The best walks and hikes around Corporation

As soon as you enter the park, an impressive landscape of dense forests, open meadows and sprawling parkland unfolds - all surrounded by the imposing Gosford Castle, which fans of Game of Thrones might recognise. The ride through the park here offers a nice mix of relaxed paths and more exciting mountain bike routes, so there is something for everyone. I explored the family cycle paths and cycled through the mature trees, with the sunlight dancing through the leaves and creating a very special atmosphere. The park is spacious enough to find a quiet spot even on busy days. I particularly liked the view of the sheep grazing in the open meadows - an idyllic sight that makes you feel far away from everyday life. If you want to take a quick break, you can often find food trucks in the car park offering snacks and drinks. The only small negative point is that the paths are not always perfectly signposted, but a bit of adventure is part of it, right?

As you step through the magnificent gate, you will be enveloped by the timelessness of this historic place. The old walls, which shine in the sun, tell stories from times long past and invite you to discover them. The municipality has enriched this treasure trove of history with a library and a museum that attract knowledge seekers and history lovers. In the quiet rooms of the library you can leaf through old writings and be transported back to times gone by, while the museum brings the history of the place and its people to life. After a journey of discovery through history and culture, the Priorat's café beckons with its seductive scent of freshly brewed coffee. Here, in an ambience that wonderfully combines modernity and history, you can take a little time out. Choose from comfortable seating inside or settle on one of the terraces to soak up the rays while munching on delicious pastries. But the Priory has even more to offer. A dreamy little walkway winds from the building down to the river. A path lined with blooming flowers and old trees that acts as an invitation to explore this wonderful terrain in all its splendor.

This handsome looking weir stretches across the river like a silent sentinel, capturing the clear waters of the Blackwater as they glisten in the sun and bathe the surrounding area in a calming sound. Next to the weir there is a green oasis in which time seems to stand still. Lush green areas, peppered with scattered trees, invite you to linger. Picnic benches, strategically placed, offer the ideal place to watch the water play at the weir, let your thoughts wander and unwind. Here, on the banks of the Blackwater, you can escape everyday life for a moment and lose yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of the park.

The impressive property tells stories of a time when the Earls of Gosford ruled these green lands. The renowned London architect Thomas Hopper worked on its construction, which began in 1819 and reached its magnificent end in the 1850s. His visionary talent gave the castle its characteristic Norman Revival style - a contemporary witness to the architectural greatness of the 19th century. Considered Ulster's largest listed building, the mighty walls of Gosford Castle have witnessed numerous historical turning points. The Earls of Gosford lived here until 1921, after which the castle's fortunes changed. In 1958, the Department of Agriculture acquired the property and transformed the surrounding countryside into the picturesque Gosford Forest Park - a nature lover's paradise spanning 240 hectares where Ireland's flora and fauna flourish in their full glory. But the years were not kind to the castle and it rapidly fell into disrepair. But like a phoenix rising from the ashes, it was acquired by the Boyd Partnership in January 2006. At a cost of around £4 million and under the watchful eye of a government-appointed commission, the castle was lovingly restored and converted into elegant private apartments. Today, Gosford Castle shines in new splendor and attracts admirers from far and wide.

Gosford Forest Park is set around the imposing Gosford Castle which you might recognise from Game of Thrones. Forest, woodlands and open parkland await with plenty of space to explore and enjoy the outdoors. There is a family cycle trail, as well as mountain bike trails and food vans are often available in the car park.

The priory is a beautiful building in Benburb that invites the community to visit the library, museum, or grab a coffee and a scone at the wonderful cafe (fit with lovely indoor and outdoor seating). A small footpath leads from the priory to the river where you can explore further these wonderful grounds.

Pretty looking weir stretching across the River Blackwater in the Benburb Valley Park. To the side of the weir, there is some greenery and picnic benches where you can take a seat and relax.

This magnificent Grade I listed 19th-century country house is situated just outside the town of Markethill in County Armagh. It is nestled in the 240 hectare Gosford Forest Park, an area teeming with fantastic flora and wildlife. The castle was designed by London architect Thomas Hopper and was built for Archibald Acheson, the 2nd Earl of Gosford.