Top 6 Lakes around Maghery
Best lakes around Maghery are primarily associated with Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles, which forms an integral part of the local environment. Maghery, a village on Lough Neagh's southwest shore, offers direct access to this vast body of water. The area is characterized by its significant natural landscapes, including woodlands and diverse wildlife habitats. Visitors can explore a variety of lakeside settings, from expansive loughs to tranquil reservoirs and smaller ponds.
Best lakes around Maghery
…Last updated: May 17, 2026
Silent Valley Reservoir
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Situated in the Mourne Mountains AONB near Kilkeel, Silent Valley …
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Silent Valley Duck Pond
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Red Bog Pond
Highlight • Natural
Even with the new gravel path this area can get quite boggy so best to wear the boots.
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View of Carlingford Lough from Mourne AONB
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Rostrevor Forest
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The Duck Pond feels like a calm secret waiting to be discovered. Recommended by hikers and tucked into a protected area, it’s a gentle spot where water glimmers among reeds and mountains frame the quiet mirror below.
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Silent Valley Reservoir, nestled in the Mourne Mountains, is a peaceful retreat surrounded by sweeping granite peaks and heathered slopes. Built in the early 20th century to supply water to Belfast and much of County Down, the reservoir combines striking engineering with natural beauty. Visitors can stroll along well-kept paths, admire the Victorian-style dam and impressive Mourne Wall, or simply enjoy the quiet atmosphere by the lakeshore.
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The well-maintained trails take you through impressive scenery, surrounded by the striking peaks of the Mournes. The view of the Mourne Wall, which stretches for 35 kilometers and connects 15 peaks, is particularly impressive. However, some sections can become slippery in wet weather, so caution is advised. A highlight is a visit to Ben Crom Reservoir, which can be reached via an extension of the route. Note that there is a fee to enter the park.
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The well-signposted paths lead you through dense forests and offer impressive views of Carlingford Lough and the Mourne Mountains. The mountain bike routes in particular are varied and require both fitness and technique. However, some sections can be slippery in wet weather, so caution is advised. A highlight is the Cloughmore Stone, a huge boulder that was transported here during the last ice age. The approach there is steep, but the view makes up for the effort.
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Beautiful Forest features scenic trails with amazing views of Carlingford Lough, especially from The Cloghmore Stone, a 40 tonne granite boulder which was deposited here at the end of the last ice age. The Oak wood is a Special Area of Conservation believed to be over 250 years old. It is a remnant of the old oak woodlands that clothed the lower slopes of the Mournes several centuries ago. Most of these oak woods were cleared during the 18th and 19th centuries for use in boat building.
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Nice duck pond with picnic benches and kids play park
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Silent Valley Reservoir in the heart of the Mourne Mountains is one of the most beautiful places in Northern Ireland. Situated in the Mourne Mountains AONB near Kilkeel, Silent Valley Reservoir not only supplies most of the water for County Down and Belfast, but it is also a beautiful spot to visit. Nestled in the heart of the Mournes between Slieve Binnian and Slieve Muck, Silent Valley lives up to its name as one of the most peaceful and tranquil spots in County Down.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most prominent lake directly accessible from Maghery?
The most prominent lake directly accessible from Maghery is Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles. Maghery village is situated on its southwest shore, offering direct access to this vast body of water and its associated Maghery Country Park.
Are there family-friendly activities around the lakes near Maghery?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly activities. At Lough Neagh, Silent Valley Duck Pond is a calm, protected area with picnic benches and a play park. Maghery Country Park on Lough Neagh also provides woodland walks and picnic areas. Further afield, Craigavon City Park Lakes offer a family mountain bike trail, water sports, and easy access to Tannaghmore Gardens and Animal Farm.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around Lough Neagh?
Lough Neagh is a vital habitat for diverse wildlife. It hosts over 100,000 birds, including significant numbers of breeding black-headed gulls and great crested grebes. You can also spot various plant species, fish, and other wildlife. The area is particularly known for its traditional eel fishing industry.
What historical or cultural sites are associated with the lakes in the region?
Lough Neagh is steeped in local myths and legends, including tales of sunken kingdoms and giants. Approximately 1 km offshore from Maghery Country Park is Coney Island, the only remaining inhabited island on Lough Neagh. It boasts a rich history dating back to St. Patrick's time and was used as a Norman outpost in the 13th century.
Where can I find peaceful walking trails near Maghery?
For peaceful walking, Silent Valley Reservoir in the Mourne Mountains offers tranquil paths amidst striking natural beauty. Maghery Country Park, on the shores of Lough Neagh, also provides 5 km of woodland walks. Red Bog Pond is another peaceful spot with a bench for resting and wildlife watching.
Are there opportunities for fishing at the lakes around Maghery?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Lough Neagh is known for its eel fishing industry, and the River Blackwater, which flows into Lough Neagh, is excellent for salmon, brown trout, pike, perch, roach, bream, and eels. Craigavon City Park's North Lake is a designated rainbow trout fishery, while its South Lake caters to coarse fish. Camlough Lake is well-stocked with pike, bream, roach, and perch, and Lowry's Lake is favored for fly fishing, stocked with rainbow and brown trout.
What outdoor activities, besides walking, are available near these lakes?
Beyond walking, you can enjoy cycling on the Loughshore cycling trail around Lough Neagh. Craigavon City Park Lakes offer various water sports, a pump track, and a family mountain bike trail. Camlough Lake is ideal for open-water swimming, canoeing, and kayaking. For more structured routes, you can explore MTB Trails around Maghery or Running Trails around Maghery.
Which lakes offer scenic views for photography?
Silent Valley Reservoir, nestled in the Mourne Mountains, provides stunning views of granite peaks and heathered slopes. The View of Carlingford Lough from Mourne AONB offers amazing vistas of Rostrevor National Park and the coast. Rostrevor Forest also features scenic trails with impressive views of Carlingford Lough, especially from The Cloghmore Stone.
Are there any lakes suitable for open-water swimming or water sports?
Camlough Lake is particularly known for its calm, sheltered waters, making it an ideal training ground for swimmers, canoeists, and kayakers. It has even hosted open-water swimming events. Craigavon City Park Lakes also provide facilities for various water sports.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Maghery?
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking, cycling, and water sports. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, especially in wooded areas like Maghery Country Park and Rostrevor Forest. Birdwatching is excellent year-round, with significant numbers of migratory birds present in cooler months.
Are there easy hiking routes available near the lakes?
Yes, there are several easy hiking routes. For example, the easy hikes around Maghery include routes like 'Wee Binnian' and a loop connecting Silent Valley Duck Pond and Silent Valley Reservoir. Maghery Country Park also offers accessible woodland walks along Lough Neagh.
Can I cycle around any of the lakes?
Yes, the Loughshore cycling trail allows for cycling around Lough Neagh. Additionally, Craigavon City Park Lakes offer well-marked trails suitable for cycling, and a family mountain bike trail. Rostrevor Forest also has varied mountain bike routes with impressive views of Carlingford Lough.
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