital, hosts two significant St. Patrick's Cathedrals. Additionally, the ancient site of Navan Centre & Fort (Emain Macha) offers interactive exhibits on Ulster's kings. In Carlingford, explore the ruins of King John's Castle, a Dominican monastery, and the Tower House.
Are there any natural beauty spots or scenic viewpoints to visit?
Absolutely. The Cloughmore Stone offers fantastic views over Carlingford Lough. For panoramic vistas, climb Slieve Foye Summit, the highest point of the Cooley Mountains, providing views across to the Mourne Mountains. The Ring of Gullion is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and the Mourne Mountains, a UNESCO Global Geopark, offer stunning landscapes. Don't miss the tranquil Silent Valley Reservoir, nestled amidst the Mournes.
What family-friendly attractions are available around Lurganreagh?
Families can enjoy several spots. Lurgan Park, one of Ireland's largest public parks, features a 59-acre lake and well-maintained paths. Slieve Gullion Forest Park offers a scenic drive, walking trails, and an adventure playpark. The Navan Centre & Fort provides interactive exhibits and a replica Iron Age dwelling. The Armagh Observatory and Planetarium has engaging Full Dome Theatre shows and an Astropark. The Silent Valley Reservoir is also considered family-friendly with its well-kept paths.
Where can I go for outdoor activities like hiking or cycling?
The region is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. The Newry Canal Towpath is ideal for flat, scenic cycling. For hiking, the Mourne Mountains offer extensive opportunities. You can find various hiking routes, including challenging climbs like the Slieve Foye & Barnevave loop, or moderate options such as the Carlingford – Slieve Foye Summit loop. Explore more hiking trails at Hiking around Lurganreagh. For road cycling, routes like the Spelga Reservoir Hill Climb are popular, and you can find more at Road Cycling Routes around Lurganreagh. Mountain biking trails are also available, for example, the Carlingford — Cooley Mountains loop; discover more at MTB Trails around Lurganreagh.
Are there any unique cultural or educational sites nearby?
Yes, the Armagh Observatory and Planetarium is a leading center for astronomical research with interactive exhibits and an Astropark. The Armagh County Museum, located on the Georgian Mall, is Ireland's oldest county museum, showcasing Irish history and collections. The Navan Centre & Fort provides a deep dive into ancient Ulster history.
What is the Carlingford Lough Ferry and what does it offer?
The Carlingford Lough Ferry – Greencastle Pier provides a scenic 20-minute crossing, offering unique perspectives of the Mourne Mountains and the Cooley Peninsula. It carries both vehicles and pedestrians, providing flexibility for your travel plans. It operates seasonally, so it's advisable to check current timetables in advance via their website: carlingfordferry.com.
Can I find places for relaxation or tranquil natural settings?
Certainly. Camlough Lake is a tranquil, narrow lake known for its rich waters and suitability for fishing. The Silent Valley Reservoir, nestled in the Mourne Mountains, is renowned for its peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, with well-kept paths for strolling. Lurgan Park also offers a large, serene environment with a lake and paths for relaxation.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Lurganreagh?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning views, especially from spots like the Cloughmore Stone and Slieve Foye Summit. The historical charm of Carlingford, with its ancient ruins and lively pubs, is also a highlight. The peacefulness of places like the Silent Valley Reservoir and the impressive engineering of structures like the Craigmore Viaduct are often mentioned as memorable aspects of the region.
Are there any unique geological features in the area?
Yes, the Ring of Gullion is a geologically unique landform, recognized as the first ring dyke in the world to be geologically mapped. It forms a natural rampart around the heather-clad Slieve Gullion mountain. The Cloughmore Stone itself is a massive erratic stone, moved by ice over 10,000 years ago, making it a significant natural monument.
What are some options for active recreation beyond hiking and cycling?
For those seeking other active pursuits, the Craigavon Golf & Ski Centre offers Northern Ireland's only outdoor artificial ski slope, alongside golf amenities. The Waves Leisure Complex in Lurgan provides a swimming pool, thermal suite, and gym facilities. Dog owners can also enjoy the secure, purpose-built Unleashed Dog Adventure Park near Lurgan, which includes an agility course.
Can I find attractions that are accessible for wheelchairs?
The Carlingford Lough Ferry – Greencastle Pier is noted as wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenic crossing. While specific accessibility details for all attractions are not provided, the flat and scenic Newry Canal Towpath may also offer accessible sections for gentle strolls or rides.
Most popular attractions around Lurganreagh
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