Portadown between canal paths and heritage

The Newry-Portadown Canal Towpath runs for 20 miles from Bann Bridge in Portadown to the Town Hall in Newry. Its length and named endpoints give you concrete reference points when choosing a route based on its course. The towpath also passes a diverse range of local flora and fauna. So, alongside the route itself, the landscape and its flora and fauna are also aspects of this route.

Paths and landscape

Another route is the Bann Boulevard path. It runs from Point of Whitecoat to Shillington's Quay in Portadown. The two routes differ in their endpoints: the Canal Towpath runs as far as Newry, while the Bann Boulevard path has its named endpoints in Portadown. This helps you distinguish between the route names and courses when planning.

The Newry Canal is the oldest summit-level canal in Great Britain and Ireland and opened in 1742. This adds a historical dimension to the route and its landscape. If you want to include paths and heritage in your travel plans, the natural diversity along the towpath and the history of the canal appeal to two different interests.

Guided and self-guided visits

Portadown Heritage Tours runs tours of Carleton Street Orange Hall and Heritage Centre, as well as walking tours of Portadown. The offerings differ in focus: the tour of the site centres on a named heritage location, while the walking tour focuses on Portadown. Confirm the availability of each tour before your trip.

You can also visit the hall independently using the “Portadown Heritage Tour” app. Visitors can use it to explore the hall at their own pace. This distinguishes an app visit from a guided tour. Check in advance whether the app is available.

Circular walk and architectural heritage

The short, circular Lady's Mile trail runs through the woodland around Ardress House. Its route and woodland setting give this walk its own character. Before your visit, check trail conditions and access.

Moneypenny’s Forge is located in the adjoining stables and 18th-century bothy. Its location in these buildings gives the forge an architectural and historical connection. So, in addition to paths and visits, historic buildings are another distinct aspect to consider when planning your trip.

Choose what brings you to the area before searching for hotels

You can also start your hotel research by comparing the different types of routes: the Canal Towpath is a 20-mile connection between Portadown and Newry, while Lady's Mile is a short woodland loop. If you prefer a route with named endpoints or a short circuit, this comparison gives you a concrete reason to decide what to focus on during your trip. Then tailor your search for hotels in Portadown to the purpose of your visit.

Discover more destinations: Craigavon.

Return to the main travel overview: Craigavon.