Welcome to Ulster Way: Newry Canal Walk:
Ulster Way: Newry Canal Walk (Option 1, Easy) Alternative to Banbridge
The Newry Canal Walk (Option 1, Easy) offers a gentle and scenic alternative to the traditional Ulster Way route, which typically leads to Portadown. This version diverts to Banbridge, providing a more relaxed experience along the historic Newry Canal with convenient train and bus connections. Click on the link for more information.
Distance: Approximately 10 km (6.2 miles)
Difficulty: Easy, flat terrain suitable for all walkers, including beginners and families
Terrain: Flat, wellmaintained towpaths along the Newry Canal, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll
Dogs: Allowed, but must be kept on a lead due to proximity to the water and wildlife
Starting Point: Newry, County Down
End Point: Banbridge, via the village of Scarva
Route Highlights:
Scenic views of the historic Newry Canal
Passes through the quaint village of Scarva, known for its beautiful park and canalside amenities
Opportunity to see a variety of wildlife and waterside scenery
Public Transport:
Connections: Train and bus services available to and from Banbridge
Bus Frequency: Regular services from Banbridge to Newry and surrounding areas
Parking: Available in Newry, Scarva, and Banbridge; options include both free and paid parking
Facilities:
Toilets: Available at key points along the route, including Scarva and Banbridge
Refreshments: Cafes, pubs, and picnic areas available in Scarva and Banbridge
Accommodation: Options available in Banbridge, including guesthouses, B&Bs, and hotels
Points of Interest:
The historic Newry Canal, one of the oldest summitlevel canals in Britain and Ireland
Scarva Visitor Centre and the picturesque Scarva Park
The peaceful and serene atmosphere of the canal towpaths, ideal for birdwatching and photography
The Newry Canal Walk to Banbridge is an excellent choice for those looking for an easier alternative to the traditional route. It offers a relaxing walk through a mix of charming countryside and waterside scenery, with plenty of opportunities to rest
and explore along the way.
Embark on a leisurely stroll along the delightful Ulster Way: Newry Canal Walk, an easy and scenic alternative to the traditional route.
Maps: UW Option 1 - Newry Canal (Newry to Banbridge Maps 3 - 7a.pdf
Explore the Beauty of Newry Canal
The Newry Canal Walk offers a peaceful escape into nature, with a charming pathway that winds along the tranquil canal, providing a serene setting for a relaxing walk.
Discover the Easy Route
This option is perfect for beginners or those seeking a gentle stroll, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the surroundings without strenuous effort.
NOTE:
The **Newry Canal Walk (Option 1, Easy)** offers a pleasant and more relaxed alternative to the traditional Ulster Way route, which typically continues from Newry to Portadown. Instead, this option takes a scenic diversion to Banbridge via the picturesque village of Scarva. The walk covers approximately 10 km (6.2 miles) along the historic Newry Canal, one of the oldest summit-level canals in Britain and Ireland, providing walkers with a flat and well-maintained path. As you walk along the canal towpath, you will enjoy a peaceful journey through lush countryside, charming waterways, and the tranquil surroundings of the canal, making it perfect for walkers of all levels, including families and beginners. Scarva, located midway on the route, is a perfect spot for a rest, with its beautiful park, visitor center, and options for refreshments. From Scarva, the path continues to Banbridge, a lively market town with rich history and culture.
Banbridge serves as a hub for onward travel, offering excellent bus connections to several nearby towns and cities, making it a convenient endpoint for those exploring the area. Regular bus services operate from Banbridge to **Newry**, with buses departing every 5 minutes, ensuring frequent and flexible travel options for visitors. For those wishing to travel further afield, there are also buses to **Dundalk** every 30 minutes, allowing easy access to this vibrant Irish town known for its rich history and culture. Additionally, buses to **Drogheda** run every 90 minutes, connecting you to one of Ireland's oldest towns, steeped in medieval heritage and close to the famous Boyne Valley. These frequent and varied transport options make Banbridge an excellent alternative endpoint for the Newry Canal Walk, providing a seamless and enjoyable experience for walkers who wish to continue their exploration of the region or return to their starting point.
Start Your Adventure at Newry Canal Walk Today!
Experience the tranquility of this scenic trail and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Don't miss out on this delightful excursion!