Overview
Craigavon sits on the southeastern shore of Lough Neagh in north County Armagh. Conceived in the 1960s as a linear “new city”, it now links the older towns of Lurgan and Portadown and is centred around the award‑winning Craigavon Lakes – a public park of two artificial lakes, woodland trails and traffic‑free cycle paths.
Just a short drive east lies Craigmore Viaduct, the striking 18‑arch railway bridge that spans the Camlough River valley on the Belfast‑Dublin line. Known locally as the “18 Arches”, it dominates the South Armagh landscape and is a favourite spot for walkers, photographers and train‑spotters.
History / Background
Craigavon
The Craigavon Development Commission was established in October 1965 to transform 6,000 acres of farmland into a modern urban centre named after James Craig, 1st Viscount Craigavon. Architect James Moffatt Aitken designed a modernist layout that separated motor traffic from pedestrians, used roundabouts and placed utilities underground. Although the original masterplan was only partially realised, the core – including the lakes, civic centre and shopping precinct – remains a functional example of 1960s new‑town planning.
Craigmore Viaduct
Construction of the viaduct began in 1849 under Irish civil engineer John Benjamin Macneill. Built from locally quarried granite at Goraghwood, the 402 m structure opened in 1852, providing a vital link on the Dublin‑Belfast railway. Its 18 masonry arches reach a maximum height of 126 ft (38 m), making it the highest viaduct in Ireland. The bridge survived a bomb attack on 2 March 1989 during the Troubles, was swiftly repaired and continues to carry the cross‑border Enterprise service.
What to See & Do
Craigavon
- Craigavon Lakes – Wide, traffic‑free paths wind around the two lakes, perfect for walking, cycling, picnics and bird‑watching.
- Maghery Footbridge – Offers panoramic views of Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles.
- Wave Sculptures – Metal wave‑shaped artworks frame the lake, ideal for quick photo stops.
- Moyallan Pillbox – A well‑preserved WWII concrete defensive position with sweeping views of the River Bann.
- Moneypenny’s Lock & Canal Museum – Explore the industrial heritage of the Newry Canal.
- Lough Neagh Discovery Centre – Wheelchair‑accessible interactive exhibits, café and lake vistas.
- Bannfoot Picnic Area – Quiet riverside spot where the River Bann meets Lough Neagh.
- Lisnamintry Rath Entrance – Remains of an early‑medieval ringfort, listed as a natural monument.
- Oxford Island Nature Reserve – A short drive away, offering wetlands, wildlife hides and walking trails.
Craigmore Viaduct
- Scenic Walks – The Ring of Gullion Way passes close to the viaduct’s base, providing viewpoints of the arches and the Camlough River valley. The viaduct also lies within the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark, a UNESCO Global Geopark offering further walking routes.
- Trainspotting – Watch the Enterprise service cross the viaduct; timing your visit with a scheduled train adds a dynamic element.
- Photography – The stone arches glow at golden hour, making the site a favourite for photographers.
- Nearby Attractions – Derrymore House, the Newry and Mourne Museum at Bagenal’s Castle, Clanrye River, Kiltybane Lake and Camlough Lake are all within a short drive.
Nearby Attractions
If you have extra time, consider visiting other highlights of County Armagh that are within easy reach:
- Ardress House – An 18th‑century National Trust house with beautiful gardens.
- Brownlow House – A historic mansion set in parkland, now a venue for events and tours.
- Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark – Offers additional walking trails, geological sites and visitor facilities.
Practical Information
| Item | Craigavon | Craigmore Viaduct |
|---|---|---|
| Opening hours | Open all year, free access to lakes and trails | Open all year, free access |
| Admission fee | Free | Free |
| Website | N/A (local council information) | Discover Northern Ireland – Craigmore Viaduct |
| Coordinates | Approx. 54.45°N, -6.35°W (Lough Neagh shore) | 54.19427, -6.36784 |
| Parking | Limited car parks at the lakes and at Bannfoot picnic area | Parking available off Craigmore Road near Bessbrook |
| Accessibility | Lakeside paths are wheelchair‑friendly; Discovery Centre fully accessible | Site is open terrain; no formal visitor centre |
Both sites are easily reached by car from the M1 motorway and are well‑served by public transport – Craigavon by regular bus services between Lurgan and Portadown, and Craigmore Viaduct by the Enterprise train between Belfast and Dublin.
Getting There
By car – The M1 motorway provides direct access; follow signs for Craigavon or the Bessbrook area for the viaduct.
By bus – Frequent services run between Lurgan, Portadown and Craigavon town centre.
By train – The Enterprise service stops at Portadown, from where local buses or a short taxi ride reach the viaduct.
Tip: Combine a morning walk around Craigavon Lakes with an afternoon visit to Craigmore Viaduct and the Ring of Gullion Way for a full day of nature, history and spectacular scenery in County Armagh.