Lagan Canal Trust – Working Together for Restoration

Working towards the restoration of the Lagan Canal from Belfast to Lough Neagh.

Craigavon Section

As the Lagan Canal made its way towards Ellis’ Gut and Lough Neagh it passed through rolling countryside and idyllic villages. In 1793 engineer Richard Owen, completed the navigation here allowing the lighters to cross Lough Neagh to destinations such as Tyrone and Newry.

Here visitors can take the opportunity to visit the towpath and beautiful stone bridges amid the tranquil surroundings of the Lagan Canal.

Lisburn Section

The Lagan Canal passed through the great linen mills and factories of the Lagan Valley helping shape the industrial growth of this great region.

Follow the towpath through Lagan Valley Regional Park passing the sites of the once bustling mills of industrial Ulster. Next to Lagan Valley Island & Lisburn Civic Centre sits a fully restored lock on the Canal while further upstream at Union Locks lie the only flight of 4 locks in Ireland.

Castlereagh Section

This section boasts a complete lock, lock keepers cottage, visitor centre and stone footbridge across the canal.

The Newforge Site is a precious legacy of the Canal and has been sensitively restored by Lagan Valley Regional Park, DCAL and partners to create a fascinating insight to the past way of life on the Lagan Canal.

Belfast Section

Built in 1756 by engineer Thomas Omer, this was the first section of the Lagan Canal to be completed. The first Lock of the Canal named Molly Wards was where the haulers met in the early morning to secure work for the day. From here they towed the lighters along the route to Lough Neagh.

It is hoped that once restored this section of the canal will include an iconic Stranmillis Gateway including a new crescent weir, footbridge and lock.

Welcome

… to the website of the Lagan Canal Trust. Here you can find information about the Trust, the Canal and news, events and places to visit along its length.

Choose one of the options from the menu or move your mouse over the map below for more information.

Welcome

… to the website of the Lagan Canal Trust. Here you can find information about the Trust, the Canal and news, events and places to visit along its length.

Choose one of the options from the menu or move your mouse over the map below for more information.

Latest News & Events

Seal spotting ...

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Strategic Awareness Event

On Wednesday 12th October the Lagan Canal Restoration Trust held their annual Strategic Awareness Event. Leaving from Antrim Marina aboard The Maid of Antrim, guests of the Trust were introduced to the history of the Lough and the aims of the Trust.

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