Craigmore Viaduct – War Memorial Cannon loop from Rathfriland

Bike touring routes & trails

Craigmore Viaduct – War Memorial Cannon loop from Rathfriland

Hard

riders

Craigmore Viaduct – War Memorial Cannon loop from Rathfriland

03:20

54.3km

500m

Cycling

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: August 27, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through protected areas

Please check local regulations for:

Mourne AONB

Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

18.5 km

Newry River

Lake

21.1 km

Craigmore Viaduct

Highlight • Bridge

The Craigmore Viaduct is an impressive structure, with its 18 arches spanning the Camlough River Valley, dominating the landscape of south Armagh. As I cycled along the gently curving roads, the viaduct suddenly appeared on the horizon - a massive but elegant sight. The tall stone arches seem to effortlessly support the train traffic that runs between Dublin and Belfast.

I stopped for a moment to take a closer look at the structure. It is fascinating to know that this structure has been standing here since 1852, designed by Irish engineer John Benjamin Macneill. The highest arch rises 126 feet, and standing under it you can really appreciate the scale and importance of this structure to the region.

The surroundings are just perfect for putting your bike down and taking some time to look at the view. Perhaps a small lookout point with information about the history of the viaduct would be a nice addition, but even without it it is a worthwhile stop along the way. We continue, but the image of the arches remains in our minds.

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24.6 km

War Memorial Cannon

Highlight • Monument

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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25.0 km

Cathedral of Saint Patrick and Saint Colman

Highlight • Monument

Saint Patrick and Saint Colman's Cathedral is the architectural jewel of Newry and one of Ireland's most impressive Neo-Gothic structures. Construction began in 1825, and upon its completion in 1829, the cathedral made history as the first Catholic cathedral to open in Ireland following the repeal of the penal laws (Catholic Emancipation). Built from local granite from the nearby Mourne Mountains, this edifice exudes a robust yet elegant power. The cathedral is world-renowned for its fabulous interior: the walls and ceiling are adorned with colourful mosaics, meticulously applied by hand by Italian master craftsmen in the early 20th century. For the cyclist, this is not only a visual highlight along the route but also a place of serene tranquility. Its detailed stained-glass windows and monumental tower make it one of the city's most photographed locations and a worthy endpoint (or starting point) for your tour along the Newry Canal Towpath.

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50.5 km

Archaeological Site

54.3 km

End point

Bus stop

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types