Explore Armagh

Armagh is a city and the county town of County Armagh, in Northern Ireland, as well as a civil parish. It is the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland – the seat of the Archbishops of Armagh, the Primates of All Ireland for both the Roman Catholic Church and the Church of Ireland. Wikipedia

Postcode district: BT60, BT61

Dialling code: 028

Irish grid reference: H876455

Population: 16,310 (2021 Census)

Sovereign state: United Kingdom

🗓️ Best Time to Visit Armagh

  • May to September: Pleasant weather for walking tours and gardens.

  • October: During the Armagh Food & Cider Festival — perfect for foodies.

  • December: The city has a cozy holiday vibe with Christmas events and lights.

✈️ How to Get There

  • From Belfast: ~1 hour by car; regular bus services also available.

  • From Dublin: ~1.5 hours by car via M1 and A28.

  • Public Transport: Ulsterbus and other regional buses connect Armagh to major Northern Ireland cities.

🌟 Top Attractions

1. St. Patrick’s Cathedral (Church of Ireland)

  • Set on a hill with beautiful Gothic Revival architecture; connected to Armagh’s religious heritage.

2. St. Patrick’s Cathedral (Roman Catholic)

  • A grand neo-Gothic building with striking stained glass and hilltop views — Armagh is unique in having two St. Patrick’s Cathedrals.

3. Armagh Observatory and Planetarium

  • Learn about the cosmos at this world-class astronomical research center with engaging exhibits and star shows.

4. Navan Centre & Fort

  • A fascinating archaeological site linked to Irish mythology — associated with the legendary Emain Macha.

5. Armagh County Museum

  • Excellent local history museum showcasing archaeology, folk life, and military history.

6. The Mall

  • A Georgian green space surrounded by elegant buildings, perfect for a stroll or picnic.

🧭 Activities To Do

  • Walk the St. Patrick’s Trail, connecting key religious sites.

  • Attend an event at the Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre — concerts, plays, and exhibitions.

  • Enjoy cider tasting and orchard tours in the surrounding countryside — Armagh is famous for its apples!

  • Join guided ghost tours or explore local myths and legends at storytelling events.

🏨 Accommodation

  • Luxury:

    • Armagh City Hotel – Modern comforts, pool, and spa right in town.

    • Blackwell House (nearby Banbridge) – Chic country house with award-winning dining.

  • Mid-range:

    • Dundrum House – Historic charm and full Irish breakfasts.

    • Charlemont Arms Hotel – Central, traditional, and friendly.

  • Budget/B&Bs:

    • 7 Houses Boutique B&B – Cozy and stylish.

    • Fairylands Country House – Quiet countryside setting.

🍽️ Food & Restaurants

  • Uluru Bar & Grill – Australian-Irish fusion with great steaks.

  • Embers Restaurant – Family-friendly, local dishes.

  • The Moody Boar – Creative menus with locally sourced ingredients.

  • Armagh Cider Company – Try artisan ciders and apple-infused dishes during tasting tours.

🎭 Local Culture

  • Armagh is Ireland’s spiritual heart, founded by St. Patrick as a center of Christianity.

  • It has a rich Georgian architectural heritage, literary traditions, and Celtic mythology.

  • Local pride centers on apple growing — Armagh Bramley apples are PGI-protected and form the base of its cider culture.

  • The city also hosts festivals such as:

    • St. Patrick’s Festival (March)

    • John Hewitt International Summer School (literary and arts focus)

    • Armagh Food & Cider Festival (September)