River Tall

Overview

The River Tall is a small but charming watercourse in County Armagh, Northern Ireland. Rising roughly five kilometres west of the market town of Markethill, it flows northward past Richhill and Ballyhegan before turning west to meet the River Blackwater just south of Verner’s Bridge. The river’s lower reach is navigable for about four kilometres, making it a favourite spot for dinghy‑ing and canoeing enthusiasts who enjoy gentle, scenic paddles.

History and Landscape

Originally the Tall emptied into the River Callan at Fairlawn Bridge. In the early 1850s a major engineering project reshaped its course: between 1851 and 1854 a man‑made cut—locally called “the canal”—was excavated to divert the Tall directly into the Blackwater. This cut intercepts the river about two kilometres upstream of the former confluence and remains the main channel today. A second cut, completed in 1855, briefly diverted part of the Callan into the Tall via a weir at Clonmain Mill, though most of the Callan continued on its historic route.

Historical maps (OSNI Historical Second Edition, 1846‑1862) label the former natural channel as the “Old Course of the Tall”, but later editions drop the name, reflecting the dominance of the engineered cut. In everyday usage the name “Tall River” now embraces the canal as well as the upstream stretch, even though official OSNI maps apply the name only to the portion above the interception.

The river’s catchment is typical of the Armagh countryside: low‑lying fields, patchwork farms, and occasional woodland strips. Its banks are lined with mature alder and willow, providing habitat for kingfishers, otters and a variety of freshwater fish such as brown trout and pike. The surrounding villages—Richhill, Ballyhegan and the historic market town of Markethill—offer a glimpse of rural life that has changed little since the canal was cut.

What to See & Do

• Canoeing and Dinghy‑ing – The four‑kilometre navigable stretch between the canal’s interception point and the Blackwater is calm, shallow, and free of major obstacles. Paddlers can launch from informal banks near Richhill or from a small slipway close to Verner’s Bridge. The water level is generally reliable year‑round, though it can drop after prolonged dry spells.
• Fishing – Anglers will find brown trout and pike in the deeper pools near the Blackwater confluence. A simple rod and line are sufficient; no licence is required for private angling on the river, but a national fishing licence is needed for the Blackwater.
• Historical Walks – Follow the old riverbed on foot to see the remnants of the pre‑1850 course. At Fairlawn Bridge the “Old Course of the Tall” can still be traced, though much of it has been filled in. Information boards near the canal’s entrance explain the 19th‑century engineering works.
• Birdwatching – The alder‑lined banks attract kingfishers, grey herons and occasional sandpipers. Early morning visits increase the chance of spotting otters foraging along the banks.
• Local Heritage – The nearby villages host historic churches and market squares. Richhill’s 18th‑century market house and the ruins of Clonmain Mill (site of the 1855 weir) are within walking distance of the river.

Getting There – Parking & Public Transport

By car – The A28 links Armagh and the M1 to the Tall’s access points. Free parking is available at the Verner’s Bridge lay‑by and at the Richhill village car park. Both sites provide short, level paths to the water’s edge.

Public transport – The nearest bus stop is in Richhill, served by Ulsterbus routes between Armagh and Portadown. From the stop, it is a 10‑minute walk along the Bypass Road to the informal launch area.

Conservation

The River Tall is part of a designated Water Framework Directive catchment. Visitors are encouraged to follow the “Leave No Trace” principle: carry out all litter, avoid disturbing wildlife, and refrain from feeding fish.

Nearby Attractions

• Ardress House – An 18th‑century National Trust house set in landscaped grounds a short drive from Richhill.
• Gosford Forest Park – Extensive woodland trails and a historic mansion, ideal for a post‑paddle walk.
• Ballymoyer Woodland – A scenic estate with walking routes that intersect the Tall’s upper catchment.
• Armagh Drumlins – Rolling hills offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the river valley.
• Markethill – The village where the Tall rises; explore its market square and local pubs.
• Richhill – Visit the 18th‑century market house and enjoy a riverside café before or after your activity.

The River Tall may be modest in size, but its blend of gentle navigation, historic engineering and tranquil countryside makes it a rewarding destination for outdoor lovers seeking an authentic slice of County Armagh’s natural heritage.