Welcome to Armagh

Armagh Observatory and Planetarium: These two impressive buildings are located in Armagh’s Astropark, and both are used to learn more about the stars and our place in the universe. The Observatory was built in 1789 and is still used as a research building today, with everything from astrophysics to climate change being studied inside. The Planetarium was built to complement the Observatory and gives visitors the chance to experience planets, constellations and galaxies in a digital theatre, as well as see the largest meteorite on display in Ireland which is over 4.6 billion years old.

Navan Fort: The ancient capital and seat of the Kings of Ulster, Navan Fort today is an impressive series of mounds, banks and ditches and the adjacent Navan Centre brings the sites rich history to life. The centre showcases the history and archaeology of this royal site of Gaelic Ireland as well as the myths and legends of the era. While there you can interact with Celtic characters in an Iron Age house who will transport you back to ancient history, explaining and demonstrating farming, weaving and cooking practices.

Saint Patrick's Church of Ireland Cathedral: Located on the Hill of Armagh, this place of worship has been a Christian church ever since it was founded by St. Patrick in 445 AD. Brian Boru, High King of Ireland, declared that Armagh was to be the religious capital of Ireland, and in 1014 he was laid to rest near the present cathedral, which was built in the 13th century. 

Saint Patrick's Roman Catholic Cathedral: Less than half a mile away from St Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral stands the Roman Catholic Cathedral of the same name. Completed in the early 20th century, this imposing cathedral overlooks the City of Armagh on an elevated site. 

Royal Irish Fusiliers Museum: This military museum honours the history of the Royal Irish Fusiliers, a British army regiment made up of recruits from Counties Armagh, Monaghan and Cavan. The regiment was active between 1881-1968 and fought in wars all over the world including both world wars. Along with interpretative displays, the collection contains uniforms, medals, regalia and the two Victoria Crosses won by the Regiment. The museum can also help with researching your family’s military history.

Ring of Gullion: This outstanding area of natural beauty offers a variety of opportunities for visitors to enjoy the countryside. There are great walking and cycling routes that take in the interesting terrain and archaeology of the area, as well as two equestrian centres for those who want to explore on horseback. There are also great facilities for angling and water sports. Slieve Gullion Forest Park offers a full day of fun for all the family. For kids there is also the chance to play in the Adventure Playpark and to explore the mystical Giant’s Lair in the wonderful Hawthorn Hill Forest Nature Reserve. 

Armagh County Museum: Designed like a small Greek temple, this museum is located in the centre of Armagh City, and is the oldest county museum in Ireland. Because of this, it has accumulated a first class collection of specimens, documents and artefacts that reveal the rich and varied history of the County of Armagh, from prehistoric times to present-day. 

Lough Neagh Discovery and Conference Centre: Set at the edge of Lough Neagh, the largest lake in Ireland, this education and events centre is all about the history, culture and wildlife in and around the lake. With over four miles of footpaths and over 200 acres of woodland, ponds, and wildflower meadows, there is plenty to discover. Temporary exhibitions are also displayed in the centre during the year.

Craigavon Watersports Centre: Craigavon is renowned for its watersports and Craigavon Watersports Centre is the foremost facility of its kind in Northern Ireland. There is a wide range of activities available including paddlesports, windsailing and banana boats, all delivered by competent and experienced staff.

The Palace Demesne Public Park: Situated close to the city centre of Armagh is over 300 acres of rolling parkland known as the Palace Demesne. The Demesne was the residence of the Archbishops of the Church of Ireland from 1770 to 1975. There are many walks and formal gardens to enjoy, including a sensory garden called the ‘Garden of the Senses’.