Highlights:

• Stock up on local treats at the market
• Take a long stroll around Gosford Forest Park
• Lunch at the foot of the Cathedral
• Impressive architecture in St Patrick’s Cathedral
• Dine in style at the Parkland

Start your day at The Shambles Market

Located on the cathedral road and market square in the city, the shambles market takes place every Tuesday and Friday from 8am to 4pm. The market has everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to locally caught fish, gifts and delicious homemade treats the whole family will love!

Take a long stroll around the historic Gosford Forest Park

Gosford features an enchanting forest trail, the park is rich in wild beauty with red deer and cattle living on the grounds. The park features mountain biking and horse riding trails also, with over 590 acres of woodland for you and the family to explore! The park is a great choice for children with a brand new play park featuring coffee and food vans on weekends. The park is home to the historic Gosford castle which became part of the Game of Thrones legacy after it was used for the exterior scenes in the third season and the execution of Richard Karstark.

Have lunch at Mulberry Bistro

Mulberry Bistro is an award winning Irish restaurant, situated at the foot of St Patrick’s Cathedral. It is home to locally sourced produce and very reasonably priced proving a popular option for many of the locals. The restaurant offers irish, British and European foods with plenty of tasty options the family will love.

Visit St Patrick’s Cathedral

Next, just a short walk away from Mulberry Bistro is St Patrick’s Cathedral which stands on the hill from which Armagh derives its name from – Ard Macha (the height of Macha). St Patrick’s Cathedral is the seat of the Catholic Archbishop of Armagh, the construction of the Cathedral began in 1840 and has been a dedicated place for worship since 1873. Inside the Cathedral you can find a gift shop and the option of a guided tour available.

Dine in The Parkland restaurant

After all of that fun it’s now time to relax, the newly opened Parkland restaurant located at Armagh Golf Club offers amazing quality fayre using locally sourced ingredients and a stunning view of the highly rated golf course.

Highlights:

• Armagh county museum
• 4C coffee house
• The historic Mall
• Relax at the White Orchard Beauty Spa
• Dine in Armagh City Hotel
• Shop in the heart of the city
• Visit ireland’s oldest library
• View our ancient ruins
• Stroll around the palace stables
• Seek adventure in the Navan Fort
• Discover the horror of the Goal

 

Day 1

 

Be amazed by our history at Armagh County Museum

 

Also known as the oldest museum in Ireland, it is located in the Georgian area of the city at the Mall. Experience the History of the orchard county, on display are military uniforms, ceramics, natural history specimens and railway memorabilia. With famous artworks displayed by JB Vallely and AE Russell.

 

Lunch: 4C Coffee House and Kitchen

 

Located in the heart of Armagh city on the Mall only a 2 minute walk away from the County Museum. 4C boasts a wide menu of lunch and coffee options, the building is quirky and the service top rated we’re sure you will enjoy the view and the food. With outdoor seating available and the option of lunch to go you could even make use of the location and dine alfresco on the historic Mall.

 

A stroll around the historic Mall

 

Surrounded by elegant Georgian buildings and located at the heart of Armagh City, the Mall is characterised by colourful flowers and stunning trees. The Mall is one of the best known areas in Armagh, through its history during the Second World War when it was used for parades and military inspections. The Mall is now a cricket ground hosting many famous matches, the walk around is a 3.9 mile (9,000 step) route.

 

Relax at the White Orchard Beauty and Spa

 

After a long day of history, why not wind down and relax, the White Orchard Beauty and Spa boasts a range of luxurious holistic and beauty treatments from their team of highly qualified beauty therapists. Offering a range of services including Thalgo facials – sure to cover all of your beauty needs!

 

Dinner: The Armagh City Hotel

 

For your evening meal, head to Armagh City Hotel for a casual meal in the callan bar, boasting a range of mouth watering menus filled with locally sourced produce you will love.

 

Day 2

 

Shopping in the heart of the city

 

Browse through the city where you will find a range of small local businesses from the delicious homemade bakes and meals from Johnstons bakery to the small and quirky stores such as Oh La La Boutique there are plenty of locally owned shops to be visited.

 

Visit Northern ireland’s oldest library

 

The Armagh Robinson Library (formerly called Armagh Public Library), is the oldest library in Northern Ireland. It was founded by Archbishop Richard Robinson as part of his plans in establishing a University in the city. Upon arrival look up and see the beautiful stone message carving which means “the healing place of the soul” which is a message the city still resonates with to this day.

 

Lunch at Rumour Cafe

 

A family run coffee shop serving some of the city’s best coffees (it’s award winning coffee range). You’re in for a treat at Rumour, located only across from the library and both outdoor and indoor seating available. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere and array of homemade foods to choose from.

 

View the ancient church ruins found within the city

 

Known as Armagh Franciscan Friary, the ruins are the surviving walls of the nave and chancel church and tower. It was founded by Archbishop Patrick Scannail in 1263-64. The area has easy parking and you can find posted signs offering informative history on the area. Located close by is the gardens of the Robinson House which features a short walk around.

 

Stretch your legs further with a historic walk around the Palace Stables

 

Located next to Armagh Franciscan Friary, the Palace Stables is a restored Georgian horse stables which is located in the Palace Demesne. This was the home of the Archbishop of the Church of Ireland until the 1970s. Upon your walk around the palace you will find plenty of trees, plants and animals, there is even a newly renovated play park available for the kids.

 

Dinner: Uluru Bar and Grill

 

A highly rated casual dining restaurant located in the heart of Armagh city, Uluru offers some of the most premium and locally sourced foods from the city and its surroundings. Here you will find local ingredients with an Aussie twist, this award winning restaurant will be sure to satisfy anyone’s taste buds!

 

Day 3

 

A morning stroll around the Navan Fort

 

The Navan Fort is considered one of the most important ancient monuments in Northern Ireland, also known as Emain Macha, the seat of the ancient kings of Ulster. The name itself comes from Princess Macha. It is one of Ireland’s most famous archaeological sites with the ancient myth that Macha, the ancient goddess of war and fertility, scored the earth with her brooch pin and traced the famous outline of this sacred stronghold of the hero Cu Chulainn. With tours available around the fort why not walk in the footsteps of warriors and explore the site of the great temple of 95BC.

 

Lunch: The Navan Restaurant

 

Located in the Navan centre and Fort, this restaurant is a must! Sample the exciting lunch time menu with heart warming food to suit all tastes. Give yourself an energy boost after all of the walking with their legendary homemade scones and warming tea and coffee available.

 

Go sky high at Armagh Observatory

 

The Armagh Observatory is one of Ireland’s leading scientific research institutes, currently there are up to 30 astronomers actively studying the Stellar Astrophysics and the Earth’s climate there. Great for the family, the observatory hosts guided tours of the observatory building and Astropark. Including scenes access to the historic Armagh telescopes.

 

The city’s history continues through Armagh Gaol

Located in the centre of Armagh at one end of the historic Mall, Armagh Gaol was formerly a women’s prison. Famous historian James Stuart wrote about the Gaols’ dark history in 1819 comparing it to Avernus, the entrance to the underworld in Classical Rome. Closed for inside viewing you can still view the spectacular design of the jail and feel the horror from the past outside the building.

 

Dinner: Toni’s Bar and Grill

 

Discover a unique taste of America at Toni’s Bar and Grill, serving up some of the best burgers in Armagh! The extensive menu caters for both vegetarian and meat eaters, you will be spoilt for choice. For service, food, ambience and price – it won’t disappoint!

Highlights:

• Brekkie at Embers
• Exploring Lurgan Park
• An Orchard tour
• Discover our bagels
• Lurgaboy Adventure Park
• A morning by our lakes
• 4 Vicars for lunch
• Discover our Tayto crisps
• Picnic on the Mall
• The Pilgrims walk
• Adventure day at Craigavon Ski & Golf Centre
• Lets go to the theatre

 

Day 1

 

Grab some brekkie at Embers

 

Perfect for the family, Embers is a family run all day venue serving up pretty impressive cooked breakfasts, grills, plus coffees and pastries. You can expect an affordable and casual dining experience with a menu that is hard to bate!

 

Visit the second biggest park in Ireland – Lurgan Park

 

Rent a boat and hit the water at Lurgan Park, the perfect location for a family adventure! The park is located around an expansive man made lake, it has 5km of pathways through mature woodland and open grassland. Also having been described as a hidden gem, the park offers a well pleasant place to walk and also great for the kids with its super play park which includes a water feature, tennis courts, bowling green and more!

 

Take a tour on the Orchard

 

Taking you off the beaten path, this new experience is a must for any visitor to the city! Armagh is rightfully known as the orchard county for good reason, its many beautiful working orchards, take a well guided tour at Long Meadow Farm and discover our orchards. You can explore the cider making facilities, sample award winning irish ciders and even get to see how it’s pressed.

 

Lunch: Discovering the BC Classic at Bagel Bean

 

Located at the Shambles and a well known and hot spot for lunches by the locals, Bagel Bean boasts a wide selection of quirky and delicious bagels on its menu. Most importantly the BC Classic – Extra sauce on the side!

 

Now you’re well energised, how about some ziplining?

 

Test your nerve with a trip to Lurgaboy Adventure Centre for some adventurous zip lining the whole family will love! On its 35 acre site you will find one of Ireland’s longest Zip wires standing at an impressive 400m! Amongst other activities such as coasteering, mountain biking, archery and rock climbing you won’t be stuck for choice!

 

Dinner: After all those activities it’s time to refuel at Keegans Bar & Restaurant

 

Keegans bar has been a part of the city for many years, a well known family owned gem in the city with amazing food at very affordable prices – plus a well deserved Guinness after all of the day’s adventures.

 

Day 2

 

Time for an adventurous morning at the lakes!

 

It couldn’t get anymore adventurous than kayaking, right? Head down to Craigavon lakes watersports centre for all things adventure. You can hire an open canoe, stand up paddleboard or kayak and off you go!

 

Enough water fun now for some history at St Patrick’s Cathedrals

 

St Patricks day is known all over the world, a day for the Irish! But did you know that St Patrick actually visited Armagh – referring to the city as his sweet hill. It was then he had founded his first stone church. Today you will find two cathedrals in Armagh representing his name. The first is located on Sally Hill and the second found on the hill opposite.

 

Lunch: The Gathering Rooms in the historical location of Vicars Hill

 

A quiet and relaxing cafe funded by The National Lottery Community Fund Empowering Young People Program. It is a place where young people with autism can come and train to work and enhance their social skills. The food is certainly instagram worthy with plenty of delicious refreshments on offer.

 

Take a scoot up to the Tayto Factory

 

Located in Tandragee, The Tayto Factory Tour will give you great insight into how their crisps get so golden, crunchy and tasty! As one of Northern Ireland’s most popular crisp brands you will get to learn why. Top tip – if your potatoes are well behaved you may even get to taste some!

 

Dinner: At Sally Mcnallys

 

After learning about how our crisps are made you probably are craving some fresh spuds, with no better place to fulfil your cravings than at Sally Mcnallys. Serving award winning food from local produce you will certainly get a taste of Northern Ireland here. Fine dining and with a menu to suit everyone enjoy great quality food at great prices.

 

Day 3

 

Start the morning fresh with a walk along Scarva Towpath

 

Escape from the city for the morning and check out the scenery at Scarva Towpath, visitors can expect 18 miles of woodlands, forest trails and country laneways along the route.

 

Picnic on the Mall

 

Dine differently with a nice picnic on the Mall (weather dependent), with many options in the city to choose from lunchtime takeaway you can be sure to relax and unwind after all of the week’s activities. With takeaway options such as Bagel Bean, Desburrito and Rumour to choose from in the city. 

 

After a relaxing morning it’s time for another adventure – at Oxford Island

 

Embrace nature and wild surroundings at Oxford Island, here you can discover important habitats such as reed beds, open water, wildlife ponds, forests and wildflower meadows. As well as a network of all access walking trails and bird watching it’s enough for a few hours of nature and fun.

 

Dinner: Embers Restaurant

 

For casual dining Embers is the perfect destination in Armagh, finding everything to suit the whole family from the extensive grill bar menu, including succulent char grilled steaks to homemade burgers and freshly battered cod and chips.

 

Day 4

 

Saint Patricks Way – The Pilgrims Walk

 

Starting – Armagh

Finishing – Downpatrick

 

This 82 mile signed walking trail connects key sites relating to Saint Patricks Heritage, it takes you through some of Northern Ireland’s more spectacular scenic landscapes. Ending then at Saint Patrick’s final resting place at the grounds of Down Cathedral in Downpatrick.

 

The walk lasts about 6 days but can be shortened down with some driving in between or if you have 6 days extra you can give it a go! The route sections are as follows:

 

A – Navan to Armagh & City Tour

B – Armagh to Scarva

C – Scarva to Newry

D – Newry to Rostrevor

E – Rostrevor to Newcastle

F – Newcastle to Tyrella

G – Tyrella to Downpatrick

 

Every day is different- The route covers varied topography, from rolling hills to canal towpaths. Every day offers different views and terrain, with a combination of off- and on-road trails. With plenty to do and see along the way, there are many cafes, restaurants and picnic sites for refuelling.

 

Day 5

 

Start your last day of adventure right at Craigavon Golf & Ski Centre

 

Located in Lurgan this sports centre is situated in beautiful wooded surroundings, the sportscentre is Northern Ireland’s only outdoor ski slope. The 300 ft main slope, nursery slope and snow tubing facilities ensure the whole family is catered for.

 

Grab a bite at Wee Paddy’s Bistro on the way back to Armagh City

 

Wee Paddy’s is a popular choice when in Lurgan, the restaurant offers a wide selection of different options to choose from. Ideal for all of the family, the foods are always very well presented and excellent value for money – most dishes are Irish, european.

 

Next stop – Ballydougan Pottery at Bloomvale

 

The historic Bloomvale House is the home of the award winning Ballydougan Pottery Gift Shop, Restaurant and Coffee Shop. You can find highly skilled potters and their workshops which produce a comprehensive range of kitchenware and giftware items.

 

Finally back in the city – Let’s go to the theatre!

 

Armagh Market Place theatre and Arts Centre is located at the heart of the entertainment in Armagh. In the theatre you can find music, drama and comedy with an extensive gallery hosting very popular art exhibitions supporting many local artists. Feel free to wander inside and explore for yourself.

 

Dinner: Finishing off the day at Dante’s Restaurant

 

Dante’s restaurant is home to Armagh’s most popular pizza and burgers, ideal for any family you aren’t limited with options. On the menu you will find a wide selection of burgers, cocktails, pizzas and more!