Lough Neagh Cycle Route

90 miles (145 km)

Follow the Loughshore Trail along National Cycle Network Route 94 on this circuit of the beautiful Lough Neagh in Northern Ireland. The Lough is the largest freshwater lake in Britain and Ireland. The route begins in Craigavon and passes Portadown, Drumcairne Forest, Ballyronan, Toome, Randalstown, Antrim, Crumlin and Portmore Lough.
Route highlights include the pretty Craigavon Lake and the lovely Oxford Island Nature Reserve in Craigavon. The reserve covers 282 acres and includes reed beds, open water, species rich wet grassland, wildlife ponds and wildflower meadows. The route goes right up to the reserve and the Kinnego Marina so it's easy to visit and enjoy the wildlife and views across the Lough.
In Toome you will pass the Toome flood gates where the River Bann meets the Lough. Shortly after you will pass through Randalstown where you can take a short detour to visit Randalstown Forest Nature Reserve. You'll also pass the impressive Randalstown railway viaduct.
In Antrim you will pass Six Mile Water and Antrim Castle. The castle gardens and the 19th century Italianate tower are well worth a visit.
At Portadown the route links with the Newry Canal.
Here you can pick up National Cycle Network Route 9 and follow the waterside path to Newry.