The Newry Canal Greenway offers a fantastic, leisurely cycle from Portadown to Newry, along the tow path of an old canal. This smooth, mostly traffic-free path is pan flat and so is perfect for cyclists of all abilities, providing a journey rich in history and scenic beauty with some lovely villages and towns to explore along the way.
A Ride Through Coalmining History
Opened in 1742, the Newry Canal was a groundbreaking feat of engineering, designed to transport coal from County Tyrone’s coalfields to the Irish Sea. Although the canal’s commercial life ended long ago – it operated from 1672 until the last mine closed in 1931 – its legacy lives on as a tranquil green corridor.
By the early 20th century, the coal industry had ceased to be viable. While the canal saw traffic up until the early 20th century it was ultimately abandoned. Thanks to a collaborative effort from Waterways Ireland, Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council, and other regional stakeholders, the towpath, once trod by horses pulling barges, is now a beautifully maintained greenway.
Cycling its length, one can appreciate the scale of this historic waterway and the industrial ambition and engineering skills of its creators.
Towns and Shops and Coffee Stops
The greenway, approximately 20 miles (32 km) long, passes through a number of charming villages and towns, each with its own character and points of interest. Starting in Portadown, a bustling town on the River Bann, the route immediately immerses you in nature. As you pedal along, you’ll pass Moneypenny’s Lock and Museum, a fascinating stop that offers a glimpse into the canal’s working past. The site, named after the lock-keepers who once lived there and operated the lock, features a preserved lockhouse, stables, and a lock chamber.
The hugely historic village of Scarva is another highlight, known for its prize-winning floral displays and the delightful Hollie Berrie Tea Rooms, perfect for a mid-ride treat as it’s located close to the halfway point on the route. Just beyond Scarva, near Poyntzpass, lies Acton Lake (also known as Lough Shark), a peaceful spot for a rest and perhaps some bird watching, if that’s your thing. There is an interpretive centre located by the lake.
Continuing on, the trail leads through Jerrettspass, a small village where you can find refreshments. The final stretch brings you into the city of Newry, where the greenway ends near the historic Town Hall, built in 1893. Here, you’ll find a wide array of cafes and eateries to refuel, such as Ground Espresso or Finegan & Son, offering a well-deserved reward for your efforts.
Road Surface and Difficulty
One of the greenway’s most appealing features is its flat and accessible surface. The path is a mix of smooth tarmac and compacted gravel, making it suitable for almost any bike, from a road bike with skinny tires to a gravel, hybrid or an electric bike. With a negligible gradient, this route is ideal for families, beginner cyclists, and those looking for a relaxed, easy ride. The path is entirely traffic-free, though cyclists should be mindful of other users, including walkers and joggers. It can be an extremely busy route and a shared-use path etiquette of “slow down, be considerate, and ring your bell” ensures a pleasant experience for everyone.
Local Tourism Boost
As is the norm where communities come together to build greenways, The Newry Canal Way has become a significant asset for local tourism, drawing visitors from across the region and beyond. By providing a safe and enjoyable way to explore the countryside, it encourages people to visit the towns and villages along the route, boosting local businesses such as cafes, shops, and B&Bs. The greenway is a key component of a larger push towards active travel and active tourism on the island of Ireland, offering a healthy and environmentally friendly way to explore the canal, tourist attractions and towns along the route.