The best walks and hikes around Ballynabragget
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450
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Hiking trails around Ballynabragget provide access to a region in County Down, Northern Ireland, characterized by diverse landscapes. The area features rolling green hills, woodlands, and accessible riverside paths. While Ballynabragget is a townland, its location offers proximity to various natural features, including forest parks and the wider Armagh City, Banbridge, and Craigavon area. The terrain supports a range of hiking experiences, from gentle parkland strolls to more challenging ascents on hillsides.
Best hiking trails around Ballynabragget
- The most popular…
Last updated: April 29, 2026
89
hikers
3.70km
00:56
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
73
hikers
5.36km
01:22
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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55
hikers
5.11km
01:18
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
50
hikers
4.73km
01:13
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
hikers
3.25km
00:50
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
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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The waterwheel at Craigavon Lakes is a historical landmark. It was purchased by the council in the 70s from the south of the Province and refurbished to provide energy to the local people. The wheel never got into full swing because of the lack of waterflow, however, in recent years the wheel has been seen turning for the first time!
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Craigavon Balancing Lakes, referred locally as 'The Lakes' are a set of man-made lakes built in the 1970s to control flooding. The route around the lakes is entirely flat and follows a mixture of paved and gravel paths close to the shoreline, which creates some wonderful water views 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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Similarly to a reservoir, these balancing lakes function as a water store. However, instead of storing the water for the purposes of consumption it is utilised to temporarily store flood waters. As the surrounding areas become more built up with hard surfaces, less rain excess water is stored by soil resulting in it routing quicker into the rivers. These balancing lakes help by reducing the volume of rain water reaching the rivers, which prevents flooding. And more importantly for cyclists it has the great byproduct of providing a pretty feature for MTB trails to be built around!
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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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Test your pumping, cornering and jumping skills on this short little pump track
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Ballynabragget?
There are over 20 hiking trails around Ballynabragget, offering a variety of experiences. The region provides options from easy parkland strolls to more moderate paths through diverse landscapes.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hiking routes in the area?
Yes, Ballynabragget and its surroundings offer many easy, family-friendly options. For example, the Pavilion in the Park – Lurgan Park Lake loop from Lurgan is an easy 2.9-mile (4.7 km) path perfect for a pleasant walk. The Craigavon Balancing Lakes loop from Craigavon is another easy route through parkland around two central lakes.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking near Ballynabragget?
The region around Ballynabragget is characterized by diverse landscapes. You'll find magical green rolling hills, woodlands, and accessible lakeside and riverside paths. Areas like Crocknagrally Forest offer mature plantations, while places like Oxford Island National Nature Reserve provide paths along Lough Neagh.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
While most routes directly around Ballynabragget are easy to moderate, the wider County Down area, particularly the Mourne Mountains, offers more challenging hikes with sweeping views. For a more adventurous experience closer by, Slieve Croob near Dromara village provides exhilarating hikes with expansive views over County Down.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions I can see along the trails?
Many trails offer access to interesting sights. You might encounter historical sites like the Moyallan Pillbox or the Moneypenny's Lock and Canal Museum. Natural features include the Craigavon Lakes and scenic viewpoints such as the Directional Sign at the Confluence of the Upper Bann River and Newry Canal.
Are there any circular walking routes available?
Yes, many of the popular routes around Ballynabragget are circular. Examples include the Craigavon Balancing Lakes loop from Craigavon and the Pavilion in the Park – Lurgan Park Lake loop from Lurgan, both offering convenient circular paths.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Ballynabragget?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars. Hikers often praise the accessible parkland walks, the tranquil lakeside paths, and the overall natural beauty of the green rolling hills and woodlands.
Is it possible to reach hiking trails using public transport?
While specific public transport options vary by trailhead, many popular areas like Oxford Island National Nature Reserve and the trails around Craigavon are generally accessible. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for specific routes to your chosen starting point.
Are there good parking facilities near the hiking areas?
Most established hiking areas and parks, such as Castlewellan Forest Park, Oxford Island National Nature Reserve, and Tannaghmore Gardens, offer dedicated parking facilities. For smaller trailheads, roadside parking might be available, but it's always best to check in advance.
What is the best time of year to go hiking around Ballynabragget?
The region is beautiful year-round, but spring and summer offer the mildest weather and vibrant greenery, making them ideal for hiking. Autumn brings stunning foliage, while winter can offer crisp, quiet walks, though some paths might be muddy.
Are there any dog-friendly walking routes?
Many trails in the Armagh City, Banbridge, and Craigavon area are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a lead, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock. Parks like Castlewellan Forest Park and Tannaghmore Gardens often welcome dogs on their trails.
Where can I find longer, moderate hikes in the vicinity?
For a longer, moderate hike, consider the Moyallan Pillbox – Ground Espresso Bars Café loop from Drumnacanvy. This route covers 7.3 miles (11.8 km) and offers a more extended experience through the local landscape.
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