Overview
Lurgan Park, set behind the market town of Lurgan in County Armagh, is the largest urban park in Northern Ireland and the second‑largest on the island after Dublin’s Phoenix Park. Spanning more than 250 acres, the park is centred on a man‑made lake and criss‑crossed by five kilometres of well‑maintained paths that wind through mature woodland, open grassland and formal avenues. The park’s Green Flag Award recognises its high standard of management, making it a safe, clean and welcoming space for locals and visitors alike.
On the park’s edge lies Lurgan Golf Club, an 18‑hole parkland course designed by Frank Pennink. At 6,298 yards and a par of 70, the course offers sweeping fairways, wooded dog‑legs and spectacular lake views, providing a rewarding test for all abilities.
History / Background
Originally part of the Brownlow estate, the grounds were laid out in the early 19th century around Brownlow House – an imposing Elizabethan‑style mansion that still overlooks the park from the north‑west. The estate was purchased by the Lurgan Loyal Orange District Lodge in the early 20th century and opened to the public, evolving into the multifaceted recreation area it is today. A standout historic feature is the Coalbrookdale Fountain, one of only four surviving cast‑iron examples worldwide, which crowns the main avenue.
Lurgan Golf Club was founded in 1893 as a modest nine‑hole layout in the Brownlow area. In 1970 the course was expanded to its present 18‑hole configuration, cementing its reputation as one of Northern Ireland’s classic parkland courses. Recent investment has produced a modern clubhouse, a Golf Academy recognised as a GUI Regional Development Centre, and upgraded practice facilities.
What to See & Do
Lakeside Leisure (Park)
- Fishing – Twenty newly‑constructed fishing stands line the lake; anglers can target roach, bream and tench (licence required).
- Rowing – Eight rowing boats are available for hire at £2 per person for a 30‑minute session; life jackets are supplied and children under 16 must be supervised.
Sports & Play (Park)
- Tennis – Six flood‑lit courts (four all‑weather) can be booked online at least 48 hours in advance via the council’s Outdoor Bookings calendar.
- Bowling Green, cricket wicket and several football pitches provide space for team sports.
- Super Play Area – A modern, fully fenced playground caters to children of all ages.
Walking & Orienteering (Park)
- A 2‑mile lake circuit, a 0.8‑mile woodland loop, and the 1.5‑mile “Lurgan Park” trail are marked on the WalkNI website.
- The Lagan Valley Orienteers maintain a free orienteering course and an Ecotrail suitable for beginners and intermediate participants.
Heritage Highlights (Park)
- Coalbrookdale Fountain and the historic oak‑lined avenue.
- Views of Brownlow House from the lake’s edge; the house served as a headquarters during both World Wars and is reputed to be linked to the town by a hidden tunnel.
Golf Club Experiences
- Play the Course – The 6,298‑yard layout blends long, open stretches with tighter, tree‑lined sections; quick, true greens reward accurate approaches.
- Golf Academy – Open to members and visitors; lessons, practice balls (30 balls per token for £3) and a range of coaching programmes are available. Tokens can be bought at the Pro Shop or Bar until 20:30.
- Bar & Restaurant – The Club Bar overlooks the 10th, 18th and 1st holes and screens major televised events. Bunker 43 serves locally sourced dishes (Tue‑Sat 12:00‑21:00, Sun 12:00‑20:00); tables can be booked by calling 028 3832 2087 ext 3.
- Facilities – On‑site parking, Pro Shop, driving range, putting green, golf buggies (pull‑trolleys and power caddies), locker rooms with showers, and club‑hire equipment.
- Scenic Walks – After a round, a stroll around Lurgan Lake or a visit to the nearby castle adds cultural depth to the day.
Practical Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Green Fee (2026) | Summer (until 31 Oct): £40 18‑hole, £22 9‑hole; Winter (1 Nov 2025‑28 Feb 2026): £30 18‑hole, £20 9‑hole; Society Rate Mon‑Fri: £30 18‑hole; Society Rate Sun: £35 |
| Buggy Hire | Visitors £30, members £20 (power caddy available for an additional charge) |
| Tennis Court Booking | Online via the council’s Outdoor Bookings calendar, at least 48 hours ahead |
| Rowing Boat Hire | £2 per person for 30 minutes; life jackets supplied |
| Fishing Licence | Required; obtain from local council or on‑site kiosk |
| Golf Academy Tokens | £3 for 30 practice balls; last sale 20:30 |
| Bar & Restaurant Hours | Bunker 43: Tue‑Sat 12:00‑21:00, Sun 12:00‑20:00; Bar open daily for drinks and televised events |
| Contact | Lurgan Golf Club: 028 3832 2087 ext 3 |
| Parking | Free on‑site parking for park visitors and golfers |
Getting there – The park is a short walk from Lurgan town centre and is well sign‑posted from the M1. Public transport (bus routes 10/11) stops at the park entrance. The nearest railway station is Lurgan (NI Railways), offering regular services to Belfast and Dublin.
Nearby attractions
- Brownlow House – The historic mansion that anchors the park’s northern edge; tours are available during summer months.
- Lurgan town centre – A short stroll away, offering shops, cafés and the historic market square.
Enjoy a full day of outdoor recreation, historic discovery and world‑class golf at Lurgan Park and Golf Club – a green oasis where sport and heritage meet.