Top 9 Lakes around Annaloist
Best lakes around Annaloist are found in a region characterized by significant aquatic attractions, primarily Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles. This area in County Armagh, Northern Ireland, offers a mix of natural and engineered lakes. The landscape provides diverse habitats and recreational opportunities for visitors.
Best lakes around Annaloist
- The most popular lakes is Craigavon Lakes, a lake with family-friendly, traffic-free cycle and walking paths. The paths are wide and suitable for families, offering…
Last updated: October 3, 2026
Craigavon Lakes
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Wave Sculptures Overlooking Lough Neagh
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Lough Neagh
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Bannfoot Picnic Area
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Lurgan Park Lake
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Lough Neagh is a real gem for cyclists, especially if you enjoy pedalling along the water. The paths around the lake offer a varied mix of rolling shoreline landscapes, gravel paths and beautiful viewpoints that give you a different perspective of the water every time. What makes this place special is not just the nature, but also the stories that are in the air here - from sunken kingdoms to legendary giants who are said to have created the lake with a single throw. The atmosphere here changes constantly with the weather: on clear days the water sparkles in the sun, while clouds cast a mystical veil over the lake. The picnic areas along the shore invite you to take a short rest and watch the swans and ducks gliding leisurely across the surface. But not everything is idyllic - recent environmental problems such as the blue-green algae plague are a constant theme. It shows that this magical place needs care and attention to maintain its charm. The best way to do this is on a bike that can handle going off the beaten track. The wind can sometimes blow strongly across the lake, which requires a bit of extra energy, but you will be rewarded with great views. A tour around Lough Neagh combines history, nature and small adventures - an experience that always reveals new facets.
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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 wave-shaped metal sculpture seems to blend gently into the landscape on the shores of Lough Neagh, as if it were merging with the water itself. In the background lies Ireland's largest lake, whose vastness and still surface exude a special sense of calm. The reflective surfaces of the sculpture catch the light and reflect it back - a play with the elements that subtly enlivens the surroundings. Here you can pause for a moment and enjoy the view. You might sit on a picnic blanket, letting your gaze wander over the glittering surface of the water while breathing in the fresh air. All around you, the nature reserve is lively but at the same time peaceful, and the sculpture is a reminder of how closely art and nature are connected here. A beautiful place to take in the impressions before continuing on your path.
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Lough Neagh is the largest freshwater lake in the UK and Ireland, it contains over 800 billion gallons of water. Lough Neagh has a unique and diverse habitat with many rare species of plants, bugs, waterfowl, birds and fish. But it isn’t just the wildlife and the beauty of the landscape that make Lough Neagh so unique. It is also the colourful myths and legends. It is said to have its very own Atlantis! According to myth the people of one of the kingdoms of ancient Ireland had a magical spring of freshwater. When the people became greedy the spring rose up and flooded the kingdom, leaving an underwater city beneath.
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Great views of Lough Neagh with the welcome addition of picnic benches to watch over the waters while you stop for a snack.
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A set of metal structures resembling a wave overlooks Lough Neagh. Lough Neagh is the largest lake in Ireland and provides 40% of Northern Ireland's water. There are some wonderful views on offer here over this great expanse of water so pull up a picnic blanket and enjoy the views for a moment before going off to explore the rest of this beautiful nature reserve.
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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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Craigavon Lakes with family friendly, traffic free, cycle and walking paths and even some single-track gravel paths.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes around Annaloist for family activities?
For family-friendly outings, Craigavon Lakes offers traffic-free cycle and walking paths, ideal for all ages. Lurgan Park Lake, within Northern Ireland's largest urban park, also provides a picturesque setting with a play area and rowing boats. Both Craigavon City Park Lakes and Lough Neagh feature amenities and accessible paths suitable for families.
Where can I find easy walking or cycling paths near Annaloist's lakes?
You'll find extensive networks of easy walking and cycling paths around the lakes. Craigavon Lakes has wide, traffic-free routes, including some gravel sections for variety. Craigavon City Park Lakes offers a flat, 3-mile route around both lakes, suitable for wheelchairs and part of the National Cycle Network. The Lough Neagh Cycling Trail also provides opportunities for cycling along the water's edge.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes near Annaloist?
Lough Neagh is a haven for wildlife, boasting a diverse habitat that supports numerous rare species of plants, insects, waterfowl, birds, and fish. Nature reserves like Oxford Island, located on its shores, are excellent for bird-watching. Lurgan Park Lake is stocked with various coarse fish, and the surrounding parkland supports diverse flora and fauna.
Are there opportunities for fishing at the lakes near Annaloist?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Lurgan Park Lake is well-stocked with coarse fish such as Roach, Bream, Tench, Pike, Perch, and Rudd. The North Lake at Craigavon City Park is designated as a rainbow trout fishery and is regularly stocked, offering options for fishing from boats.
What water sports are available on Lough Neagh?
Lough Neagh offers a wide array of water sports. Visitors can enjoy boating, paddleboarding, windsurfing, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, waterskiing, and wakeboarding, with many of these activities available at Ballyronan Marina.
Are there any cafes or facilities near the lakes?
Yes, the Lough Neagh Discovery Centre, situated on the shores of Lough Neagh, features a cafe with panoramic views across the lake, along with a gift shop. Additionally, Bannfoot Picnic Area offers picnic tables where the River Bann flows into Lough Neagh, providing a quiet spot to rest and refuel.
What are the best viewpoints to enjoy the scenery of the lakes?
For stunning views, the Wave Sculptures Overlooking Lough Neagh provide a unique perspective of Ireland's largest lake. The Lough Neagh Discovery Centre also offers panoramic views from its cafe. Along the shores of Lough Neagh and Craigavon Lakes, you'll find numerous spots to pause and enjoy the water.
Are there any historical or cultural points of interest related to the lakes?
Lough Neagh is steeped in myths and legends, including tales of sunken kingdoms and giants. The Lough Neagh Discovery Centre offers insights into the area's natural and cultural heritage. Lurgan Park, home to Lurgan Park Lake, has historical significance as part of the former Brownlow estate and features the majestic Coalbrookdale Fountain.
What outdoor activities, like hiking or running, can I do near these lakes?
The area around Annaloist's lakes offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, including routes around Craigavon Lakes and Oxford Island National Nature Reserve. For hiking, there are easy trails such as the Oxford Island National Nature Reserve loop. Mountain biking is also popular, with routes like the Craigavon Balancing Lakes loop. You can explore more options on the easy hikes around Annaloist guide, the running trails around Annaloist guide, and the MTB trails around Annaloist guide.
Are the lakes and their surrounding areas accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, accessibility is a key feature in some areas. The Lough Neagh Discovery Centre is fully accessible. The paths around Craigavon City Park Lakes are flat and suitable for wheelchair users, being part of the National Cycle Network Route 9.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Annaloist?
Visitors particularly enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, unspoiled scenery, and diverse recreational opportunities. The wide, traffic-free paths at Craigavon Lakes are highly appreciated by families. Many also value the natural beauty and wildlife of Lough Neagh, especially the varied cycling routes and peaceful picnic spots like Bannfoot Picnic Area.
Can I rent boats to explore the lakes?
Yes, at Lurgan Park Lake, visitors have the option to rent rowing boats to enjoy the water. For Lough Neagh, various water recreation activities, including boating, are available at locations like Ballyronan Marina.
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