The best walks and hikes around Drumantine
4.1
(12)
266
hikers
26
hikes
Hiking around Drumantine offers varied landscapes, characterized by undulating drumlin country and extensive parkland. The region features significant stands of trees, providing pleasant walks through woodlands. Hikers can enjoy views of a man-made lake and the distant Mourne Mountains and Slieve Gullion. The area provides a mix of gentle trails and more challenging routes, catering to various fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Drumantine
- The most popular hiking route is Bessbrook War Memorial — loop around the Bessbrook Pond,…
Last updated: May 15, 2026
3
hikers
4.32km
01:10
60m
60m
This easy 2.7-mile loop around Bessbrook Pond offers a pleasant hike past the Bessbrook War Memorial and through a historic village.
4.3
(3)
25
hikers
4.08km
01:07
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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17
hikers
8.27km
02:08
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
3.32km
00:51
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
3.78km
00:58
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Here, too, passersby encounter a "war memorial" in the center of town. Everywhere in the villages and towns, victims were mourned during the terrible wars (especially, but not only, in the first half of the last century) – often young people who had to endure suffering and pain and ultimately paid with their own lives for their service to their fatherland far from home. Their names are always inscribed on the respective memorial to at least keep the memory alive.
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Here, too, hikers and walkers will encounter a "war memorial" in the center of town, as throughout the villages and towns, victims of the terrible wars (especially in the first half of the last century) were mourned – often young people who had to endure suffering and pain and ultimately paid with their own lives for their service to their country far from home. Their names are always inscribed on the respective memorial to at least keep the memory alive.
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The war memorial in Bessbrook stands silently yet full of meaning in the heart of the village. The white obelisk bears the names of almost ninety people who gave their lives in the Second World War - a sign of remembrance and remembrance of those who once lived here and defended their homeland. As you walk past, you can read the inscriptions that tell the stories of those who fell. The square around the memorial is simple, but that is precisely what draws the focus to the message of remembrance and the silent commemoration of the past. The surrounding houses seem to carry the history of the place and you can almost feel how yesterday and today are connected here. A place that makes you pause and reminds you of how important it is to preserve history.
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Nestled away in the lovely Loughbrickland Forest lies a bronze age ringfort or rath. With its peaceful location surrounded by trees Coolnacran Fort has an almost mystical feel. In spring bluebells carpet the area, and you can explore the interior of the fort. The Forest also has designated walking routes throughout.
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This War Memorial in Bessbrook is dedicated to the 86 individuals from the village who gave their lives in the Second World War. It is a 17-foot (5.75 meters) tall obelisk.
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This obelisk-shaped War Memorial was erected in memory of nearly ninety individuals from the village who gave their lives in the Second World War.
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This peaceful pond located in the heart of the village of Bessbrook is an ideal place for a waterside stroll along its paths.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Drumantine?
There are over 25 hiking routes in the Drumantine area, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include easy walks through parkland and woodlands, as well as more moderate trails through the undulating drumlin country.
Are there hiking trails suitable for beginners or easy walks in Drumantine?
Yes, Drumantine offers many easy hiking options, with 19 out of 27 routes classified as easy. A great example is the Bessbrook War Memorial — loop around the Bessbrook Pond, which is an easy 2.7-mile (4.3 km) trail passing through a historic village.
What kind of terrain and landscapes will I encounter on Drumantine's hiking trails?
Drumantine is characterized by its unique drumlin country, featuring undulating hills and extensive parkland. You'll find pleasant walks through significant stands of trees and woodlands, with some routes offering views of a man-made lake and distant glimpses of the Mourne Mountains and Slieve Gullion.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Drumantine?
Absolutely. Many of the easier routes are suitable for families. The Bessbrook War Memorial — loop around the Bessbrook Pond is a gentle, accessible loop that passes by a war memorial and through a historic village, making it an enjoyable outing for all ages.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Drumantine?
Many of the trails in Drumantine's woodlands and parklands are suitable for dogs, provided they are kept under control, especially around livestock or wildlife. Always check local signage for specific restrictions or leash requirements on individual routes.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Drumantine?
Yes, many of the trails in Drumantine are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Bessbrook War Memorial — loop around the Bessbrook Pond and the War Memorial Cannon loop from Mullaghglass.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see along the hiking trails?
While hiking, you can explore historical sites and natural beauty. The Coolnacran Ringfort loop from Loughbrickland leads to a Bronze Age ringfort. Other nearby attractions include the Newry Canal Towpath, Scarva Village, and the impressive Craigmore Viaduct.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Drumantine?
The hiking routes in Drumantine are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 10 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful woodlands, the varied drumlin landscapes, and the well-maintained paths that cater to different fitness levels.
Are there any historical sites or points of interest within the Dromantine estate itself?
The Dromantine estate, a 320-acre property, features a historic 19th-century house and extensive grounds. Visitors can enjoy pleasant walks through its parkland and woodlands, exploring the surroundings of this notable building. For more information on the house, you can visit virtualvisittours.com.
What is the best time of year to hike in Drumantine?
Drumantine offers enjoyable hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring is particularly beautiful when bluebells carpet areas like Loughbrickland Forest. The woodlands provide pleasant walks with colorful foliage in autumn, while summer and milder winter days also offer great opportunities to explore the varied landscapes.
Are there any longer or more challenging hikes available in Drumantine?
While many routes are easy, Drumantine also offers moderate trails for those seeking a bit more challenge. The War Memorial Cannon loop from Mullaghglass is a moderate 5.1-mile (8.3 km) trail that leads through undulating drumlin country, typically taking over two hours to complete.
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