Drumlins and Canal

Route mainly on public road but joins Newry Canal Towpath for a short time.

Stunning views of Loughbrickland Lake.
F.E. Mc William Gallery and Studio.
Thomas Ferguson Irish Linen Centre.
Opportunity to stop at Scarva Visitors Centre, with its excellent cafe and information on the building of Newry Canal.

This 22 mile route is a mixture of rolling drumlin countryside and flat canal towpath. Starting in Banbridge, you head southwest towards Loughbrickland on a quiet road running parallel to the main Dublin road. From here the route climbs steeply to overlook Loughbrickland Lake on your left and starts a series of testing undulations. Thankfully the climbs are short and soon you descend towards Poyntzpass. The route joins the canal towpath here for a six-mile flat run to the award winning village of Scarva. Take care when passing walkers. Use your bell to let them know you are coming. Scarva Visitors Centre offers an opportunity for a rest and some refreshments. Soon the route leaves the canal towpath at Madden’s Bridge and joins the main Gilford to Tandragee road for a short spell before taking the first left turn. Turning right at the first T-junction into Gilford the route climbs under some electric lines to the north of the town onto more undulating roads before descending through the village of Lawrencetown. You then cross the River Bann and follow the south side of the river to Banbridge.

Route starts in Banbridge, situated just off the main Belfast to Dublin road. Both free and Pay-Station car parks are available in and around the town centre.

Some parts of the route can be busy at times.

Refreshmants available in Banbridge, Loughbrickland, Scarva, Gilford and Lawrencetown.