Gosford Forest Park Armagh
Armagh, County Armagh
About Gosford Forest Park Armagh
Gosford Forest Park is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of County Armagh, Northern Ireland. Covering over 240 hectares of stunning woodland, this park offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With a rich history dating back to the 17th century, Gosford Forest is not only a natural haven for wildlife but also a place steeped in heritage and culture.
Things to see and do
Beautiful Forest Trails And Outdoor Activities
The park is an adventure paradise with miles of paths and lots of opportunity for people and families to get outdoors and enjoy nature. You can pick up trail maps for biking or walking and discover several multi-use trails. Visitors to Gosford Forest can enjoy a variety of activities, from leisurely walks through the ancient woodlands to more adventurous pursuits such as challenging walking trails, mountain biking and even horse riding. The park boasts a network of well-maintained family mountain biking trails that cater to all levels of fitness, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.
Woodlands
One of the highlights of Gosford Forest is its impressive arboretum, which features a wide range of tree species from around the world. This arboretum provides a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about different types of trees and their importance to the environment. In addition, the park is home to a number of historic buildings, including Gosford Castle, which has gained fame as a filming location for the hit TV series Game of Thrones .
Children's Play Area
For kids there are a variety of fun play areas. Little Explorers is suitable for under 5 years old. This is a grassy area, enclosed with a willow hedge. Younger children will love practicing their climbing skills here.
At the Squirrels Drey take on the challenge and move tree to tree using ropes, swings and ladders, ideal for children aged 7+. Then, zoom down from the Castle Tower on two zip lines!
Family Picnics and Wildlife Spotting
For those looking to relax and unwind, Gosford Forest Park offers plenty of picnic tables for an outdoor family feast or simply taking in the beauty of nature. The park is also a popular spot for birdwatching, with a variety of species calling the woodland home. Keep you eyes open and see if you can spot these woodland animals, you might be lucky to see red squirrels, herd of wild deer, butterflies and woodpecker nests to name a few.
Special Events
Events and activities are regularly held at Gosford Forest Park, ranging from guided walks and wildlife talks to family fun days and arts and crafts workshops. The park also hosts seasonal events such as Halloween trails and Christmas markets, ensuring there is always something new and exciting to experience.
Camping
Gosford Forest Park provides a well-rounded camping experience with a variety of facilities designed to cater to both novice and seasoned campers. The park features designated camping areas that are spacious and well-maintained, accommodating tents, caravans, and motorhomes. For those who require it, electric hook-ups are available, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the comforts of electricity even while immersed in nature. These camping pitches are thoughtfully laid out to provide privacy and easy access to the park's amenities, enhancing the overall camping experience.
Sanitary facilities at Gosford Forest Park are modern and clean, with well-maintained toilets and hot showers available to all campers. This ensures that even after a day of outdoor activities, visitors can refresh and rejuvenate comfortably. Additionally, the park is equipped with picnic areas, complete with tables and benches, providing the perfect setting for outdoor meals. For those who enjoy cooking in the open air, designated BBQ facilities are available, allowing campers to safely enjoy barbecued meals amidst the forest backdrop.
Why we recommend Gosford Forest
Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat in nature or an action-packed day of adventure, Gosford Forest has something for everyone. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and diverse range of activities, it is no wonder that this hidden gem is considered one of Northern Ireland's best-kept secrets. So why not plan a visit to Gosford Forest Park and discover the beauty and tranquility of this special place for yourself?
Scenic Countryside Trails and Outdoor Activities
Gosford Forest Park boasts a variety of scenic trails suitable for walking, cycling, and horse riding. The lush woodlands, diverse wildlife, and picturesque landscapes make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park's well-maintained paths cater to different fitness levels, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all visitors
Historic Gosford Castle
The park is home to the impressive Gosford Castle, a historic building that adds a touch of grandeur to the park's natural beauty. Visitors can admire the architecture and learn about the castle's history, which dates back to the 19th century. Although the castle itself is privately owned and not open to the public, its exterior provides a stunning backdrop for photographs and leisurely strolls.
Family-Friendly Facilities Including Children's Adventure Play Area
Gosford Forest Park is equipped with various facilities that make it an excellent destination for families. The park offers picnic areas, playgrounds, and a deer park, ensuring that children have plenty of opportunities to play and explore. Additionally, the park's café provides a convenient spot for refreshments, making it easy for families to spend an entire day enjoying the park's amenities.
Facilities
Toilets
Food Available
Opening Times
January – February – 8.00am – 6pm
March – April – 9am -7pm
May – September – 8.00am – 9.00pm
October – November – 8.00am – 7.00pm
November – December – 8.00am – 6.00pm
Pricing & Tickets
- Child (4-17) : £5.00
- Adult (17-18+) : £5.00
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
Find other attractions similar to Gosford Forest Park Armagh by visiting our attraction tickets section.
Plan Your Visit
Typical visit time 2 - 3 hours
Suitable for Kids and Adults too
Food & Drink Options
The park cafe provides a menu of light meals, snacks and ice cream. There is also a range of hot and cold drinks including barista coffees.
FAQs
Parking
Toilets
Family Friendly Options
Food & Drink
Accessibility Information
Private Hire & Birthday Parties
Public Transport
Contact Details
3 Gosford Demesne
Markethill
Armagh
County Armagh
BT60 1GD
Northern Ireland
Tel: 02837551277
Visit WebsiteTransport Information
Getting to Gosford Forest Park using public transport involves a combination of train and bus services. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Train to Portadown: Begin your journey by taking a train to Portadown Railway Station. Portadown is well-connected with regular services from major cities like Belfast and Dublin. The train journey from Belfast to Portadown typically takes about 40 minutes, while from Dublin, it takes around 2 hours.
Bus from Portadown to Markethill: Upon arriving at Portadown Railway Station, transfer to a bus heading towards Markethill. Translink operates bus services that connect Portadown with Markethill. The bus journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Check the Translink website or app for the latest schedules and routes (look for buses on routes 270 or 371, which commonly serve this route).
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Gosford Forest Park Armagh Reviews
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