Attractions and Places To See around Annaghmakeonan - Top 9

Along the picturesque route near the River Bann, you'll find the Moyallan Pillbox. Built around 1940 as part of Britain's coastal and inland defences, this compact bunker served as an observation post and machine gun nest. Strategically positioned to guard the river crossing and nearby roads, this robust structure is a reminder of a time when this peaceful landscape was on high alert. For the passing cyclist, it's an intriguing stop; its moss-green walls blend almost seamlessly with the surrounding nature, revealing the bunker's secrets only at the last moment. A raw piece of military heritage that sharply contrasts with the tranquility of the present-day countryside.

The entrance to Lisnamintry Rath (located on Ballygargan Road, near Portadown) is the gateway to one of the few officially protected archaeological monuments in this part of County Armagh. A rath is an early medieval fortified farmstead (c. 500–1000 AD) that formerly offered protection to families and their livestock against raiders. Not visible from the road.

Hollie Berrie is a good place for refreshments on the route at Scarva

The small town of Scarva, nestled between green meadows and the quiet canal, offers a welcome break on my bike tour through Northern Ireland. Here you cycle on well-maintained paths past historic bridges and small villages that give you the feeling that time has stood still. The British flags fluttering along the side of the road remind you that you are in a culturally special area - a detail that reflects the identity of the region. The route is easy to cycle, the surrounding landscape is gently rolling, which makes for pleasant cycling. The view of wide fields and rolling hills invites you to slow down now and then and take in the peace and quiet. A special feature of Scarva is the annual Orange Order March, which transforms the village into a kind of open-air stage once a year and keeps the traditions of this region alive.

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.

The Moyallan Pillbox is an intriguing WWII relic that is an unexpected discovery along the River Bann. The old concrete structure, well camouflaged and reclaimed by nature, stands modestly on a hill overlooking the river. The views from here are particularly rewarding on a clear day when the Bann flows lazily across the landscape. It's hard to imagine that this tranquil scene was once strategically important in protecting access to the north from possible invasions. The Pillbox stands just opposite a petrol station, near the roundabout where several roads meet. The location may seem unspectacular, but with a little imagination you can glimpse the history. The concrete block quietly tells of times gone by as you pedal on, leaving the river behind. A quick stop is well worth it - not for the drama, but for the unassuming way in which history finds its place here.

From the late Iron Age to early Christian times, the island's occupants built circular structures with earth banks or ditches. These were sometimes topped with wooden palisades and wooden framed buildings. As the dwellings were not durable, sometimes referred to as as Fairy Forts ( also known as Lios or Raths from the Irish, referring to an earthen mound ) are the remains of stone circles, ringforts, hillforts, or other circular prehistoric dwellings in Ireland.

On the picturesque banks of the Newry Canal, not far from Portadown, lies a historical gem: Moneypenny's Lock. This lock house, whose history goes back to the beginning of the 19th century, has stood the test of time and today offers visitors a special insight into the past. When you enter the canal museum you feel like you have been transported to another era. The walls bear witness to the days when the lock house was still in full operation and run by the Money family. The constant rippling of the water, the passage through the lock chambers and the hustle and bustle of yesteryear are almost tangible. The exhibition tells the story of Moneypenny's Lock from its early days to the mid-20th century. Through lovingly compiled exhibits and information material, you get a feel for the importance of this place and the people who worked and lived here.