Attractions and Places To See around Lurgancullenboy - Top 18
Attractions and places to see around Lurgancullenboy, a townland east of Crossmaglen in County Armagh, Ireland, are primarily centered within the broader Ring of Gullion area. This region is characterized by undulating hills, dales, and craggy rocks, with its name translating to "The track of the yellow holly." Visitors can explore a range of natural and historical sites, including an extinct volcano and ancient archaeological features. The area offers diverse landscapes for outdoor activities.
Best attractions and places to see…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Slieve Gullion Summit
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North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough
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Giant's Lair
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The Witch Sculpture
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Ring of Gullion Cycle Tours
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Tips from the Community
We had an amazing day thanks to Ring of Gullion Cycle Tours. Our bikes were well maintained and service was exceptional. We were advised by proprietor James to take the Cooley Tour through this app as the weather was spectacular and it was such good advice. Also recommended a stop off at Lumpers Bar and added a drink voucher for good measure. I can’t recommend these guys enough. The service and standard of care was truly amazing. Do yourself a favour and drop in here and do some cycling - or buy your own bike!!
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If you're in the area, Ring of Gullion Cycle Tours is definitely worth a visit. The rental shop here has everything you need for a trip - whether you're just looking to rent a bike for a few hours or plan a longer tour through the scenic Ring of Gullion landscape. It's especially handy that they also offer repairs and spare parts if your own bike needs a little rest. I noticed that the equipment was well looked after and the staff were friendly. They took the time to give me some tips on the best routes in the area. The proximity to the main road and hiking trails is a definite plus, especially if you're travelling with children - as I was. The trailer offer for the little ones is a great option for taking the whole family along. The facility itself isn't exactly a highlight, but it does the job. Perhaps a small covered area for the bikes would be a good addition to be better prepared in inclement weather. Nevertheless, for a spontaneous bike tour or a small repair in between, this rental is just the right thing.
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In the middle of the forest, you suddenly find yourself standing in front of a bizarre stone creature - the "witch". She looks as if she has just risen from the mossy ground, with a mischievous smile and deep, expressive wrinkles on her face. This artfully designed stone is one of those unexpected encounters that transform the forest into a small adventure land. When you explore this magical place surrounded by old trees and whispering leaves, it almost seems as if the witch is greeting you with a wink. Here you can linger for a moment, enjoy the silence and let your imagination run wild - who knows what stories this forest still has to tell?
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On the way through the Giant's Lair you will be immersed in Irish legends. As soon as you pass under the artistically carved archway, a magical world opens up in which the story of Finn McCool comes to life. The path leads you and the whole family through four chapters that bring the world of legend to life with lovingly designed stations. For the little ones it is an exciting treasure hunt - at every bend there are new clues waiting for them, which they eagerly discover. While they run ahead to find the next adventure, there is enough time for you to enjoy the lush nature. The dense trees, the mosses and the ancient carvings make you forget everyday life. You are in the middle of a story that unfolds further with every step.
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As soon as you cross the gentle ridge of Slieve Gullion, the North Cairn stretches out before you - a slightly smaller hill than its southern neighbour, but no less impressive. The stones that gather here seem like silent sentinels, witnesses of the distant Bronze Age. Two ancient stone boxes were once found here during excavations, which lay hidden in the depths of history. The North Cairn, with its diameter of around 18 metres, invites you to pause for a moment and enjoy the peace. But it is not just the Cairn that is fascinating. Right next to it lies "Calliagh Beara's Lough", a quiet mountain lake that, according to legend, is the home of the witch Beara. On a clear day, the sky is reflected in the calm waters and you can almost feel the ancient magic of this place coming to life. The road here may be rocky, but the landscape rewards with sweeping views and a touch of mysticism that makes Slieve Gullion something special.
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This small forest at the foot of Slieve Gullion seems to be straight out of a fairy tale. Running through it will leave you enchanted, and you'll come across curious sculptures like this giant witch's face.
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At the heart of the Ring of Gullion AONB, you'll find this beautiful mountain, which represents the highest point in the county with an elevation of 573 meters (1,880 ft). Right next to it there is a burial cairn.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural landmarks can I explore around Lurgancullenboy?
The region is dominated by natural features, most notably Slieve Gullion Summit, an extinct volcano offering panoramic views from its 573-meter peak. You can also visit the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, which features an ancient archaeological site next to a serene mountain lake. The broader landscape includes undulating hills, dales, and craggy rocks, characteristic of the Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Are there any historical or archaeological sites to visit?
Yes, Lurgancullenboy and the surrounding Ring of Gullion are rich in history. On the summit of Slieve Gullion, you'll find the highest Passage Tomb in the British Isles, with an entrance aligned to the winter solstice sunset. The North Cairn of Slieve Gullion is another significant archaeological site where Bronze Age stone boxes were discovered during excavations.
What activities are available for families with children?
Families will enjoy the Giant's Lair, an interactive trail that brings the story of Finn McCool to life through various chapters, making hikes engaging for children. Nearby, you can also discover artistic sculptures like The Witch Sculpture within the enchanting forest, adding a magical element to your walk. For cycling adventures, Ring of Gullion Cycle Tours offers bike rentals and even trailers for the little ones.
Where can I rent bikes to explore the area?
You can rent bikes and get tips on the best routes for exploring the scenic Ring of Gullion at Ring of Gullion Cycle Tours. They also provide repair services and spare parts, ensuring you're well-equipped for your cycling adventure.
What kind of hiking trails are available near Lurgancullenboy?
The area offers diverse hiking opportunities, particularly around Slieve Gullion. Popular routes include the challenging Slieve Gullion Summit loop and the scenic Poet's Trail routes. For more detailed information and a variety of trails, you can explore the hiking guide for Lurgancullenboy.
Are there options for road cycling around Lurgancullenboy?
Yes, the Ring of Gullion offers several road cycling routes. You can find various loops, such as the 'Ring of Gullion Cycle Tours – Newry Ship Canal Fountain loop' or the 'Cashel Lough Lower loop'. For a comprehensive list of routes and their details, refer to the road cycling guide for Lurgancullenboy.
What running trails are there in the Lurgancullenboy area?
Runners can enjoy several trails, including 'The Poets Trails: Ballykeel running loop' and the 'Slieve Gullion Summit – Calliagh Beara Lough loop'. These routes offer varying distances and difficulties. Discover more options in the running trails guide for Lurgancullenboy.
What is the terrain like for outdoor activities in Lurgancullenboy?
The terrain around Lurgancullenboy is characterized by undulating hills, dales, and craggy rocks. Slieve Gullion, an extinct volcano, presents a more challenging ascent to its summit. Trails can range from well-defined paths to softer, wetter ground, especially between the cairns on Slieve Gullion. The overall landscape is varied, offering both gentle and more strenuous options for outdoor enthusiasts.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions in Lurgancullenboy?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning panoramic views from Slieve Gullion Summit and the mystical atmosphere of its ancient Passage Tomb. The interactive and engaging nature of the Giant's Lair is a big hit with families, while the helpful staff and well-maintained equipment at Ring of Gullion Cycle Tours are highly appreciated by cyclists.
Are there any lakes or loughs in the Lurgancullenboy area?
Yes, the region features several small bodies of water. On the ridge of Slieve Gullion, adjacent to the North Cairn, you'll find Calliagh Beara's Lough. Additionally, the western part of the Lurgancullenboy townland itself contains two small lakes, sometimes referred to as Lurgancullenboy (Creggan) Lough.
What is the significance of the name Lurgancullenboy?
The name 'Lurgancullenboy' translates from Irish to 'The track of the yellow holly'. This reflects the natural characteristics of the area, which is known for its diverse flora and undulating landscape.
Is the Ring of Gullion suitable for exploring by bike?
Absolutely. The Ring of Gullion is an excellent area for cycling, with scenic routes that showcase its natural beauty. Ring of Gullion Cycle Tours provides bike rentals and expert advice on the best routes, making it easy to explore the region on two wheels.
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