Attractions and Places To See around Ballyknock - Top 5

Ballyknock offers a variety of natural attractions. You can visit Altkeeran Waterfall, a beautiful little waterfall nestled near the spring Source Of The Grillagh. Another serene spot is Altnaheglish Reservoir, located within the ancient oak woodlands of Banagher Forest. The Cusher River also flows through forest areas with signed trails, featuring notable stone bridges.

Yes, for breathtaking views, consider the climb to Carntogher Summit Cairn. From the peak, you'll be afforded extensive views across Lough Foyle, the Sperrins, and south-east to The Mournes and Slieve Gullion. Moydamlaght Forest also offers gorgeous views of the Sperrin mountains, including Craigagh, Spelhoagh, and Crockbrack hills.

Ballyknock is rich in history. The Carntogher Summit Cairn is not only a viewpoint but also a historical site. Further afield, you can visit Gosford Castle, a prominent 19th-century country house, or Scarva Village, which features a WWII pilbox. The area around Ballyknockan also holds significant archaeological importance, with an ancient burial site at Carrigacurra dating back to between 760-414 BC.

Absolutely. Altnaheglish Reservoir and Banagher Forest are both considered family-friendly, offering peaceful environments for walks and jogs. The tranquil trails along the Cusher River are also suitable for families, with some paths even accommodating pushchairs.

The region is known for its diverse woodlands. Banagher Forest is a large coniferous woodland featuring beautiful sitka spruce and peat-covered slopes, and is home to some of Ireland's oldest ancient oak woodlands. Moydamlaght Forest is predominantly pine, offering fast and fun tracks.

Yes, the Cusher River flows through forest areas with signed trails that are tranquil and easy, with some paths suitable for pushchairs. Additionally, the tracks around Banagher Forest are paved and undulating, making it a good location for a gentle jog or walk.

Beyond exploring the attractions themselves, Ballyknock offers excellent opportunities for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including the challenging climb to Carntogher Summit Cairn, or more moderate routes like the Eagle Rock Trail via Moydamlaght Forest. For cyclists, there are road cycling routes such as the St Lurach's Church Ruins loop. You can find more details on these activities in the hiking guide and road cycling guide for Ballyknock.

Yes, there are several hiking trails. For example, you can take the Altkeeran Waterfall loop from Pollan Burn, which is an easy hike. More challenging options include the Carntogher Way or the Crockbrack Way. For a comprehensive list of routes, check out the hiking guide around Ballyknock.

Beyond its natural and historical structures, Ballyknock has cultural significance. The Ballyknockan Brass Band achieved considerable reputation, performing at notable events in Dublin. The area has also served as a filming location for several cinematic works, including *Captain Boycott* and *P.S. I Love You*.

Visitors particularly enjoy the peace and serenity found at places like Altnaheglish Reservoir, especially when walking or jogging along its shores within the ancient oak woodlands. The rewarding extensive views from the top of Carntogher Summit Cairn are also highly appreciated, making the climb worthwhile.

Yes, Ballyknock offers several easy walking trails. The Cusher River features tranquil paths, some suitable for pushchairs. Additionally, routes like the Glenshane Forest loop or the Drumnaph Forest loop are categorized as easy hikes. You can explore more options in the easy hikes guide around Ballyknock.