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Blackwatertown – Verner’s Bridge

7.5 mile (12km) trip along Blackwater Canoe Trail

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Points of Interest

 Moy, The Argory, Bond’s Bridge. Verner’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 may not be that apprpriate 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 walk 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 Verner’s Bridge is 2 miles (3.5kms) further downstream.

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 Charlemont turn right following the signs to Blackwatertown. Drive through Blackwatertown and the access point is in Bridge Business Park just before the bridge. A convenience store just before the turn off. 

Directions from Dublin  90 miles (145 Kms)
Take the M1 Northbound to Newry, then follow the A28 to Armagh. Exit Armagh on the A29 following the signs 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. A convenience store is just before the turn off.

Shuttle
The shuttle is 7.5 miles (15 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 Moy.  In Moy turn right onto the B106 signposted Coalisland / M1 Belfast. After 2 miles turn right following signs for the M1 Belfast. Continue to follow sign to the M1 Belfast and pass a small retail park on the left hand side containing ‘Crown Paints Decorating Centre’ and continue straight on.  Pass ‘Capper Fuel’ and a large car sales garage.  Cross Verner’s Bridge and the car park is on the left.