Oxford Island

Oxford Island is a National Nature Reserve and public recreation site on the southern shores of Lough Neagh near Lurgan in County Armagh. It covers 282 acres and is owned by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council. Much of the area is designated as a National Nature Reserve because of its wide variety of natural habitats. The site became a peninsula in 1846 when the water level in Lough Neagh was lowered. Under the Craigavon New City Plans it was acquired for public recreation in the late 1960s. The reserve maintains biodiversity through careful management. Some grassland areas are cut for hay while others are left for grazing by rare breeds such as Irish Moiled and Dexter cattle. Efforts are made to remove invasive species like Himalayan Balsam to protect native plants. The Lough Neagh Discovery Centre opened in 1993 and offers a cafe with views of the Lough, a gift shop and information on local conservation. Kinnego Marina has 190 sheltered berths and is home to the Lough Neagh Sailing Club established in 1877. Visitors can explore multiple trails spanning four miles. The site includes an artist’s studio where visitors can watch artists at work and attend workshops. The restored Enterprize Barge houses an exhibition on inland waterways. Wildflowers such as bluebells, orchids and ragged robin grow across the reserve. Butterflies like the orange tip and common blue flutter among the meadows. Lough Neagh attracts wintering wildfowl including whooper swans and Bewick’s swans.