Cycle NI - Your definitive guide to cycling in Northern Ireland

Orchard County

Whilst this route can be ridden at any time of the year, without doubt the best time is during May, when the orchards (famous for their Bramley apples) which line many of the quiet roads are in full bloom.

County

Armagh

Distance

33 miles

Nearest Town

Loughgall

OS Map

Route Type

Parkland and Grassland, Riverside

Route Shape

Circular

AONB

Other Area

Grid Ref (Start)

H908522

Public Roads

On Public Road

Grid Ref (End)

H908522

Terrain

Medium gradient route. Well surfaced tarmac roads.

Point of Interest

Loughgall Country Park
Peatlands Country Park
Blackwater River

Route Description

Starting at Loughgall’s Country Park the route
heads north towards the National Trust property of Ardress House, just off to your right on the B28. After crossing the B26 you cross several bridges over the former Great Northern, Portadown to Omagh railway line and climb to pass close to a windmill stump from where the landscape south of Lough Neagh lies before you. Continuing northwards, the route meets
the Loughshore Trail close to where the River Bann flows into the Lough and turns west towards Maghery and on to Peatlands Country Park. You then head south and follow quiet roads past the NT property of The Argory (pay a visit to Aunt
Ida’s tea room) and through the villages of Charlemount and Blackwatertown. Here the route follows the line of the former Ulster Canal on the river Blackwater before returning to Loughgall. After the cycle ride take a while to explore the park with possibly a walk round the lake and grounds.

Getting to the Start

Loughgall is situated North West of Armagh. The Ballygasey B77 road leaves Armagh town centre and passes through Loughgall. Look out for signs for Loughgall Country park.