Best attractions and places to see around Keady More offer a blend of natural beauty and historical sites within County Armagh. The area features tranquil rivers and lakes, such as the Cusher River and Camlough Lake, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. Historical landmarks like Gosford Castle and ancient forts contribute to the region's heritage. Visitors can explore a variety of landscapes, from serene woodlands to scenic towpaths.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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The Newry Canal Towpath is a 32-kilometer-long, almost entirely traffic-free green corridor connecting the towns of Portadown and Newry. It follows the towpath of the oldest canal in the British Isles, opened in 1742 to transport coal from County Tyrone to the sea. The Newry Canal Towpath offers an unparalleled cycling experience through the tranquil heart of County Armagh and County Down. This historic route, part of the National Cycle Network Route 9, takes you along a flat and largely asphalted path past fourteen monumental locks and characteristic lock-keeper's cottages. As you follow the waterway, you'll traverse a varied landscape of dense forests and open meadows, passing through welcoming villages like Scarva and Poyntzpass along the way. The path is a haven for wildlife; keep an eye out for kingfishers, swans, and otters that inhabit the reed beds. Whether you cycle the full 32 kilometers or explore just a section, the combination of industrial history and natural beauty makes this one of the absolute gems of Irish cycling routes.
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On the cycle path between Newry and Portadown, the gentle idyll of Northern Ireland unfolds in all its splendor. The route winds its way past lush green meadows where cows graze peacefully, through a wonderfully quiet landscape. The gentle rise and fall of the fields, the vastness of the sky and the gentle rustling of the wind create a unique atmosphere of relaxation. Here you can let your gaze wander into the distance while the path runs picturesquely between fields and hedges. A perfect place to let your bike roll and unwind.
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Camlough Lake is picturesquely nestled between the rolling hills of Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion. Cycling along the narrow roads on the shore, you immediately feel the tranquility that emanates from the long stretch of water. The lake stretches for more than two kilometers and seems like a narrow, silent crack in the landscape - a peaceful place to take a short break or let your gaze wander over the water. I decided to take a little detour and cycled a little closer to the shore on a path. The water was almost still and reflected the range of hills that rise in the background. It may be a paradise for fishermen, but cyclists also enjoy the special atmosphere. The roads around the lake are not very busy and you can cycle in a relaxed manner without having to constantly pay attention to the traffic. One small criticism: some of the access roads are not well signposted, but if you look around a bit, you'll surely find a good place to get to the shore and enjoy the scenery.
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In the heart of Clare Glen, where the forests are thickest and the Cusher River flows gently through the landscape, hikers will encounter two special examples of craftsmanship: the stone bridges of Clare Glen. The first, a delicate miniature bridge, seems to have been made for elves and fairies, so delicate and yet robust as it sits there in the middle of the green thicket. A few steps further rises its big sister, a stately stone bridge of impressive normal size. Both bridges are made of solid stone and bear witness to the masterful architecture of bygone times. As you walk over them, you can hear the gentle rippling of water making its way under the arches. The cool forest that surrounds the bridges offers protection from the midday sun and envelops the hiker in quiet greenery. The chirping of the birds, the rustling of the leaves and the quiet murmur of the water create an atmosphere of peace and contemplation.
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A piece of untouched nature stretches along the Cusher River, taking hikers into a world of silence and serenity. The gentle rippling of the river accompanies every step, creating a soothing melody that carries your thoughts far away. There is a caravan and campsite nearby, which serves as an ideal starting point for exploring this idyllic landscape. It is also convenient that free parking spaces are available at both ends of the highlighted section, which makes the journey particularly comfortable. For hiking enthusiasts, there are three marked trails that suggest different routes through the area. And although they suggest different levels of difficulty, in practice they are all easy to complete. Even with a stroller, exploring here is easy, which again speaks for the good accessibility and condition of the paths. It is the simplicity of this place that makes it so special. No excessive challenges, no hectic crowds of tourists. Just nature, the river and the peaceful sound of the surroundings. A perfect place to escape from everyday life, take a deep breath and enjoy the here and now to the fullest.
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The impressive property tells stories of a time when the Earls of Gosford ruled these green lands. The renowned London architect Thomas Hopper worked on its construction, which began in 1819 and reached its magnificent end in the 1850s. His visionary talent gave the castle its characteristic Norman Revival style - a contemporary witness to the architectural greatness of the 19th century. Considered Ulster's largest listed building, the mighty walls of Gosford Castle have witnessed numerous historical turning points. The Earls of Gosford lived here until 1921, after which the castle's fortunes changed. In 1958, the Department of Agriculture acquired the property and transformed the surrounding countryside into the picturesque Gosford Forest Park - a nature lover's paradise spanning 240 hectares where Ireland's flora and fauna flourish in their full glory. But the years were not kind to the castle and it rapidly fell into disrepair. But like a phoenix rising from the ashes, it was acquired by the Boyd Partnership in January 2006. At a cost of around £4 million and under the watchful eye of a government-appointed commission, the castle was lovingly restored and converted into elegant private apartments. Today, Gosford Castle shines in new splendor and attracts admirers from far and wide.
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A pair of pretty stone bridges, one miniature and one regular sized, lead you over the Cusher River through the dense woodland of Clare Glen.
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This magnificent Grade I listed 19th-century country house is situated just outside the town of Markethill in County Armagh. It is nestled in the 240 hectare Gosford Forest Park, an area teeming with fantastic flora and wildlife. The castle was designed by London architect Thomas Hopper and was built for Archibald Acheson, the 2nd Earl of Gosford.
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The area offers a blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. A highly popular choice is the Newry Canal Towpath, a very flat and scenic 18-mile path perfect for cycling or walking. Another favorite is Cusher River, a tranquil forest area with three easy signed trails. Visitors also enjoy Camlough Lake, nestled between the rolling hills of Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion, offering a peaceful break.
You can explore several historical points of interest. Gosford Castle, a 19th-century country house built in the Norman revival style, is a significant landmark and former Game of Thrones filming location. While now private, its impressive architecture is notable. The Newry Canal Towpath also allows you to see old canal lock gates and gatekeepers' cottages, offering a glimpse into the region's industrial past. Additionally, within Clare Glen, you can find the delicate Clare Glen Stone Bridges, which are considered historical sites.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Newry Canal Towpath is a flat and traffic-free route, ideal for family cycling or walks. Cusher River offers easy, signed trails that are even suitable for pushchairs. Camlough Lake provides a serene environment for a family outing, and the Clare Glen Stone Bridges offer a charming spot for a walk through the woods.
The region is rich in natural beauty. The Cusher River flows through Clare Glen, creating a tranquil environment with dense woodland. Camlough Lake is a picturesque, long, and narrow body of water nestled between the rolling hills of Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion. Other notable natural features include Seagahan Reservoir and local landmarks like Kavanagh's Lake and Gentle Owens Lake.
Absolutely. The Cusher River area in Clare Glen features three easy, signed trails perfect for a peaceful walk. For more extensive hiking, you can explore routes like the 'Camlough Mountain & Lake loop' or 'Camlough Mountain from Camlough', which are moderate difficulty. You can find more details and routes on the Hiking around Keady More guide.
Yes, the area is great for cycling. The Newry Canal Towpath offers a very flat and scenic 18-mile route, ideal for a relaxed ride. You can also cycle along the shores of Camlough Lake, enjoying the tranquil scenery. For more cycling options, check out the MTB Trails around Keady More guide, which includes routes like 'Gosford Castle – Gosford Castle loop'.
Yes, there are mountain biking trails available. For example, the 'Gosford Castle – Gosford Castle loop' is an easy MTB route. More challenging options like 'Carlingford – The Tholsel, Carlingford loop' or 'Kilbroney Caravan Park – Warrenpoint Shore Road loop' are also accessible from the wider region. You can explore these and other routes in the MTB Trails around Keady More guide.
Runners will find several suitable trails. The 'Gosford Forest Park running loop' is a moderate option, and the 'Bessbrook village running loop around Bessbrook Pond' offers an easy run. The Newry Canal Towpath also provides a flat and scenic surface for running. Discover more routes in the Running Trails around Keady More guide.
Yes, the Cusher River area in Clare Glen is noted for its accessibility, with paths suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs, offering an easy way to enjoy nature. The Newry Canal Towpath is also very flat and generally accessible, providing a smooth surface for various users.
The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, ideal for walking, cycling, and exploring the natural features. However, the tranquil beauty of places like Cusher River and Camlough Lake can be enjoyed year-round, with autumn bringing beautiful foliage.
Many of the natural trails and towpaths in the Keady More area are suitable for dog walking, provided dogs are kept under control, especially around wildlife or livestock. The Newry Canal Towpath and the trails around Cusher River are popular choices for walks with canine companions.
For peace and quiet, the Cusher River in Clare Glen is described as a wonderfully tranquil place, offering a world of silence and serenity. Camlough Lake also provides a peaceful break with its calm waters and scenic surroundings, perfect for letting your gaze wander. The Newry Canal Towpath is known for being beautifully peaceful and traffic-free.


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