Lowry's Lough

The water at Lowry's Lough sits flat and grey most days, ringed by reeds and the occasional fisherman who knows what he's doing. It's a modest lake, really - nothing that's going to leave you speechless - but it works perfectly if you're camping at Tepee Valley just down the road near Markethill and want a quiet walk that doesn't demand much effort.

What you get here is straightforward: a decent loop around the water, decent views across farmland, and the kind of peace that comes from somewhere not trying too hard to impress. The lake itself is popular with local anglers, which tells you the fishing's reasonable. Birdwatchers will find enough to keep them occupied - herons work the shallows regularly.

Best for people who like gentle walking without drama. Not the sort of place where kids will stay entertained for hours, but proper fine for a couple of hours if you're based nearby and the weather's half decent. Go early if you can, before the afternoon light gets too washed out.

It costs nothing and you can turn up whenever suits you. Give yourself ninety minutes for the walk if you're not rushing. The water's cleaner than some of the boggy lochs you'll find elsewhere in Northern Ireland, which is worth noting. From Markethill, it's straightforward enough to find, and pairing it with Tepee Valley means you've got somewhere properly excellent to stay - those reviews don't lie.