Attractions and Places To See around Ballynarea - Top 5
Best attractions and places to see around Ballynarea include ancient historical sites, natural monuments, and scenic viewpoints. This townland in County Armagh, Northern Ireland, is surrounded by a landscape rich in history and natural beauty, offering diverse experiences for visitors. The area features significant archaeological locations and expansive natural features, providing opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Best attractions and places to see around Ballynarea
- The most popular attractions is Ballykeel Dolmen, a natural monument that features a tripod-shaped capstone…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Ballykeel Dolmen
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Cloverhill Golf Course
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Glasdrumman Lough
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Carrigatuke Viewpoint
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Cloverhill Golf Course
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Popular around Ballynarea
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The Carrigatuke Viewpoint offers you a fantastic view over the vast landscapes of Northern Ireland. From up here, the world seems wide and open, and if the weather is good, you can actually see all six counties. After the climb, I sat down and enjoyed the silence - only the wind blowing over the meadows accompanied me. The view over the rolling hills and green fields is a nice contrast to the hectic everyday life. The route here is not too difficult, but there are a few steeper sections that can make you sweat a bit. But you are rewarded with a really impressive view. There are a few places to rest, and the small stone trigonometer point that sits on the hill is a nice detail that adds a little character to the place. The access roads could be better maintained in some places, but if you are willing to put up with the odd bump, you will not be disappointed. A nice place for a short break on the bike.
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Along Glasdrumman Lough you walk along a calm body of water surrounded by green hills. The lake lies still and reflects the blue sky while the gentle waves break the sunlight. On one side of the road there is a sign telling you about the Poets' Trail - a hiking trail that shares not only the nature but also the history of this region with you. The information board tells you about the nearby O'Neill Castle, of which only ruins remain today. Here you can immerse yourself in the world of old Irish poems and legends that have their place along this trail. It is a place where nature and culture meet.
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As you walk along the road, the vast landscape of the Ring of Gullion opens up before you. On both sides stretches the Cloverhill Golf Course, nestled in the rolling hills at the foot of Mullaghbane Mountain. The well-kept fairways and greens contrast beautifully with the wild nature around them, and you always have clear views of the green expanses framed by the mountain in the distance. It is an interesting sight how the landscaped lawns of the golf course merge with the surrounding nature. The path leads you further through this peaceful scenery, while the backdrop changes with every bend. Here you feel the peace that the golf course radiates, while the surrounding fields and forests give you the feeling of being deep in nature. A relaxing moment on your hike through this varied landscape.
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The Ballykeel Dolmen, also known as the "Witch's Chair", stands alone on the edge of a green river terrace and invites you to take a look back into the past. With its three supporting stones and the imposing capstone, over three metres long, the dolmen looks like a stone sculpture left behind by a long-forgotten culture. The simple but distinctive tripod shape is a testament to the archaic construction that attracted people to this place over 4000 years ago. Excavations around the dolmen have uncovered the remains of a stone mound and Neolithic pottery that tell of the rites and customs of this early community. When you stand among the stones, you feel the mystique of the place - a place that inspires the imagination then and now. Nearby you will find other megalithic structures such as the Portal Tomb of Aughadanove, which together reflect the rich archaeological heritage of the region.
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To be able to see the Ballykeel dolmen, you'll need to take a small detour from Mill Road onto Ballykeel Road. Here, you can view the Ballykeel dolmen and cairn, which is dated between 4000 and 2500 BC
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This section of Lough Road crosses the Cloverhill Golf Course, which you can catch glimpses of at certain points above the side bushes, with Slieve Gullion in the background.
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Next to this part of the road, you can clearly observe Glasdrumman Lough. On one side of the road, there is also an information panel about the Poets Trail, which passes through here, explaining the history of O'Neill Castle.
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If we walk along this road in the fields of the Ring of Gullion AONB, we can observe on both sides the Cloverhill Golf Course, which is located at the foot of Mullaghbane Mountain.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore near Ballynarea?
The region around Ballynarea is rich in history. You can visit the ancient Ballykeel Dolmen, a natural monument dating back to 4000 and 2500 BC, featuring an impressive three-meter-long capstone. Further afield in County Armagh, explore Glasdrumman Lough, where an information panel details the history of O'Neill Castle along the Poets Trail. Other significant historical sites in the wider area include Navan Fort (Emain Macha), the ecclesiastical St. Patrick's Cathedrals in Armagh, and the historic Armagh Robinson Library.
Are there any scenic viewpoints or natural attractions in the Ballynarea area?
Absolutely. For breathtaking panoramic views, head to Carrigatuke Viewpoint, where on a clear day, you can see all six counties of Northern Ireland. You can also enjoy the tranquil beauty of Glasdrumman Lough, a calm body of water surrounded by green hills. The wider County Armagh boasts natural wonders like Slieve Gullion, the highest peak in the county and centerpiece of the Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles.
What outdoor activities are available near Ballynarea?
The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking and walking on trails like 'The Poets' Trail - Creggan Route' or easier loops around Lough Muckno. For cycling enthusiasts, there are road cycling routes such as the 'Ring of Gullion Cycle Tours' which offer moderate to difficult rides. You can find more details on these routes in the hiking guide and road cycling guide for Ballynarea.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Ballynarea?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The ancient Ballykeel Dolmen offers an intriguing historical stop. Glasdrumman Lough provides a peaceful setting for a stroll. In the broader County Armagh, Gosford Forest Park offers woodland trails and lakes, while Palace Demesne Public Park features meadows, formal gardens, and a play park. Tannaghmore Farm and Gardens is another excellent family option with a rare breeds farm.
Where can I find walking trails with varying difficulty levels near Ballynarea?
You'll find a range of walking trails to suit different abilities. For easy walks, consider routes like the 'Lough Muckno loops from Castleblayney' or the 'St. Brigid's Church loop from Silverbridge'. If you're looking for a more challenging hike, 'The Poets' Trail - Creggan Route' is a difficult option. Explore these and more in the easy hikes guide and the general hiking guide for Ballynarea.
What cultural experiences can I have in County Armagh?
County Armagh offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. Visit the Armagh County Museum, the oldest county museum in Ireland, showcasing centuries of local history. The Armagh Observatory and Planetarium is a leading center for astronomical research with interactive exhibits. You can also explore the unique St. Patrick's Cathedrals in Armagh City, or take an orchard tour, especially during the Armagh Food and Cider Festival, to experience the region's famous apple-growing tradition.
Can I play golf near Ballynarea?
Yes, the Cloverhill Golf Course is located at the foot of Mullaghbane Mountain, offering scenic views as you play. It's nestled within the rolling hills of the Ring of Gullion AONB, providing a beautiful backdrop for a round of golf.
What is the Ring of Gullion and what can I do there?
The Ring of Gullion is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty centered around Slieve Gullion, the highest peak in County Armagh. This rugged landscape is known for its unique geological formations, ancient monuments, and rich mythology. You can enjoy scenic drives, hiking trails, and explore sites like a passage tomb and a hidden lake on Slieve Gullion itself. It's also a popular area for cycling, with routes like the 'Ring of Gullion Cycle Tours'.
Are there any castles or historic estates to visit in the area?
While Ballynarea itself is a townland, the wider County Armagh features notable historic estates. Gosford Castle, a 19th-century country home with a medieval appearance, is surrounded by Gosford Forest Park, which is open to the public for woodland trails. Brownlow House, an Elizabethan-style home built in 1836, is another significant historical building located at the edge of Lurgan Park.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Ballynarea?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of ancient history and natural beauty. The Ballykeel Dolmen offers a glimpse into the region's ancient past, inviting reflection. The expansive views from Carrigatuke Viewpoint are highly praised for their impressiveness and tranquility. The peaceful setting of Glasdrumman Lough, combined with its historical context along the Poets Trail, also resonates well with those seeking both nature and culture.
Where can I find parks for leisurely strolls or picnics?
County Armagh offers several beautiful parks perfect for relaxation. Gosford Forest Park provides enchanting woodland trails and picturesque lakes. Palace Demesne Public Park, a 300-acre parkland, features meadows, formal gardens, and a play park. Lurgan Park, Northern Ireland's largest urban park, boasts a 59-acre man-made lake and kilometers of pathways through woodlands and open grassland.
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