Mc Courts Lough

You'll find McCourt's Lough just outside Markethill, a proper local spot that rarely makes it onto the tourist radar despite being genuinely worth a visit. It's a small but scenic freshwater lake surrounded by woodland - the sort of place where you can actually hear yourself think, which is rarer than you'd expect in Northern Ireland these days.

The walk around the perimeter takes a decent hour or so depending on your pace, and it's straightforward enough for families with older kids. The water itself is beautiful when the light's right, and if you're into birdwatching you'll spot plenty of wildfowl year-round. There's limited parking near the entrance, so arrive early if you're going on a weekend.

It's the kind of spot that works brilliantly as a half-day break during a longer trip - Armagh City itself is only a short drive away if you want some actual history and decent restaurants. If you're camping at Tepee Valley just down the road, this makes an easy morning or late afternoon wander before heading back for the evening. Free to access and no pretension about it.

Weather matters here more than at bigger attractions - a grey day can feel a bit dull - so pick something decent if you can. Don't expect facilities beyond a car park, but that's rather the point. It's local, it's quiet, and it genuinely delivers on that promise.