gosford forest park

The soil derived from the basaltic rock is moderately fertile and supports a wide variety of tree species. Many fine specimens of both broadleaved and coniferous trees up to 200 years old can be seen on the estate and the dimensions of one of these is the largest of its kind in the British Isles. Another is the tallest of its species in Ireland.

Gosford Castle - one of the major features of the park is one of Ireland's more remarkable buildings. It belongs to a rare architectural style - Norman revival. There is only one other example of this style in Ireland - at Glenstal Abbey near Limerick. The old walled garden has been laid out with lawns, flowering trees, shrubs and a small lily pond.

Gosford contains one of the largest collections of traditional breeds of poultry in Ireland on show in open paddocks. The ponds contain wildfowl and the dove-cotes have been stocked with ornamental pigeons. A herd of red deer is being built up in a new deer park.

There are numerous walks some of which are waymarked. A nature trail of approx 1-1/4 miles in length starts at the wheel car park. It has been adapted for use by wheelchairs. For the more energetic there is a nature trek which is 4 miles in length. Booklets are available from the ranger.

Camping sites are available for youth groups and general camping. There is also a caravan site and a short-stay touring caravan site.

Gosford Forest Park is located off the A28 beside the town of Markethill, 7 miles from the city of Armagh and 10 miles from Craigavon. It is the first forest in N Ireland to be designated a conservation forest.