Armagh

Co. Armagh is one of six counties that form Northern Ireland, situated in the north-east of the island. Adjoined to the south shore of Lough Neagh, it is one of the thirty-two traditional counties of Ireland. Co. Armagh is known as the "Orchard County" because the land is so fertile for apple-growing.

Armagh city and county is at the heart of celebrating the life of Saint Patrick and so it is a major destination on the Saint Patrick’s Trail. There are many special things to experience in Armagh, ranging from the historically unique Navan Fort, unmatched Georgian architecture, two cathedrals, the amazing green space of the Mall and the chance to indulge in all manner of activities in a beautiful environment.

Major Visitor Attractions

In Armagh County Museum, discover objects ranging from prehistoric artifacts to household items from a bygone age. With a range of exhibitions throughout the year, the museum is an ideal place to see and explore the county of Armagh down the ages.

At Armagh Observatory visitors can stroll around the beautiful gardens which contain two sundials, the Astropark and the Human Orrery. Guided tours of the main Observatory building can be arranged by appointment.

Armagh Planetarium is dedicated to astronomy education for all levels. Their aim is to demonstrate to visitors the amazing objects that exist in the cosmos.

If you enjoy cities and walking, why not take in Armagh’s Public Art Trail and enjoy one of Ireland’s most historic cities through engaging with its sculpture. With 22 miniature bronze sculptures hidden around the streets, and some giant pieces also, it’s a very interesting way to explore the city.

The Royal Irish Fusiliers Museum offers a fresh approach to the interpretation of Irish military history. The timeline, with its events from Armagh, Ireland and the world, puts regimental events into context.

The Saint Patrick Trian Visitor Complex incorporates 3 exhibitions: The Armagh Story, Patrick’s Testament and The Land of Lilliput.

The twin spires of the Catholic St. Patrick’s Cathedral overlooks the City on an elevated site. It was built in the Gothic Revival style.

Saint Patrick’s Cathedral (Church of Ireland): St Patrick founded his Great Church in 445AD. The Cathedral contains an 11th Century Celtic Cross, and a number of sculptures dating from the Iron Age to the 20th Century. The High King of Ireland, Brian Boru, was buried in the Cathedral grounds in 1014.

The Argory is a stunning 19th Century Victorian Mansion furnished as it was in the early part of the twentieth century. It also features a shop and restaurant.

Keady Heritage Centre depicts the history of Keady town and there is also the opportunity here to learn about linen mills, flax, growing and spinning weaving.

The Navan Centre & Fort helps you understand in a fun and interactive way, one of Ireland’s most importance archaeological sites, the legendary Navan Fort. The site is steeped in legend as the ancient seat of the Kings and Queens of Ulster.

The Mall, to the east of Armagh town centre, was a venue for horse racing until the 18th century when it was transformed into an elegant Georgian park.

The Tayto Factory offers visitors the opportunity to experience the magic of Tayto, to see how the potato crisps are made and to even meet Mr. Tayto himself!

There is much to explore in Co. Armagh. To see all that it has to offer, why not stay a while?