The best walks and hikes around Clogher

Yes, the Clogher area is well-suited for families and beginners. Many trails are located in forest parks with well-signposted paths. For example, Pavilion in the Park loop from Lurgan is a short, easy walk of just over 3 km. Knockmany Forest Park also offers a variety of gentle strolls suitable for all fitness levels.

Many of the trails in the region are dog-friendly, especially those in open areas and forest parks. However, you should always keep your dog on a lead, particularly near farmland with livestock. Some areas, like nature reserves or specific sections of private land, may have restrictions, so it's best to check for local signage at the trailhead.

The region has several excellent circular routes. For a pleasant walk that combines parkland and history, the Dromore Castle loop from Dromore Cathedral of Christ the Redeemer is a great option. Additionally, the Sliabh Beagh area features 36 way-marked looped walks of varying lengths, providing plenty of circular hiking opportunities.

The Clogher area is rich in history. A key site is St. Patrick's Chair and Well, a large sandstone throne steeped in folklore, which serves as the trailhead for the Sliabh Beagh Way. Within Knockmany Forest, you can visit Anya's Tomb, a Neolithic passage tomb, adding a touch of ancient history to your walk.

Trail lengths vary widely to suit different preferences. You can find short, easy loops like the Oak and Beech Trail in Fardross Forest which is just under a mile. For a more moderate outing, the Pavilion in the Park – Brownlow House loop from Lurgan is around 4.6 km. Longer distance options are also available, such as sections of the 46-km Sliabh Beagh Way.

Most of the established forest parks, such as Knockmany Forest Park and Fardross Forest, have dedicated car parks for visitors. Trailheads for major routes like the Sliabh Beagh Way at St. Patrick's Chair also typically have parking available. For smaller, local trails, parking may be more limited to on-street or lay-by options.

For breathtaking views over the Clogher Valley, the summit of Knockmany in Knockmany Forest Park is a must-visit. The ascent to 700 feet is rewarded with panoramic scenery. For spectacular coastal views, the Clogherhead Cliff Walk is a highly-regarded local favourite, offering stunning vistas of the Mourne Mountains on a clear day.

Yes, the Sliabh Beagh Way is a challenging 46-kilometer route that begins near Clogher at St. Patrick's Chair. This trail is part of the larger Ulster Way and traverses a varied landscape of forest tracks, open moorland, and quiet country lanes, offering a significant challenge for experienced hikers.

The scenery around Clogher is a captivating mix of rolling pastoral landscapes, dense woodlands, and riverside paths. You'll hike through the picturesque Clogher Valley, explore conifer and broadleaved forests in places like Fardross Forest, and traverse the upland heath and blanket bog of the Sliabh Beagh region.

While many trails are in natural settings, the nearby towns and villages like Clogher, Augher, and Ballygawley offer a selection of traditional pubs and cafes for refreshments after your hike. Some popular walking spots, like the harbour near the Headland at Clogherhead, have local food options such as a fish and chip shop available, especially on weekends.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of the woodland trails and the blend of natural beauty with intriguing historical landmarks. The well-maintained paths in the forest parks and the scenic beauty of the Clogher Valley are frequently mentioned as highlights.

There are nearly 20 hiking routes around Clogher available on komoot, with the vast majority being easy or moderate. This includes short parkland loops, riverside walks, and sections of longer-distance paths, providing a wide variety of options for a day out.