Attractions and Places To See around Maghery - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Maghery include a mix of natural monuments, historical settlements, and scenic viewpoints. The region offers diverse landscapes, from ancient stone formations to mountain summits and coastal towns. Visitors can explore areas rich in geological history and cultural heritage, providing varied experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.
Best attractions and places to see around Maghery
- The most popular attractions is Cloughmore Stone, an other natural monument that is a huge erratic stone from the ice age, estimated to be 50 tons. It offers great views over to Carlingford.
- Another must-see spot is Carlingford, a historical settlement. This small town is located between Carlingford Lough and Mount Slieve Foy, featuring ruins of King John's Castle, a Dominican monastery, and St. Michael's Church.
- Visitors also love Slieve Foye Summit, a mountain summit. It rises to 589 meters, making it the highest of the Cooley Mountains, and offers views overlooking Carlingford Lough and the village of Carlingford.
- Maghery is known for natural monuments, historical sites, and scenic viewpoints. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, catering to different interests.
- The attractions around Maghery are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 45 upvotes and 15 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Cloughmore Stone
Highlight • Natural
Legend has it that Finn McCool chucked it over Carlingford Lough which is much more realistic!
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Slieve Foye Summit
Highlight • Summit
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Carlingford
Highlight • Settlement
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Kilbroney Park
Highlight • Rest Area
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Silent Valley Reservoir
Highlight • Viewpoint
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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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 mountain bike trails take you through dense forests and offer breathtaking views of Carlingford Lough and the Mourne Mountains. The descent from the Cloughmore Stone, a huge boulder that was transported here during the last ice age, is a particular highlight. However, some sections are technical and require a certain level of riding technique. The trails can become slippery in wet weather, so caution is advised. Another plus point is the proximity to the charming village of Rostrevor, where you can relax in one of the cafes after the tour.
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There’s heaps to do when you visit Kilbroney park so bring a picnic, kids, dogs, bikes, walking boots and enjoy the day. Start at the Visitor Centre and learn about the forest and extraordinary Cloughmore Stone. There are tennis courts, play area, sports fields, an arboretum, walking and bike trails in the forest. Fiddler’s Green was once used for local entertainment and festivals.
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The hike to the Cloghmór Stone feels like a journey through time. Over 10,000 years ago, the ice brought this massive granite block from Scotland here, and now, weighing an estimated 50 tons, it towers majestically over the landscape. But it's not just the geology that's fascinating - according to legend, it was the giant Finn McCool who threw this enormous stone over Carlingford Lough. To be honest, the legend is a much more exciting explanation, isn't it? Once you've reached the top, you'll not only be greeted by the imposing boulder, but also by a fantastic view of Carlingford Lough and the surrounding hills. It's the perfect place to pause for a moment, take in the vastness and enjoy the peace that this place exudes.
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Here it is worth climbing the mountain
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Wikipedia (Slieve Foy (Irish: Sliabh Feá), 2023-12-02): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slieve_Foy Wikipedia (Lists of mountains in Ireland, 2023-12-02): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lists_of_mountains_in_Ireland MountainViews.ie (Slieve Foye, 2023-12-02): https://mountainviews.ie/summit/298/ TheIrishRoadtrip (“A Guide To The Slieve Foye Loop: Trail, Parking + Handy Info”, 2023-12-02): https://www.theirishroadtrip.com/slieve-foye-loop/
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A beautiful round stone, there is a legend about it but unfortunately we could not find out
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular attractions around Maghery?
Visitors frequently enjoy the Cloughmore Stone, a massive erratic boulder offering great views towards Carlingford. The historic settlement of Carlingford, with its castle ruins and charming streets, is also a favorite. For panoramic vistas, the Slieve Foye Summit provides stunning views over Carlingford Lough and the surrounding mountains.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Maghery area?
Yes, Kilbroney Park is an excellent choice for families, featuring woodland walks, a Fairy Glen, a Narnia Trail, a play park, and a cafe. The historic town of Carlingford is also considered family-friendly, with its castle and quaint atmosphere. Additionally, the Silent Valley Reservoir offers well-kept paths suitable for family strolls amidst beautiful scenery.
What natural features can I explore near Maghery?
The region boasts several impressive natural features. The Cloughmore Stone is a significant natural monument. You can also experience the natural beauty of the Mourne Mountains at Silent Valley Reservoir, a tranquil lake surrounded by sweeping granite peaks. For coastal beauty, Maghery in County Donegal offers pristine beaches like Maghery Beach, dramatic sea arches like Crohy Head, and the Bristi Sea Stack.
What historical sites are there to visit around Maghery?
The historic settlement of Carlingford is rich in history, featuring the ruins of King John's Castle, a Dominican monastery, and St. Michael's Church. In Maghery, County Donegal, you can find ancient sites such as the Roshine South Portal Tomb (Neolithic), the Termon Stone Circle (Bronze Age), and the Lough Aghnish Promontory Fort (Iron Age). The ruins of Templecrone Church, dating to around 1200 AD, are also present.
Are there good viewpoints for scenic photography?
Absolutely. The Cloughmore Stone provides excellent views towards Carlingford. For expansive vistas, the Slieve Foye Summit offers breathtaking panoramas overlooking Carlingford Lough and the village of Carlingford. Kilbroney Park also has viewpoints with stunning scenery of Carlingford Lough and the Mourne Mountains. The Silent Valley Reservoir is another picturesque spot, nestled amidst the Mourne Mountains.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. For cycling, explore routes like the 'Carlingford Lough Greenway' or 'The Head Road Route'. Hikers can find easy trails such as 'Wee Binnian' or the 'Cloughmore Stone – View of Carlingford Lough loop'. Running enthusiasts have options like the 'Mourne Park loop from Kilkeel'. For more details on these and other routes, visit the cycling, running, and easy hiking guides around Maghery.
Are there hiking trails near the attractions?
Yes, there are several hiking trails available. For an easy walk, consider the 'Cloughmore Stone – View of Carlingford Lough loop' which is 2.58 km long. Another easy option is 'Wee Binnian', a 5.95 km trail. The Slieve Foye Summit offers a more challenging climb with rewarding views. You can find more hiking options in the easy hikes around Maghery guide.
What is there to do at Maghery Country Park?
Maghery Country Park, located on the southwest shore of Lough Neagh in County Armagh, offers 30 acres with 5km of woodland walks and picnic areas. It's an ideal spot for birdwatching, fishing, and walking within natural surroundings. Boat trips to Coney Island are also available from here on weekends.
Can I visit Coney Island from Maghery?
Yes, Coney Island, the only inhabited island on Lough Neagh, is located about 1 km offshore from Maghery, County Armagh. You can reach it by boat trips, often available from Maghery Country Park or Kinnego Marina on weekends. The island has a rich history dating back to St. Patrick's time.
What unique historical landmarks can be found in Maghery, County Donegal?
Maghery in County Donegal features several unique historical landmarks. These include a Napoleonic Signal Tower on the Crohy Head Peninsula and a World War II Look Out Post and Eire Sign, both offering glimpses into past defense strategies. Additionally, you can find the historic residences of The Glebe House and Termon House, the latter near 'Famine Walls' built during the 1847 famine.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Maghery?
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning views, such as those from the Cloughmore Stone over Carlingford. The charm of the historic town of Carlingford, with its pubs and historical sites, is also highly rated. Many enjoy the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere of places like Silent Valley Reservoir and the diverse trails and facilities at Kilbroney Park.
Are there opportunities for cycling near Maghery's attractions?
Yes, the area offers several cycling routes. The 'Carlingford Lough Greenway' is an easy 25.26 km route, while 'The Head Road Route' is a moderate 29.17 km option. For a more challenging ride, consider the 'Cranfield to Crocknafeola Wood loop'. You can find more detailed information and routes in the cycling guide around Maghery.
What is the Slieve Foye Summit known for?
The Slieve Foye Summit is the highest point of the Cooley Mountains, rising to 589 meters. It is renowned for its challenging climb and the spectacular views it offers over Carlingford Lough and the village of Carlingford. It's a popular destination for hikers seeking panoramic vistas.
What facilities are available at Kilbroney Park?
Kilbroney Park is well-equipped with facilities for visitors. It features a cafe, a children's play area, tennis courts, and an information area. The park also offers well-signposted mountain bike trails, riverside walks including the Fairy Glen and Narnia Trail, and an arboretum, making it a versatile destination for various activities.
Most popular attractions around Maghery
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