Step into the woodlands of Gosford Forest Park, where the ancient trees each present a story of their own, or venture to the shores of the Oxford Island Nature Reserve, where wetlands provide a vital habitat for many bird species.
Here are 12 of the best places to encounter the beauty of Armagh’s natural world.

9. Oxford Island, Craigavon
Oxford Island is located on the south-eastern shores of Lough Neagh and much of the area is designated as a National Nature Reserve due to the diversity and local importance of habitats such as reed beds, open water, wildlife ponds, forests and wildflower meadows.Oxford Island also houses a number of facilities including a network of all access walking trails, bird watching hides, the Lough Neagh Discovery Centre, Kinnego Marina and the Kinnego Bushcraft, so that there truly is something for everyone. Photo: Discover NI

10. Tannaghmore Animal Farm, Tannaghmore Gardens Farm/Museum, Silverwood, Craigavon
One of the major attractions of Craigavon City Park is Tannaghmore Gardens, centred on Fairview House, a listed Georgian Farmhouse dating from the late 18th Century. The gardens are a popular venue for outings and family visits. The animal farm offers close encounters with many animals traditionally found on farms 100 years ago. Many of these breeds are now rare and close to extinction, including Irish Moiled Cattle, Dexter Cattle, Galway Sheep, Saddleback Pigs and a wide range of Poultry. Guided farm tours are a speciality. A stroll around the gardens will reveal interesting tree sculptures and it is possible to follow a tree trail of both native and exotic trees. There are picnic areas and BBQ facilities, along with a large maze made from gabion baskets and evergreen trees, ensuring fun all round.Owned and maintained by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, the farm is the only Rare Breeds Survival Trust approved Conservation Farm Park in Ireland due to its commitment to conservation, breeding, and promotion of rare and endangered breeds of farm animals. Photo: pexels

