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Newry Canal Path – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Newry

Routes

Bike touring routes & trails

Newry Canal Path – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Newry

Moderate

5.0

(4)

riders

Newry Canal Path – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Newry

02:32

44.1km

150m

Cycling

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: May 15, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through protected areas

Please check local regulations for:

Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark

Waypoints

Start point

Train Station

Get Directions

4.24 km

Lock Keeper's Cottage Ruins

Highlight • Structure

Between the rustling trees along the Newry Canal Towpath, you'll encounter the tranquil ruin of a lock keeper's cottage. Once, this was the proud and bustling heart of the waterway, where the lock keeper stood ready day and night to operate the heavy wooden canal gates for passing barges. Today, only the robust stone walls remain, slowly being reclaimed by nature.

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6.81 km

Newry Canal Towpath

Highlight • Historical Site

Quiet canal section south of Poyntzpass, where the towpath runs tightly along the narrow water. The bank is lightly overgrown with low trees and hedges, giving the stretch an intimate, green impression. The water is mostly still, forming a straight line through the open agricultural landscape. An even, traffic-free segment ideal for quiet miles on the towpath.

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14.3 km

Penny University Coffee House

Highlight • Cafe

22.1 km

Scarva Village

Highlight • Historical Site

Village on the Newry cycle path. There is also a Scarva pilbox - one of many left over from the 2nd World War. Worth seeking out if you've got the time.

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24.1 km

Newry Canal Path

Highlight • River

This largely flat and completely traffic-free path winds through the heart of counties Armagh and Down, along the tranquil waterway that once formed the lifeline for transporting coal to the Irish Sea. As you pedal over the well-maintained asphalt or fine gravel, you'll be surrounded by lush green embankments, historic stone bridges, and the monumental remains of eighteen locks that bridge the elevation difference in the landscape. A mix of smooth asphalt and easily rideable fine gravel, suitable for almost all types of bicycles.

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29.0 km

Newry Canal Towpath

Highlight • Cycleway

A very flat and reasonably scenic cycle from Newry to Portadown and back. A round trip of about 18 miles. Cycling along the route of the old Newry Canal you get a chance to look at the old canal lock gates and gatekeepers cottages. A recommendation refreshment stop in Poyntzpass is Petty Sessions coffee shop, they have an excellent selection of food, sweet and savoury. You can also do sections of the route or in the opposite direction.

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41.6 km

Newry Ship Canal Fountain

Highlight • Monument

A stroll along the Newry Ship Canal is like a relaxing trip into the maritime history of this city. The gentle rippling of the water accompanies you as you walk along the promenade. The old shipping canal runs through the city and is now a peaceful place where nature and urban life meet.

On the banks you can stroll past trees that provide you with shade and feel the light breeze blowing over the water. The historical significance of the canal is still palpable - it used to be an important trade route, but today it invites you to linger. The water features in the middle of the canal in particular provide a refreshing change and bring life to the quiet surroundings.

The waterfront promenade offers a wonderful view of the mix of old buildings and modern artwork. If you feel like taking a little break, you are sure to find a nice place to relax and observe.

Translated by Google •

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44.1 km

Newry Train Station

Highlight • Rest Area

Trains to Dublin and Belfast

Tip by

44.1 km

End point

Train Station

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

37.3 km

3.25 km

3.08 km

323 m

172 m

Surfaces

44.1 km

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (70 m)

Lowest point (0 m)

Weather

Friday 26 June

20°C

16°C

83 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 32.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

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Newry Canal Path – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Newry

Lock Keeper's Cottage Ruins

Newry Canal Towpath

Penny University Coffee House

Scarva Village

Newry Canal Path

Newry Canal Towpath

Newry Ship Canal Fountain

Newry Train Station

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