The best walks and hikes around Kilmonaghan
4.0
(5)
194
hikers
34
hikes
Hiking around Kilmonaghan offers diverse landscapes shaped by drumlin hills and numerous lakes. The region features a mix of elevated and low-lying areas, with important river systems like the Blackwater and Finn adding to the natural environment. Woodlands and wetlands are also present, providing varied terrain for outdoor activities. This topography creates a range of trails suitable for different fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Kilmonaghan
- The most popular hiking route is Bessbrook War Memorial — loop around the Bessbrook…
Last updated: June 27, 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.
17
hikers
8.27km
02:08
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
hikers
3.32km
00:51
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
3.78km
00:58
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
5.11km
01:23
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
As you enter Newry via the canal route, you are greeted by an impressive tribute to the fallen: the Newry War Memorial, marked by an authentic 25-pounder gun. This artillery piece, an icon of World War II, symbolizes the courage and sacrifice of the local people during global conflicts. The Gun: It is an Ordnance QF 25-pounder, the main British field gun of World War II, known for its versatility and mobility.
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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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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
What types of hiking trails can I find in Kilmonaghan?
Kilmonaghan offers a diverse range of hiking trails, characterized by its unique 'basket of eggs' topography with rolling drumlin hills and numerous lakes. You'll find everything from gentle lakeside paths to more challenging routes through boglands and woodlands. The region features important river systems like the Blackwater and Finn, adding to the varied natural environment.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, Kilmonaghan has plenty of easy trails. For instance, the Bessbrook War Memorial — loop around the Bessbrook Pond is an easy 4.3 km (2.7 miles) route that takes about 1 hour 10 minutes. Another gentle option is the Newry River loop from Newry, a 3.8 km (2.4 miles) trail often completed in under an hour. Overall, there are over 20 easy routes to explore in the area.
Are there any challenging hikes in the Kilmonaghan area?
While many trails are easy to moderate, the region's Sliabh Beagh Hills offer more demanding terrain, including breathtaking boglands and mountain paths. These areas provide opportunities for more strenuous hikes, though specific difficult routes are not detailed in the current guide data. The area features 12 moderate trails for those looking for a bit more challenge.
Can I find circular walking routes in Kilmonaghan?
Yes, many of the trails in Kilmonaghan 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. The Emy Lough Looped Walk is also a popular circular option mentioned in the region research.
Are the hiking trails in Kilmonaghan suitable for families with children?
Many trails in Kilmonaghan are family-friendly, especially the easier, shorter looped walks. Rossmore Forest Park, for example, offers gentle lakeside paths ideal for relaxed family strolls. The Ulster Canal Greenway is also wheelchair-accessible and suitable for families. The Emy Lough Looped Walk is another picturesque option suitable for all fitness levels, with amenities for picnics.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Kilmonaghan?
Yes, many areas in Kilmonaghan are dog-friendly. For example, the Ulster Canal Greenway explicitly states it is suitable for dogs on leads. When hiking with your dog, always ensure they are kept under control, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife, and remember to clean up after them.
What interesting landmarks or natural features can I see along the trails?
The Kilmonaghan area is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can explore the scenic Camlough Lake, walk along the Newry Canal Towpath, or marvel at the historic Craigmore Viaduct. The Bessbrook War Memorial is another notable point of interest. The region's drumlin hills and numerous lakes also provide picturesque views, such as those from Gordons Lane.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Kilmonaghan?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 5 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, from tranquil lakesides to rolling drumlin hills, and the well-maintained network of trails that cater to different abilities. The picturesque scenery and the opportunity to explore both natural and historical sites are frequently highlighted.
Are there any specific forest parks or nature reserves worth visiting for hiking?
Absolutely. Rossmore Forest Park offers gentle lakeside paths and woodlands. Dartrey Forest Park features scenic lakes and the winding Dromore River, along with historical elements like the 18th-century Dawson Mausoleum. The Ballybay Wetlands Centre is a 65-acre site with nature trails through hedges and oak woodland, known for its birdlife.
Is there parking available at the trailheads in Kilmonaghan?
While specific parking details for every trailhead are not always listed, many popular hiking spots and forest parks in the Kilmonaghan area, such as Rossmore Forest Park and the Emy Lough Looped Walk, typically offer designated parking facilities for visitors. It's always advisable to check local signage upon arrival.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Kilmonaghan?
Kilmonaghan offers hiking opportunities year-round. Spring and summer provide lush green landscapes and milder weather, ideal for enjoying the lakes and woodlands. Autumn brings beautiful fall colors to the forest parks. Even in winter, many trails remain accessible, though conditions can be wetter, especially in bogland areas, so appropriate gear is recommended.
Are there any trails that follow river systems or offer waterside views?
Yes, the region is characterized by important river systems like the Blackwater and the Finn. The Newry River loop from Newry and the Newry River loop from Mullaghglass both offer pleasant walks along the river. Dartrey Forest Park also features the scenic Dromore River and a series of lakes, providing beautiful waterside vistas.
Most popular attractions around Kilmonaghan
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