Gosford Forest Park

Gosford Forest Park covers 240 acres of diverse woodland and open parkland near Markethill in County Armagh, owned by Forest Service NI and managed by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council. The mountain bike network includes a green family loop, a blue trail and a red trail, plus a pump track and skills loop beside the trailhead. The park is also home to Gosford Castle, deer enclosures and a large children's play park.

Trails at Gosford Forest Park are subject to periodic closures for resurfacing and forestry works. Always check the GetActive ABC Gosford page for the current trail status before travelling.

The Trails

• Green Trail (approx. 6.6km): A family-friendly loop combining forest roads and two short singletrack sections. Shared with walkers and horse riders. Starts and finishes at the main car park.
• Blue Trail (approx. 10km): Takes in a large proportion of the forest, usually keeping to the edges, with flowing hardpack singletrack, small drops and berm turns. Suits intermediate riders.
• Red Trail (approx. 14.8km): Combines and extends the green and blue loops with additional technical features. Longer, more varied circuit for confident intermediates.
• Pump Track: A purpose-built asphalt pump track beside the main car park, suitable for all ages and bikes. Free to use once inside the park.
• Skills Loop: A short skills area complementing the pump track, designed for building confidence before heading onto the main trails.

Getting Here

• Primary car park: Gosford Forest Park, 7 Gosford Demesne, Markethill, BT60 1GD. The entrance is directly off the A28 Armagh to Newry road, signposted from both directions. Parking charge: £5 per day (check the GetActive ABC website for current prices and annual pass options). Park gates open 8am to dusk, varying seasonally.
• Bike hire is available on site. Contact the park in advance to confirm availability.

Facilities

• Car park (charges apply), toilets, bike wash tap, catering trailers on site (seasonal). Caravan and camping park on site, open March to October. Contact: Gosfordforest@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk or 028 3755 1277.

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