County Armagh Travel Guide

Planning a trip to County Armagh? Get ready to explore the rich cultural and natural gems of Northern Ireland. From historical landmarks to scenic views, this guide covers it all.


Introduction to County Armagh

County Armagh is one of the six counties located in Northern Ireland, UK. Known as “The Orchard County,” it is a county steeped in history, culture, and stunning natural scenery. The county has a population of approximately 175,000 and is home to the city of Armagh, which is the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland.

List of Places to Visit in County Armagh

Here is a list of must-visit places in County Armagh:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Armagh is home to many cultural landmarks and museums. Some of the most significant ones include:

  • Armagh Observatory and Planetarium: Offering fascinating insights on space exploration and astronomy, the observatory is a haven for science geeks. Visitors can stargaze on the grounds or view the stars at one of the planetarium’s multimedia shows.

  • Navan Centre and Fort: An excavation of the ancient Irish royal seat of Emain Macha, Navan Centre and Fort offer visitors an excellent opportunity to explore Irish mythology and history.

  • Armagh County Museum: Discover Armagh’s history through various artifacts and exhibits at the Armagh County Museum. From prehistoric times to modern-day, the museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, offering visitors a glimpse into Armagh’s past.

Natural Attractions of County Armagh: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

County Armagh boasts several natural and stunning landmarks. Some of the most notable ones include:

  • Slieve Gullion Forest Park: A perfect place for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers, Slieve Gullion is the highest mountain in Armagh. The forest park offers various trails of varying difficulty levels, and the view from the summit is spectacular.

  • Lough Neagh: Lough Neagh is a massive freshwater lake located in Northern Ireland. It is the largest lake in the British Isles and offers several activities such as boating, fishing, and bird watching.

  • Gosford Forest Park: A perfect location for a family day out, the forest park is filled with beautiful walking trails, picnic areas, and wildlife watching opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of County Armagh

County Armagh has some of the most stunning hiking and biking routes. Some of the most popular ones include:

  • The Ring of Gullion Way: A 37-mile circular walk that takes you through the rolling hills and scenic countryside of the Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

  • Loughgall Country Park Trail: A gentle 1.6-mile walk around the beautiful Loughgall Country Park. The trail offers excellent views of the surrounding countryside.

  • Slieve Gullion Summit Trail: A challenging 4.8-mile hike to the summit of Slieve Gullion. The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in County Armagh: Activities and Tours

County Armagh has plenty of activities and tours to offer. Some of the best ones include:

  • Armagh Walking Tours: One of the best ways to explore Armagh’s rich history and culture is through a walking tour. The Armagh Walking Tour takes you through the city’s significant landmarks and museums, giving you a glimpse of Armagh’s past and architecture.

  • Armagh Cider Company Tour: Experience the taste of Armagh by visiting the Armagh Cider Company. The special guided tour takes you through the process of making cider and ends with a tasting.

  • Armagh Observatory Public Astronomy Events: A chance to gaze at the stars through a telescope and attend astronomy events is a must-do during your visit to Armagh Observatory.

Week-Long Itinerary for County Armagh

Here is one suggested week-long itinerary for County Armagh:

Day 1: Explore the city of Armagh, including St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh County Museum, and The Palace Demesne.

Day 2: Visit Navan Centre and Fort, an archaeological site excavated from an ancient Irish royal seat.

Day 3: Experience the taste of Armagh by visiting the Armagh Cider Company or visiting one of the local farmer’s markets.

Day 4: Hike up to the summit of Slieve Gullion or explore Lough Neagh.

Day 5: Visit the Gosford Forest Park for some outdoor adventures or check out the Armagh Observatory’s astronomy events.

Day 6: Go for a gentle walk around the beautiful Loughgall Country Park.

Day 7: Take a relaxing stroll around the Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Food and Drink Scene of County Armagh

Must-Try Dishes

County Armagh’s food scene offers a wide variety of dishes with cultural influences. Here are some of the must-try dishes during your visit:

  • Ulster Fry: A classic Northern Irish dish consisting of bacon, sausages, eggs, black and white pudding, and soda bread, is a must-try dish in County Armagh.

  • Potato Bread and Soda Farl: Traditionally an Irish staple, these two dishes are sure to fill you up.

  • Armagh Bramley Apple Pie: A sweet and juicy apple pie made with locally grown bramley apples is a must-try dessert.

Local Beverages

County Armagh has a diverse range of local beverages, including:

Where to Stay in County Armagh: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

County Armagh has an excellent range of accommodations, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Armagh City Hotel: A luxurious hotel in the heart of Armagh city, it offers excellent facilities for a comfortable stay.

  • Charlemont Arms Hotel: A traditional hotel located near Armagh’s historical landmarks, it offers comfortable rooms and excellent dining options.

  • Glenavon House Hotel: A four-star hotel that offers luxury amenities such as spa facilities and swimming pools.

What to Buy in County Armagh: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

County Armagh offers a range of locally produced handicrafts, souvenirs, and food items to bring home as a reminder of your trip. Some of the best ones include:

  • Armagh Bramley Apples: A famous product from Armagh, these apples are used in many local dishes and can be a great souvenir to take back home.

  • Handmade Pottery: Located in the scenic village of Rostrevor, this pottery studio creates beautiful handmade pots and vases. They make great souvenirs to take back home.

  • Armagh Cider Company Products: The Armagh Cider Company offers locally produced ciders and apple juice. These products are perfect to take back home and enjoy later.

Local Culture and Customs of County Armagh

County Armagh has a rich history and culture influenced by numerous factors. From Celtic heritage to Christian religious influence, the locals take pride in their culture. Some of the most prominent aspects of County Armagh’s culture are:

  • The Irish language, and traditions and rituals associated with the land.

  • Folk music and the arts are an essential part of Armagh’s cultural heritage.

Best Time to Visit County Armagh

The best time to visit County Armagh is during the summer months of July to August. The weather is pleasant, and most of the outdoor activities and attractions are open during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of County Armagh

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

  • Try the locally produced food and drink.

  • Explore the county’s cultural and natural landmarks.

Don’t:

  • Offend locals by displaying bad manners or insulting local customs.

  • Litter in the beautiful countryside and parks.

  • Speak disparagingly of the country and its immense cultural heritage.

Safety and Health

Safety in County Armagh

County Armagh is generally safe for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, it is always advisable to take precautions such as storing your valuables securely and not leaving them unattended. Additionally, visitors to rural areas should be cautious on narrow roads and be mindful of the occasional farm animal that runs free.

Health in County Armagh

County Armagh has excellent healthcare facilities offering state-of-the-art treatment and care. Visitors are advised to carry travel insurance covering medical expenses before commencing the journey.

Getting to County Armagh: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near County Armagh

The nearest airports to County Armagh are the Belfast International Airport and the Dublin Airport. From there, visitors can take a train or bus to Armagh city.

Bus Stations Near County Armagh

  • Armagh Bus Station: Located in the city center, it offers local and regional services.

  • Craigavon Bus Station: Located in the town of Craigavon.

Other Options

  • Train: The nearest train station to Armagh is Portadown train station, which is 15 kilometers from Armagh.

  • Car: Visitors can drive to Armagh, and there are several car rental companies available at the airports.

How to Get Around in County Armagh

There are several transportation options for visitors to explore the county, including:

  • Car Rental: Renting a car is an excellent option for visitors who want more freedom to explore the county at their own pace.

  • Bus: The local bus services offered by Translink are a safe and economical way for visitors to get around.

  • Taxi: Visitors can hire a taxi to explore the county, especially if they are short on time.

Where to Go Next from County Armagh: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

County Armagh is situated in the heart of Northern Ireland, providing an excellent base for exploring the country’s other regions. Here are some of the best nearby destinations:

  • Belfast: Northern Ireland’s capital city is only an hour’s drive from Armagh and offers a range of attractions, including the Titanic Belfast and St. George’s Market.

  • Giant’s Causeway: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this unique natural wonder is a two-hour drive away from Armagh, but it is well worth the journey.

Conclusion

County Armagh is a treasure trove of natural and cultural beauty waiting to be explored. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors are sure to have an unforgettable trip to the heart of Northern Ireland. From historic landmarks and museums to breathtaking natural scenery, County Armagh is the perfect destination for those seeking an authentic cultural experience.

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