5.0
(1)
214
runners
4
runs
Jogging around Crunagh offers access to diverse landscapes, including varied forest paths and open meadows within areas like Gosford Forest Park. The region features accessible routes with minimal elevation around lakes, alongside paths that traverse rolling hills. This mix provides a range of running experiences across its natural settings.
Last updated: August 11, 2026
5.0
(1)
111
runners
10.2km
01:10
110m
110m
Embark on a moderate jogging loop through Gosford Forest Park, covering 6.3 miles (10.2 km) with an elevation gain of 367 feet (112 metres), typically taking around 1 hour and…
1
runners
4.94km
00:34
70m
70m
Enjoy an easy 3.1-mile (4.9 km) jogging loop around Bessbrook Pond, passing historic village sights and the War Memorial.

Sign up for free
20
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
runners
4.66km
00:29
40m
40m
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
runners
10.1km
01:07
110m
120m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Crunagh
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
gravel paths and a tarmac road up the middle, also has public toilets
0
0
The Gosford Forest Park near Markethill offers an impressive mix of dense forests, open parks and hidden paths on around 240 hectares. As soon as you enter the park, you can feel the special atmosphere, which is enhanced by the mighty Gosford Castle - a building that appears between the trees and is reminiscent of times gone by. The paths are varied and lead you through a wide variety of landscapes. Sometimes you cycle on narrow forest paths lined with tall trees, sometimes you cross open meadows where sheep roam. On sunny days, the light falls through the leaves and bathes everything in a pleasant play of shadow and light. There are both easy family routes and challenging mountain bike routes, so there is something for everyone. The signposting remains a small challenge, however - it is easy to get lost. But discovering new corners also has its charm, and in the end every detour is worth it. There are several benches scattered around the park for breaks, and every now and then you'll come across a food truck offering welcome refreshments.
2
1
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.
2
0
The hilly landscape stretches out before you, glowing in lush green and dotted with scattered trees and stone walls. The mountain rises gently on the horizon, its flanks crisscrossed by fields and paths that fit together like a mosaic. The clear lines of the meadows and fields blend harmoniously into the overall picture, while the sky above glows in bright blue.
0
1
Derrymore House has been built in the 18th century by MP Isaac Corry. It has been built in the style of a cottage and less of a manor and therefore nicely fits into the green and lush countryside. Today the building is owned by National Trust. The park around Derrymore House is open to public all year round, while the so called Treaty or Drawing room in the house itself only opens at certain times. More info: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/derrymore-house
0
0
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.
2
0
Crunagh offers a selection of running routes, with komoot featuring 4 distinct trails. These include options like the Gosford Forest Park running loop and the Bessbrook village running loop around Bessbrook Pond, providing diverse experiences for runners.
Yes, Crunagh has easy running routes suitable for beginners. For example, the Bessbrook village running loop around Bessbrook Pond is an easy 3.1-mile (4.9 km) path offering a peaceful run with minimal elevation. Another accessible option is the Bessbrook War Memorial loop from Bessbrook, which is 4.6 km long.
For those seeking a moderate challenge, the Gosford Forest Park running loop is a 6.3-mile (10.2 km) trail exploring varied terrain. Another moderate option is the Derrymore House – Bessbrook War Memorial loop from Bessbrook, which covers nearly 10 km with some elevation changes.
Yes, many of the running routes in Crunagh are circular, offering convenient start and end points. Examples include the Gosford Forest Park running loop, the Bessbrook village running loop around Bessbrook Pond, and the Gosford Castle – Deer in Gosford Forest Park loop from Mullaghbrack.
While specific regulations for each trail vary, many outdoor areas in County Armagh, such as Gosford Forest Park, are generally dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be kept on a lead. It's always advisable to check local signage or park rules before heading out with your dog.
Running in Crunagh offers diverse scenery, from varied forest paths and open meadows within areas like Gosford Forest Park to tranquil routes around local ponds such as Bessbrook Pond. The region provides a mix of natural settings, including parklands and areas with rolling hills, characteristic of County Armagh's landscapes.
Yes, several routes offer views of interesting landmarks. For instance, the Gosford Castle – Deer in Gosford Forest Park loop from Mullaghbrack passes by Gosford Castle. Other nearby attractions include the Newry Canal Towpath and the scenic Cusher River, offering picturesque points of interest.
Many popular running spots in Crunagh, particularly within Gosford Forest Park, offer dedicated parking facilities. For routes like the Gosford Forest Park running loop, parking is typically available at the park's entrance or designated car parks within the forest.
The running routes in Crunagh are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Runners often praise the diverse forest paths and open parklands, highlighting the variety of experiences available from easy loops to more moderate trails.
While specific winter conditions can vary, routes through Gosford Forest Park, such as the Gosford Forest Park running loop, often remain accessible. Forest paths can offer some shelter, but it's always recommended to check local conditions and wear appropriate gear for winter running.
Gosford Forest Park, a key running area in Crunagh, typically offers visitor facilities which may include cafes or refreshment kiosks, especially during peak seasons. For routes around villages like Bessbrook, local shops and cafes are usually within easy reach.
Running trails in Crunagh vary in length, catering to different preferences. You can find shorter loops like the Bessbrook village running loop at 3.1 miles (4.9 km), up to longer routes such as the Gosford Forest Park running loop which is 6.3 miles (10.2 km).
While the main routes like those in Gosford Forest Park are well-known, exploring the smaller paths and loops within these areas can reveal quieter sections. The region's mix of forest and parkland, particularly around places like the Cusher River, often holds less-trafficked, scenic spots perfect for a peaceful run.


Browse the best Running Trails & Routes in other regions.