Attractions and Places To See around Kircassock - Top 8

Kircassock is historically significant, particularly for its role during World War II. While the original Kircassock House, which served as the 8th U.S. Army Air Force headquarters, is no longer standing, you can still find remnants of the former estate. Two gate lodges associated with the estate remain, one on Dromore Road notably features graffiti from service members stationed there during the war. Additionally, the Lisnamintry Rath Entrance offers a glimpse into ancient history, representing circular structures from the Iron Age to early Christian times, sometimes referred to as 'Fairy Forts'.

Yes, several attractions cater to families. Craigavon Lakes offers family-friendly, traffic-free cycle and walking paths that are wide and suitable for all ages, with plenty of space for picnics. Lurgan Park Lake also provides a lovely path for cycling and walking. For a mix of nature and education, Oxford Island National Nature Reserve features woodland trails, a discovery centre, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

You have several options for walking and cycling. Craigavon Lakes and Lurgan Park Lake both offer pleasant paths for both activities. The Broad Water Cycle Path provides a meandering route by the water's edge. For more extensive options, explore the cycling routes around Kircassock or the easy hikes around Kircassock.

Beyond the historical sites, Kircassock boasts natural beauty. Within the former Kircassock House estate, you can still find a glen with mature trees and some exotic plants from its original gardens. The area is also rich in lakes, including Craigavon Lakes and Lurgan Park Lake, which offer scenic views and recreational opportunities. Further afield, Oxford Island National Nature Reserve provides woodland trails and views of Lough Neagh.

Yes, the Oxford Island National Nature Reserve, located on the southern shore of Lough Neagh, is an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts. It features wonderful gravel and woodland trails, bird watching hides, and is home to a fantastic array of wildlife such as wild rabbits, badgers, otters, buzzards, and herons.

Kircassock offers a variety of cycling routes. You can find easy to moderate road cycling routes, such as the 'Clarehill Sprint – Redhill Climb loop from Moira' or the 'Scarva Village – Lottie's Café loop from Gamblestown'. For touring cyclists, there are options like the 'Loughshore trail route 2 — Moira loop'. You can explore more detailed options in the Road Cycling Routes around Kircassock and Cycling around Kircassock guides.

Absolutely. For easy walks, consider the paths around Craigavon Lakes or Lurgan Park Lake. The Broad Water Cycle Path is also suitable for a relaxed stroll. You can find several easy hiking routes, such as the 'Pavilion in the Park loop from Lurgan' or the 'Dromore Castle loop from Dromore Cathedral of Christ the Redeemer', detailed in the Easy hikes around Kircassock guide.

Visitors appreciate the peaceful and traffic-free environment of places like Craigavon Lakes, which is ideal for families and picnics. The scenic views of the water, especially on cloudy days, are often highlighted as creating a 'mystical' atmosphere. The historical significance of sites like the Lisnamintry Rath Entrance also draws interest for those curious about ancient Irish heritage.

Yes, Lurgan Park Lake is particularly popular with anglers, offering a pleasant setting for fishing alongside its walking and cycling paths.

While Kircassock House itself was demolished after the war, the area still holds historical significance. The site was a key headquarters for the 8th U.S. Army Air Force. All that remains of the sprawling U.S.A.A.F. base are a residential block and a large water tower, though these are on privately owned land. Notably, one of the two gate lodges on Dromore Road still features graffiti from service members stationed there during WWII, offering a tangible link to its wartime past.

Many natural areas and trails around Kircassock are dog-friendly. For instance, the Lisnamintry Rath Entrance is noted as dog-friendly. When exploring, always ensure your dog is under control and check for any specific local regulations or signage regarding pets.