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Blackwatertown – Bond’s Bridge

This 5.5 mile (9km) from Blackwatertown to Bond’s Bridge offers a relaxed day trip.

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Points of Interest

Moy, The Argory, Bond’s Bridge.

Itinerary

This itinerary has been compiled using an estimated paddling speed of 2.5 miles (4 kilometres) per hour and also allowing time for lunch breaks and the many photo opportunities along the way.  Please check forecast before departing.

Start your trip at Blackwatertown and enjoy a relaxing 3 mile (5km) paddle downstream to Moy.  It is also possible to start your trip at Moy (GR H853 560) therefore reducing your trip by 3 miles (5km).  Access/ Egress is available at the quay on the left hand side of the river just downstream of the bridge. The village is renowned for its antique shops which is maybe not that practical on a canoe trip but a large Spar shop is just a short walk from the egress point so you can top up on those energy boosting drinks and snacks. A further walks into the village square offers 8 pubs and 2 restaurants including The Ryandale Guest Inn (+44 (0)28 8778 4829)

From Moy, a short paddle 2 mile (3.5km) paddle will bring you to The Argory , (GR H870 583) often described as one of the jewels in The National Trust’s crown.  If you have time why not take a tour of the 19^th Century house – a Neo-classical masterpiece.  Or simply call in for a break at the tea shop (seasonal opening)

The final egress point Bond’s Bridge is only 5 minutes further downstream on the same bank.  

Why not extend your trip with an overnight stay at Copney Campsite only a short distance downstream from Bond's Bridge.

Getting to the Start

Directions from Belfast 45 miles (72 kms)

Take the M1 to junction 15, turn onto the A29 signposted Moy / Armagh. Drive through Moy and Charlemont on A29.  Shortly after the Charlemont turn right following the signs to Blackwatertown. Drive through Blackwatertown and the access point is in Bridge Business Park just before the bridge. There is a convenience store just before the turn off.

Directions from Dublin  90 miles (145 Kms)

Take to M1 Northbound to Newry, then follow the A28 to Armagh. Exit Armagh on the A29 following sign to Moy.  1 mile after Armagh turn onto B128 following signs to Blackwatertown. Drive through Blackwatertown and the access point is in Bridge Business Park just before the bridge. There is a convenience store just before the turn off.

Shuttle

The shuttle is 6.5 miles (13 miles return).  The nature of the rural area makes navigation quite challenging so a good road map is essential.  From Blackwatertown retrace your tracks to Charlemont.  In Charlemont turn right onto the B28 (College Lands Road) continue for approx 2 miles before turning left (immediately after a bridge over a stream) onto Derrycraw Road following brown tourist signs to The Argory.

Photo Gallery