The best running trails around Drumnakelly
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(16)
2,176
runners
124
runs
Jogging routes around Drumnakelly, a village in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, provide access to diverse landscapes. The region is characterized by the expansive Lough Neagh, offering varied shoreline and gravel paths, alongside the nearby Craigavon Lakes with their traffic-free routes. Further afield, Davagh Forest presents more challenging woodland trails with ascents, and the broader Sperrin Mountains offer dramatic valleys and hills. These features combine to create a varied environment for runners.
Best jogging routes around Drumnakelly
- The most popular jogging…
Last updated: May 15, 2026
2
runners
12.4km
01:17
50m
50m
Jog the moderate 7.7-mile (12.4 km) Oxford Island National Nature Reserve route from Lurgan, gaining 162 feet (49 metres) through diverse sc
68
runners
16.3km
01:43
80m
80m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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32
runners
15.7km
01:38
60m
60m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
runners
5.51km
00:34
30m
30m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
runners
11.5km
01:15
60m
60m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The paths are wide and perfect for families, as there are no cars to disturb you. As you glide along the car-free cycling and hiking trails, you can enjoy the view of the water - especially when the sky is cloudy, the lake has a very special atmosphere, almost mystical. The route is mostly asphalt, but there are also some gravel sections that provide some variety. These single-track paths add a certain challenge to the route without being really demanding. Ideal if you prefer to take it easy, but still don't want to just walk on smooth asphalt. If you want to take a break, the lake offers many corners to catch your breath and have a picnic. There is enough space on the banks to rest a bit and enjoy the surroundings to the fullest.
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The beautiful Oxford Island National Nature Reserve is located on the southern shore of Lough Neagh. The reserve hosts a number of wonderful gravel and woodland trails as well as bird watching hides, a discovery centre, marina, and a bushcraft centre. The reserve is also home to a fantastic array of wildlife such as wild rabbits, badgers, otters, buzzards, and herons, so keep your eyes peeled as you jog along.
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If you wish to take the detour, a short causeway will lead you to The Starting Battery, used by the Lough Neagh Sailing Club as the starting mark for their boat races.
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The waterwheel at Craigavon Lakes is a historical landmark. It was purchased by the council in the 70s from the south of the Province and refurbished to provide energy to the local people. The wheel never got into full swing because of the lack of waterflow, however, in recent years the wheel has been seen turning for the first time!
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Craigavon Balancing Lakes, referred locally as 'The Lakes' are a set of man-made lakes built in the 1970s to control flooding. The route around the lakes is entirely flat and follows a mixture of paved and gravel paths close to the shoreline, which creates some wonderful water views as you jog along.
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A pretty lake with a lovely path for cycling / walking around. The lake is also popular with anglers.
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Similarly to a reservoir, these balancing lakes function as a water store. However, instead of storing the water for the purposes of consumption it is utilised to temporarily store flood waters. As the surrounding areas become more built up with hard surfaces, less rain excess water is stored by soil resulting in it routing quicker into the rivers. These balancing lakes help by reducing the volume of rain water reaching the rivers, which prevents flooding. And more importantly for cyclists it has the great byproduct of providing a pretty feature for MTB trails to be built around!
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Craigavon Lakes with family friendly, traffic free, cycle and walking paths and even some single-track gravel paths.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available around Drumnakelly?
There are over 120 running routes around Drumnakelly, offering a wide variety of options for different fitness levels and preferences. These include easy, moderate, and more challenging trails.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly jogging routes near Drumnakelly?
Yes, Drumnakelly and its surrounding areas offer several easy jogging routes. Many of the paths around Craigavon Lakes and Lough Neagh are generally flat and accessible, perfect for beginners or a relaxed run. For example, the routes around Lurgan Park Lake provide a gentle experience.
What kind of scenery can I expect on jogging trails around Drumnakelly?
Jogging routes around Drumnakelly offer diverse scenery. You can expect expansive lake shores, accessible gravel paths, and tranquil woodland trails. The region is characterized by the vast Lough Neagh, the picturesque Craigavon Lakes, and further afield, the dramatic valleys and hills of the Sperrin Mountains, providing stunning natural backdrops for your run.
Are there any circular running routes in the Drumnakelly area?
Yes, many of the running routes around Drumnakelly are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. A popular example is the Oxford Island National Nature Reserve from Lurgan, which explores gravel and woodland trails on the southern shore of Lough Neagh in a loop.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions to see along the jogging routes?
While jogging, you can encounter several interesting landmarks and natural features. Routes often pass by the expansive Lough Neagh and the scenic Craigavon Lakes. You might also spot the Wave Sculptures Overlooking Lough Neagh or pass by the Lough Neagh Discovery Centre, which offers facilities and information.
Are the running trails around Drumnakelly suitable for families?
Many of the routes around Drumnakelly are suitable for families, especially those around the lakes and forest parks. Areas like Gortin Glen Forest Park and Davagh Forest offer well-marked trails that cater to various fitness levels, including family-friendly paths. The local play areas in Loughmacrory and Fox Park also provide accessible outdoor spaces.
Can I bring my dog on the jogging trails in Drumnakelly?
Generally, many outdoor trails in Northern Ireland, including those around Drumnakelly, are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, often on a lead. It's always best to check specific park or nature reserve rules before you go, but areas like Gortin Glen Forest Park and Davagh Forest are popular choices for runners with dogs.
What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Drumnakelly?
The running routes around Drumnakelly are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 15 reviews. Runners often praise the varied terrain, from easy, flat loops around the lakes to more challenging woodland routes, and the stunning natural beauty of the region.
Are there options for more challenging trail running near Drumnakelly?
Yes, for those seeking a more challenging run, the broader Sperrin Mountains, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offer trails with significant elevation gain and dramatic landscapes. Davagh Forest also presents more challenging woodland trails with ascents, providing a good workout for experienced trail runners.
Is there public transport access to the running routes around Drumnakelly?
While Drumnakelly itself is a small village, the larger towns nearby like Omagh and Carrickmore serve as gateways to the wider region. Public transport options to specific trailheads might be limited, so planning your journey, potentially involving a car or local taxi services, is advisable for reaching some of the more remote starting points.
Are there parking facilities available at the trailheads?
Many of the larger recreational areas and forest parks near Drumnakelly, such as Gortin Glen Forest Park and Davagh Forest, typically offer dedicated parking facilities. For routes starting in or near towns like Lurgan, there are often public car parks available. It's recommended to check specific route details for parking information.
What is the best time of year for jogging in Drumnakelly?
The best time for jogging in Drumnakelly largely depends on personal preference. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter can be invigorating, though trails might be muddier or require more appropriate gear due to colder, wetter conditions. Always check local weather forecasts.
Are there any running routes with cafes or amenities nearby?
Yes, some running routes, particularly those around popular spots like the Lough Neagh Discovery Centre or within larger forest parks, may have cafes, visitor centers, or picnic areas nearby. The towns of Carrickmore and Omagh, close to Drumnakelly, also offer a range of amenities including cafes and shops.
Most popular routes around Drumnakelly
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