Overview
Lough Island Reavy is a small, man-made reservoir set into the quiet farmland just outside Kilcoo, County Down. Originally constructed to support local agriculture, the water body has evolved into a dedicated angling reserve and a peaceful stopping point for those exploring the foothills of the Mourne Mountains. Unlike the dramatic, wind-swept lakes found higher in the range, Lough Island Reavy offers still, mirror-like waters that reflect the surrounding hedgerows and distant peaks. It’s a place defined by its calm, drawing visitors who prefer quiet observation and steady pursuits over crowded tourist trails.
Angling & Fishing
The reservoir is the primary draw for local anglers, who have managed the waters through the Kilcoo Angling Club for decades. The club oversees stocking programmes and bank maintenance, ensuring a balanced ecosystem that supports a reliable catch. The main species found in the lough include:
- Pike: Often reaching sizes up to 30 lb, with spring being the most active period.
- Perch: Abundant year-round, typically weighing between 1–2 lb.
- Wild Brown Trout: Smaller in size (1–3 lb) but highly prized by local sports anglers.
- Eels: Frequently caught incidentally along the shallower margins.
Fishing is permitted year-round, though conditions vary with the seasons. Spring brings warmer waters and active pike, while early summer sees trout feeding more aggressively. A permit is required for all anglers. The Kilcoo Angling Club issues day, weekend, and season tickets. As the club operates through local arrangements rather than an online booking system, visitors should contact the Kilcoo community centre or a local information point in advance to secure a permit and confirm current fees.
Walking & Cycling
The perimeter of Lough Island Reavy is linked by a flat, well-trodden path that makes a gentle loop ideal for leisurely walks. The route is straightforward and suitable for most fitness levels, though the earthy track can turn soft after heavy rain. Early mornings offer the best conditions for photography, as low mist often settles over the water before burning off to reveal the rolling hills beyond.
Cyclists will find the reservoir as a key waypoint on the Newcastle / Lough Island Reavy Route, a 24-mile (≈40 km) circular loop mapped by OutmoreNI. The route threads through quiet country roads, passing the reservoir’s edge before climbing towards Castlewellan and Slieve Croob. The loop includes a few steep gradients, particularly on the approach to Leitrim and the descent back towards Newcastle, so riders should check their brakes and consider dismounting on the sharpest inclines. OS map reference J377316 pinpoints the reservoir’s location for route planning.
Wildlife & Photography
The calm, nutrient-rich waters and surrounding agricultural landscape create a reliable habitat for waterfowl and wading birds. Mallards, teal, and occasional kingfishers are regular visitors, while swans and greylag geese frequently appear during migration seasons. The hedgerows lining the banks provide cover for songbirds like blackbirds and robins, making the site a pleasant spot for casual birdwatching without the need for specialist equipment.
Photographers appreciate the reservoir’s reflective surface, particularly in winter when the water can freeze over, as documented during the January 2010 cold snap. The contrast between the still water, the patchwork of County Down farmland, and the rugged Mourne backdrop provides consistent compositional opportunities across all seasons.
Practical Information
- Access & Parking: The lough is freely accessible to the public with no admission charge. Free parking is available at the nearby Lough Island Reavy Cottage, but spaces are limited to the property’s allocated bays. Arriving early during peak fishing weekends helps avoid congestion.
- Facilities: There are no public toilets, shops, or cafes at the reservoir itself. The adjacent cottage offers amenities for overnight guests only. Visitors should plan to use facilities in nearby Kilcoo, Bryansford, or Newcastle, which has a full range of cafes and pubs.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and early summer are ideal for fishing and cycling. Autumn brings vibrant foliage and fewer visitors, while winter offers stark, reflective landscapes for photographers.
- Getting There: From Newcastle, take the A50 south towards Castlewellan, then follow signs for Kilcoo via Tollymore Road. The final approach runs along Lacken Road, which borders the western edge of the reservoir. Public transport options are limited; the nearest bus services stop in Newry, making a car or taxi necessary for the final 10 km.
Nearby Attractions
Lough Island Reavy sits within easy reach of several major outdoor destinations in County Down:
- Tollymore Forest Park: Northern Ireland’s first designated forest park, featuring the River Brydone gorge, historic stone bridges, and ancient pine plantations.
- Castlewellan Forest Park: Home to the Peace Maze, one of the world’s largest permanent hedge mazes, alongside a Victorian castle and lakeside walking trails.
- Mourne Mountains: The broader mountain range offers extensive hiking, climbing, and mountain biking, with routes ranging from gentle valley walks to challenging scrambles up Slieve Donard.
Visitors planning a day out in the area should allow time to explore the quiet village of Kilcoo itself, where local shops and the community centre provide useful information for navigating the wider Mourne foothills.