Armagh Gaol

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Armagh Gaol - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

The Irish Road Trip

18 Things To Do In Armagh: Cider Festivals, One Of The Best Drives In Ireland & Lots More

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: January 2, 2024

18 Things To Do In Armagh: Cider Festivals, One Of The Best Drives In Ireland & Lots More

There are LOADS of things to do in Armagh, so why do so few people add it to their Ireland itinerary?

In the guide below, we’re going to obliterate the shite (yes, the  shite ) out of any misconceptions you had about Armagh.

Why? Because there are lots of counties in Ireland, like Armagh, that don’t receive their fair share of attention and coverage, both online and offline.

Does that mean they’re not worth visiting? Of course not!

So, in the guide below, we’ll be giving you everything you need to plan out an adventure, food, and (if you drink) pint-packed weekend in Armagh.

What you’ll get from the guide below

  • Recommendations of loads of worthwhile things to do in Armagh
  • Advice on where to grab a big aul feed
  • Plenty of post-adventure pint recommendations

Table of Contents

Things to do in Armagh (that are well worth doing) in 2019)

If there’s somewhere we’ve missed that you feel should be included, pop a comment in the comments section at the end of this article.

Ready to rock? Let’s dive in!

1 – Grab a coffee and a bit of brekkie in Embers

embers in county armagh

Photo via Embers

You can’t bate a good breakfast.

So, our first stop of the day is Embers on Market St. for a big ass feed and a slurp of coffee.

Those that tip into Embers can expect an affordable, relaxed, casual dining experience, all courtesy of husband & wife duo John and Sarah Murray.

The pair bring over 20 year’s experience to the table (pun game on point…) so you’re guaranteed top-notch service and a happy belly.

2 – Step back in time at Navan Fort

navan fort armagh

Photo by Brian Morrison

You’ll find Navan Fort, Ulster’s most important archaeological site, perched atop a drumlin (a small egg-shaped hill) just off the Killylea Road.

The site, like many of the places covered in our guide on 41 deadly things to do in Louth , is linked in legend with the tales of Cúchulainn.

According to Visit Armagh , ‘the ancient goddess of war and fertility, scored the earth with her brooch pin and traced the famous outline of this sacred stronghold of the hero Cu Chulainn, home of the famous Red Branch Knights and Ulster Cycle of tales.’

Visitors to Navan Fort can enjoy a condensed exhibition that delves into the background of Navan, an audio visual show that brings the myths & legends of the Ulster Cycle to life, and much more.

3 – Spin along the Slieve Gullion Scenic Drive (hands-down the best thing to do in Armagh, in my opinion)

Slieve Guillion summit views

Photo by AlbertMi/Shutterstock.com

I’ll have to do a separate, more detailed guide to the Slieve Gullion Drive as it genuinely is one of my favourite drives in Ireland.

I’ve taken this spin 3 times over the past couple of years and I’m already itching to get back.

The Slieve Gullion Drive treats you to a view that to be honest, I can’t even begin to describe in words.

Those of you that visit Slieve Gullion Forest Park will be treated to seemingly endless tranquil woodland trails along with stunning views out over the Ring of Gullion, Mourne Mountains , and Cooley Peninsula.

4 – Plan your trip around the Armagh Food and Cider Festival

I’ll raise my hands up right now and admit that I’ve never heard of Armagh being referred to as ‘ Ireland’s Orchard County ‘.

Now, I also thought ‘ Orchard ‘ was spelled completely differently, but that’s a different story altogether.

From Thursday 19th to Sunday 22nd September, Armagh goes cider mad, with an extravaganza of events taking place in venues right the county.

Visit the Armagh Food and Cider Festival to immerse yourself in everything from cider discovery dinners and tastings to day-retreats and flash fiction.

5 – Head for a ramble (or rent a boat and hit the water) around the second biggest park in Ireland

lurgan park armagh

Photo via Lurgan Park

The biggest park in Ireland is the Phoenix Park, which you’ll know already if you read our guide to 90+ of the best things to do in Dublin .

Armagh’s Lurgan Park slots in right behind in the number 2 spot.

Visited by as many as 2,000 people every weekend, the park here is beautifully maintained and perfect for an early morning walk or run.

If you’re in search of things to do in Armagh that lean more on the adventerous side, you can rent . rowing boat and hit the lake.

The boats only cost £2 per person for 30 mins.

6 – Give glamping a lash

glamping armagh

Photo via Blue Bell Lane Glamping

The best places to stay in Ireland are those that offer a grand aul view.

If you also fancy sleeping somewhere a little bit quirky, then a bit of glamping in Armagh will be right up your street.

At Blue Bell Lane in South Armagh, you’ll camp in an area of outstanding natural beauty, all from the comfort of a pre-pitched tipi tent.

You can kick back for the evening and gaze out at a chunk of the Ring of Gullion in the background.

7 – Visit the historic Armagh Gaol

armagh gaol tours

Photo via Armagh Gaol

OK, I’m very confused.

On the homepage of the  Armagh Gaol website, it says that they’re not taking tours at the moment, yet when you visit the tour booking page, they’re accepting bookings…

Strange. If you’re planning a visit, just double-check in advance before booking online.

The Armagh Gaol dates back to the 1780s.

It closed its doors as a working prison in 1986 and has since been earmarked for a major redevelopment. Unfortunately, it sounds like the Gaol is going to be turned into a hotel at some point in the near future.

A tour at the Gaol (if it  is  running…) takes visitors through the history of the Gaol, which includes women and children being imprisoned and executions that took place on the grounds.

8 – Head for a post-adventure pint in McConville’s Pub (and discover its link to the Titanic)

McConville’s bar portadown

Photo via McConville’s Pub

McConville’s pub in Armagh has been stood proudly on the corner of Portadown Mainstreet since the 1800s.

That’s a long-ass time.

Inside this ancient pub you’ll find the original wooden snugs, moulded ceilings and etched windows.

The story goes that some of the Russian oak fixtures in the pub were replicated from a design on Titanic.

A lovely old Irish pub.

9 – Nip into the Armagh Robinson Library

robinson library armagh

Photo © VisitArmagh

You’ll find a fancy first edition of Gulliver’s Travels in the magnificent Armagh Robinson Library .

A visit here is like stepping back into the 18th Century!

The Library, which was founded by Archbishop Robinson to display his own collection of books and fine art, is home to many rare and beautiful books.

While the library has over 42,000 printed works resting on its shelves, it’s Jonathan Swift’s own copy of Gulliver’s Travels, from 1726, with corrections written by himself, that steals the show.

10 – Take a tour of a working Orchard

Orchard tour armagh

Photo by Marissa Price via Unsplash

If you visit this website frequently, you’ll know that I’m constantly banging saying that the best things to do and places to visit in Ireland are those that take you a little off the beaten path.

If it’s a completely new experience, then even better!

A tour of a working orchard is a very unique tour, to say the least.

The lads at Long Meadow Farm offer a fully guided tour (it only takes place at certain times of the year, so check in advance) that’ll take you on a journey through their orchards.

You can explore their cider-making facilities, sample our award-winning Irish ciders, and see the pressing and blending facilities up close.

There’s also tea, coffee, and APPLE TART to be sampled!

11 – Immerse yourself in local history at the Armagh County Museum (the oldest in Ireland)

Armagh County Museum

Photo by Chris Hill

Armagh County Museum is the oldest county museum in all of Ireland.

Set in a gorgeous Georgian tree-lined mall near the centre of St Patrick’s Cathedral, this museum’s architecture makes it one of the most unique and distinctive buildings in the city.

It opened its doors to the public back in 1937 and since then, its collections have showcased centuries of stories of the people who lived, worked and had connections with Armagh to the world.

Visitors to Armagh County Museum can check out everything from military uniforms and natural history specimens to railway memorabilia and an impressive art collection.

12 – Test your nerve and give ziplining a crack

Lurgaboy Adventure centre ziplining

Photo via Lurgaboy Adventure Centre

I really need to give this a lash.

If you fancy testing your nerve during your trip to Armagh, take a spin out to Lurgaboy Adventure Centre.

It’s on this 35 acre site that you’ll find one of Irelands longest Zip Wires which stands at 400m.

You can also try your hand at coasteering, mountain biking, archery, Rock Climbing, and more.

13 – Drop by a castle that featured heavily in Game of Thrones

gosford castle armagh

Photo via Maison Real Estate

YES, there’s a castle in Armagh that featured in HBO’s Game of Thrones.

Gosford Castle was used as the House of Tully in the hit show and it was here that certain dark events took place, including the beheading of Rickard Karstark.

The 200+-year-old Gosford Castle and Forest Park, which was sold in 2019, is one of the biggest castles that was ever built in Ireland.

There are 4 different walks you can do in the grounds here, each of which is signposted.

14 – Get cultured at F.E. McWilliam Gallery and Studio

fe mcwilliam gallery armagh

Photo via Park Hood Landscape

The beautifully designed F.E. McWilliam Gallery and Studio is dedicated to the memory of sculptor Frederick Edward McWilliam, one of Ireland’s most influential artists.

Inside, you’ll find a permanent display of McWilliam’s work along with temporary exhibitions of Irish and international art.

There’s also a cafe if you’re just looking to take a weight off and have a yap for an hour or two.

15 – Clear the head with a stroll around Palace Demesne Public Park

Palace Demesne Public Park Armagh

Photo via Tourism Ireland

When I’m visiting a city, I tend to spend a bit of time in advance scoping out places to walk that lie a bit away from the hustle and bustle of cars and people.

This place looks like just the ticket for a ramble while visiting Armagh.

The Demesne , which boasts over 300 acres, is an impressive 200 years old.

There are several different walks around the Demesne, each of which varies in terms of distance and efforts needed.

16 – Mill about the place in a kayak

kayaking in armagh

Photo via Get Active ABC

I love the idea of just hopping in a kayak and heading out on the water.

If you’re looking for things to do in Armagh and this tickles your fancy, then head to to see the lads at the Craigavon Watersports Centre on Craigavon Lakes .

Here, you can hire an open canoe, a stand-up paddleboard or a kayak and head off for a paddle on the lake.

17 – Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral… both of them

st patrick's cathedral armagh

If you’re looking to explore the world of St. Patrick , then Armagh is the best place to start your journey.

When he first visited Armagh, he referred to the city as his ‘ sweet hill ‘.

It was here, in 445AD, that he founded his first large stone church. Now, there are two cathedrals in Armagh bearing the name of Ireland’s patron saint.

The first is the Church of Ireland cathedral located on Sally Hill. The second, the twin-spired Catholic St Patrick’s Cathedral, can be found on the opposite hill.

Two mighty pieces of architecture with a heap of history behind them.

18 – See aliens at Armagh Astronomy Centre and Planetarium

Armagh Astronomy Centre and Planetarium

Photo via Armagh Astronomy Centre and Planetarium

OK, OK… I lied (I’ve had about 7 cups of coffee today and I’m on a serious comedown… gimme a break!)

You won’t find aliens at Armagh Astronomy Centre and Planetarium.

What you will find is a digital theatre where you can explore the wonders of the universe, the largest meteorite in Ireland, scale models of probes, and loads more.

A visit to this place is perfect for those of you looking for things to do in Armagh with kids.

What things to do in Armagh have we missed?

The guides on this site rarely sit still.

They grow based on feedback and recommendations from readers and locals that visit and comment.

Have something to recommend? Let me know in the comments section below!

armagh gaol tours

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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Armagh Gaol

armagh gaol tours

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

armagh gaol tours

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Saran O M

Also popular with travellers

armagh gaol tours

Armagh Gaol - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Armagh Gaol

Counties Down & Armagh

On the Mall opposite the courthouse is the once-forbidding Armagh Gaol. Built in 1780 to the design of Thomas Cooley, it remained in use as a women's prison until 1988. There are plans to convert the building into a hotel. It's closed to the public.

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Crumlin Road Gaol Experience, Events, Weddings & Venue Hire

Visitor Attraction Northern Ireland

armagh gaol tours

CRUMLIN ROAD GAOL TOURS

armagh gaol tours

SELF-GUIDED GAOL EXPERIENCE

Discover over 150 years of history and follow in the footsteps of over 25,000 prisoners as you make the journey through Northern Ireland’s only remaining Victorian Era prison. The interactive self-guided tour will allow you to explore the building’s colourful past and gain a unique and memorable insight into the daily lives and routines of both prisoners and prison officers over the Gaol’s existence, learning about the Gaol’s history including when women and children were imprisoned, the executions that were carried out, its more recent history and learn about why the decision was taken to close the prison.

“Self-Guided Crumlin Road Gaol Experience” is a unique self-guided tour, which includes video, audio, and holograms throughout the site.

As part of your visit, you will have the opportunity to explore different areas of the Gaol including:

  • The Tunnel.
  • Historic Holding Cells.
  • Gaol Circle.
  • Condemned Cell.
  • Hangman’s Cell.
  • Sanger / Matrons House.
  • Wessex Helicopter

You will gain a unique and memorable insight into the daily lives and routines of both prisoners and staff.

View Experience Map

Opening / Closing Times 

First Admission: 10:00am

Last Admission: 4:00pm

AUDIO GUIDES AVAILABLE IN: FRENCH, GERMAN, MANDARIN & SPANISH

English also available, however is not essential for the self-guided tour.

Please note when using the audio guides, card details will be required on arrival.

SIGN LANGUAGE VIDEO GUIDES AVAILABLE IN: BSL

Sign Language guides are free of charge for anyone who needs them.

Please note when using the sign language guides, card details will be required on arrival.

INFORMATION AND TERMS

  • Suitable warm clothing and flat shoes must be worn.
  • The main entrance to the Gaol is via the Gate House on the Crumlin Road.
  • Coaches & Cars may enter the site via the Summer Street entrance and follow the appropriate traffic management signs.
  • Admission tickets can be purchased on the day but we advise pre-booking to avoid disappointment.
  • We recommend that you arrive at least 10 to 15 minutes prior to the tour time, to enable tickets to be checked or to be purchased (non-groups).

*60-90 minute duration based on visitors exploring all areas of the Gaol, reading the information boards and watching the videos around the site.

For groups of 15 people or more, please email our group booking team at [email protected] or contact their office on 02890741500

Please note all tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable 

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Armagh Gaol

Explore near armagh gaol: where to stay, eat, and visit, armagh gaol reviews: insider insights and visitor experiences.

Trip.com

An historical and fascinating place!

I was honoured to visit here when it was open to the public and i had one of the most intriguing and interesting tours of my life! I would love to see it open again for tours someday.

Ian K

Centered in Armagh at one end of the Mall. Formerly a womens prison that unfortunately has been disused for many years. Part of it is maintained and open to the public on specific days. There have bee...

honey045

Great place to visit

Amazing place to visit , the guide was great telling all the history and legends of the prison and Armagh city we were delighted with the tour and would definitely go back and visit again , I must se...

cassie20002

Armagh gaol

The Armagh gaol is a place where anyone can come just to get a taste of that musty smell and the feeling of hundreds of serial killers killed at the the Gaol.there are also a few surprises around the ...

rachaelg901

This was and strange look back and what prison was like for the in mates, we got a guided tour and it was very interesting.

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Venture into the history behind our stunning Georgian architecture. Live our Celtic myths and legends in the ancient site of Navan Fort. Taste local flavours in one of the leading culinary destinations. Embark on an epic journey to the home of St Patrick. Discover our culture and weave your own story of Armagh. Play in our orchards and savour world-leading artisan ciders. Experiences, wonderful walks, food on the go, family fun and time with friends.

Why not start your journey today by planning your next visit with us.

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St Patricks Cathedral

FE McWilliam

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Armagh County Museum

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Navan Centre & Fort

HOME OF ST PATRICK: The stunning Navan Centre & Fort in Armagh is just one of a range of iconic venues to feature in an outstanding programme of 30 spectacular events as part of this year’s Home of St Patrick Festival celebration in Armagh, which runs for 10 days from Friday 8 March. There are walks, talks, tours, music, song, comedy, dance and unlimited festival fun to entertain everyone, every day. With plenty of things to do, places to visit, see and enjoy, this year’s festival provides local, national and international visitors with an unrivalled chance to mark St Patrick’s legacy the best way there is. For more information on free and ticketed events, and to book, visit www.visitarmagh.com.

ARMAGH ROBINSON LIBRARY

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Armagh Gaol

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Armagh Gaol - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

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Despite being from Armagh I've never visited the Gaol. Although I no longer live in Armagh I took the opportunity today, whilst visiting family, to take a Gaol Tour. There are rumours Armagh Gaol is to be renovated into a hotel and although I'm unsure if this is still happening I thought today might be my last opportunity to see this building before it's changed forever. The tour was eye opening and our tour guide brilliant, entertaining and informative. We heard about the Gaol's history which dates back to the 1780's (it closed its doors as a working prison in 1986). At different periods men, women and children were imprisoned and executed here. It was eerily fascinating to see the whole Gaol including cells and all the different levels. The building is slowly decaying with peeling paint, crumble and decay setting in. A derelict, sad atmosphere lingers and although we took the daytime 12.30pm tour it was a great experience on Halloween. I imagine the late evening tours would be brilliant, creepy and scary! At £7 per person for an approximate 50 minute tour it was extremely good value for money. The prices vary slightly with late night tours being a bit more expensive, but family tickets and concession rates are available. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Armagh Gaol, would highly recommend it and hope this building is developed into a tourist attraction instead of being converted into a hotel.

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armagh gaol tours

Private Transfer from Tandragee to Belfast Airport (BFS)

armagh gaol tours

Private Transfer from Caledon to Belfast Airport (BFS)

armagh gaol tours

Private Transfer from Caledon to Belfast City Airport (BHD)

armagh gaol tours

Private Transfer from Tynan to Belfast City Airport (BHD)

armagh gaol tours

Private Transfer from Eglish to Belfast Airport (BFS)

armagh gaol tours

Private Transfer from Newtownhamilton to Belfast City Airport (BHD)

armagh gaol tours

Private Transfer from Newtownhamilton to Belfast Airport (BFS)

armagh gaol tours

Private Transfer from Craigavon‎ to Belfast Airport (BFS)

armagh gaol tours

Private Transfer from Craigavon to Belfast City Airport (BHD)

armagh gaol tours

Private Transfer from Scarvagh to Belfast City Airport (BHD)

armagh gaol tours

Private Transfer from Scarvagh to Belfast Airport (BFS)

armagh gaol tours

Private Transfer from Poyntzpass to Belfast City Airport (BHD)

armagh gaol tours

Private Transfer from Poyntzpass to Belfast Airport (BFS)

armagh gaol tours

Private Transfer from Dungannon to Belfast Airport (BFS)

armagh gaol tours

Private Transfer from Dungannon to Belfast City Airport (BHD)

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COMMENTS

  1. Armagh Gaol

    Built principally between 1780 and 1852, Armagh Gaol was largely designed by two of Ireland's most important architects, Francis Cooley and William Murray. The Gaol is Grade B+ listed and has lain vacant since its closure in 1988 and is presently on the Built Heritage at Risk (BHARNI) list. In order to safeguard the long-term future of the ...

  2. Armagh Gaol

    The tour was eye opening and our tour guide brilliant, entertaining and informative. We heard about the Gaol's history which dates back to the 1780's (it closed its doors as a working prison in 1986). At different periods men, women and children were imprisoned and executed here.

  3. Armagh Gaol

    There are rumours Armagh Gaol is to be renovated into a hotel and although I'm unsure if this is still happening I thought today might be my last opportunity to see this building before it's changed forever. The tour was eye opening and our tour guide brilliant, entertaining and informative. We heard about the Gaol's history which dates back to ...

  4. 18 Things to do in Armagh WORTH DOING in 2024

    On the homepage of the Armagh Gaol website, it says that they're not taking tours at the moment, yet when you visit the tour booking page, they're accepting bookings… Strange. If you're planning a visit, just double-check in advance before booking online. The Armagh Gaol dates back to the 1780s.

  5. ARMAGH GAOL: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

    Armagh Gaol, Armagh: See 15 reviews, articles, and 18 photos of Armagh Gaol, ranked No.21 on Tripadvisor among 29 attractions in Armagh.

  6. Armagh Gaol reincarnated as a new tourist attraction

    Yesterday guided tours of the gaol began and will take place throughout the day each Friday and Saturday from 10am. Visitors will be informed about the gaol's history - including the executions ...

  7. Armagh Gaol

    Skip to main content. Review. Trips Alerts Sign in

  8. ARMAGH GAOL: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

    Skip to main content. Discover. Trips

  9. Armagh Gaol

    Counties Down & Armagh On the Mall opposite the courthouse is the once-forbidding Armagh Gaol. Built in 1780 to the design of Thomas Cooley, it remained in use as a women's prison until 1988.

  10. Crumlin Road Gaol Tours

    For groups of 15 people or more, please email our group booking team at [email protected] or contact their office on 02890741500. Please note all tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. Agree to terms and conditions. Book Now. //.

  11. Armagh Gaol: Photos, Map & Reviews [2024]

    Explore Armagh Gaol in Armagh with photos, map, and reviews. Find nearby hotels and start to plan your trip to Armagh Gaol.

  12. ARMAGH GAOL: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

    The Armagh gaol is a place where anyone can come just to get a taste of that musty smell and the feeling of hundreds of serial killers killed at the the Gaol.there are also a few surprises around the corner from my personal experience the first thing I noticed was a dead butterfly sitting in the window I guess anything that enters here gets the feeling of death.

  13. Fascinating trip round an historic but neglected place

    Armagh Gaol: Fascinating trip round an historic but neglected place - See 15 traveler reviews, 18 candid photos, and great deals for Armagh, UK, at Tripadvisor.

  14. ARMAGH GAOL

    Read Armagh Gaol reviews from real travellers and get information on what you need to know before you visit.

  15. A Brief History of Armagh Gaol

    The new Armagh Gaol was built around 1780 to a design by Thomas Cooley, who had previously designed Newgate prison in Dublin. (Butler, 2020) The new Armagh Gaol, a long and narrow building, was extended around 1818 to stretch some sixty-seven metres, but at just over eight metres deep there was little space behind its imposing façade. 01.

  16. Armagh Gaol

    Places to See | Co. Armagh, Northern Ireland. About this Website » Contact us to book a visit from the team »

  17. Visit Armagh

    Live our Celtic myths and legends in the ancient site of Navan Fort. Taste local flavours in one of the leading culinary destinations. Embark on an epic journey to the home of St Patrick. Discover our culture and weave your own story of Armagh. Play in our orchards and savour world-leading artisan ciders. Experiences, wonderful walks, food on ...

  18. Armagh Gaol

    Armagh Gaol, Armagh: See 15 reviews, articles, and 18 photos of Armagh Gaol, ranked No.21 on Tripadvisor among 32 attractions in Armagh.

  19. ARMAGH GAOL

    1 review of Armagh Gaol "Despite being from Armagh I've never visited the Gaol. Although I no longer live in Armagh I took the opportunity today, whilst visiting family, to take a Gaol Tour. ... The prices vary slightly with late night tours being a bit more expensive, but family tickets and concession rates are available. I thoroughly enjoyed ...

  20. Visit Armagh Gaol on your trip to Armagh or United Kingdom

    Take a tour of the Armagh Gaol, United Kingdom to visit historic site in Armagh. Get the Reviews, Ratings, location, contact details & timings

  21. Don't bother!

    We paid 7 pound each for a tour of a hallway, a courtyard, and the exterior of some derelict buildings. The volunteer staff were very friendly and tried hard to make the tour informative, but the Gaol desperately needs investment and upgrades before the Armagh council begins charging an entrance fee.

  22. THE BEST Armagh Tours & Excursions (from £117)

    2. Small Group Armagh Private Day Tour From Belfast Navan Fort Celts. Historical Tours. 6-7 hours. Book your Private Tour and get off the beaten track away from all the usual tourist areas, this tour would suit visitors…. Free cancellation. from. £650. per group.