Newry Canal Towpath
Go to online mappingType: Mainly traffic-free
Access: Train stations at Portadown and Newry
Surface: Mainly tarmac, with sections of good quality gravel
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This cycle and walking route from the Bann Bridge in Portadown to the Town Hall in Newry is a 20 mile trip on part of route 9 of the National Cycle Network. The route follows the towpath on the western bank of the, now non-navigable, Newry Canal.
Built to transport coal from Coalisland in County Tyrone to Dublin via Lough Neagh, Portadown, Newry and the Irish Sea, the Newry Canal was opened in 1742 and operated for almost 200 years until it fell into disuse following the growth of the railway network. There are frequent interpretation boards along the way giving information about the history of the canal.
The route is flat and mostly traffic-free, occasionally using quiet, minor roads. The Scarva Visitor Centre makes a very good stopping or turnaround point for a shorter journey. Train stations at Newry and Portadown provide the option to cycle one way and get the train back to your starting point.
Need more information? Download the Newry Canal Towpath leaflet.
Local attractions:
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