Craigavon, a planned settlement in Northern Ireland's County Armagh, represents a unique chapter in the region's urban development narrative. Conceived in the 1960s as part of the British government's initiative to relieve housing shortages and promote economic growth in Northern Ireland, Craigavon was envisioned as a modern 'new town'. Named after James Craig, 1st Viscount Craigavon, the first Prime Minister of Northern Ireland, its design aimed to combine residential areas, industry, and commerce harmoniously with the surrounding environment. The town encompasses the existing settlements of Lurgan and Portadown, along with several smaller villages and new residential areas, integrated through a network of roads, pathways, and green spaces. Despite facing challenges in fully realizing its initial vision, Craigavon has evolved into a vibrant community, marked by its unique layout, extensive parklands, and lakes that offer a blend of urban living and access to nature. Its development reflects broader trends in urban planning and community building, embodying a specific historical moment's aspirations and challenges.
Craigavon distinguishes itself with several attractions and places of interest that cater to a wide array of tastes and preferences. Central to its appeal is the South Lake Leisure Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that provides a comprehensive range of sports, leisure, and recreational activities, symbolizing the town's commitment to health and well-being. The Craigavon Lakes, around which much of the town is designed, offer picturesque settings for walking, cycling, and various water sports, enhancing the area's natural beauty and recreational appeal. Additionally, the Rushmere Shopping Centre serves as a central hub for shopping and dining, reflecting Craigavon's role as a retail center in the region. The town's planned nature is also evident in its public art installations and the layout of its residential and commercial areas, designed to foster a sense of community and connectivity. Moreover, the Tannaghmore Gardens and Animal Farm provide a family-friendly attraction, offering close encounters with farm animals and beautiful garden landscapes, further enriching the local community's quality of life.
Surrounding Craigavon, the wider County Armagh and neighboring areas are replete with towns and villages that boast their own unique charms and historical significance. Portadown, just to the east, offers rich industrial heritage and the tranquil beauty of the River Bann. Lurgan, to the north, features the stunning Lurgan Park, the largest public park in Northern Ireland, alongside its historic town center. Further afield, the cathedral city of Armagh is known as the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland, with its two imposing cathedrals and rich historical sites dating back to Saint Patrick. To the south, the town of Banbridge serves as a gateway to the natural beauty of the Mourne Mountains and is renowned for its Georgian architecture. Finally, Moira, to the east of Craigavon, is a picturesque village known for its award-winning restaurants and annual food festival, highlighting the culinary excellence of the region. These neighboring towns and villages not only complement the attractions of Craigavon but also offer visitors and residents alike a deeper understanding of Northern Ireland's diverse cultural landscape, heritage, and community spirit. Together, they contribute to the rich tapestry of experiences that define this distinctive part of the United Kingdom.
Bed and breakfast 60 Portmore StreetCraigavonBT62 3NFHotel 22 Upper Church LanePortadownBT63 5JE1.26 miles from your hotels search - Hotels in CraigavonBed and breakfast 216 Gilford RoadPortadownBT63 5LG1.96 miles from your hotels search - CraigavonBed and breakfast 9-19 Church StreetTandrageeBT62 2AF4.63 miles from your hotels search - CraigavonBed and breakfast 180 Dungannon RoadPortadownBT62 1UR5.32 miles from your hotels search - CraigavonGuest house 33 Mullabrack RoadBanbridgeBT63 6BP5.84 miles from your hotels search - CraigavonHotel 174 Lurgan RoadBanbridgeBT32 4NR6.61 miles from your hotels search - CraigavonCountry house 17 Hall RoadDonaghcloneyBT66 7LJ6.77 miles from your hotels search - CraigavonGuest house 16 Old Rectory ParkBanbridgeBT32 4QA7.75 miles from your hotels search - CraigavonHotel Rathfriland RoadBanbridgeBT32 3LH8.74 miles from your hotels search - CraigavonBed and breakfast 28 Derrymore RdAghaleeBT67 0BW8.98 miles from your hotels search - CraigavonBed and breakfast 65 Main StreetMoiraBT67 0LQ9.52 miles from your hotels search - CraigavonInn 48 Soldierstown RoadCraigavonBT67 0ES9.83 miles from your hotels search - CraigavonBed and breakfast 82 Newry RoadArmaghBT60 1ER9.85 miles from your hotels search - CraigavonBed and breakfast 2c Lime Kiln LaneAghaleeBT67 0EZ9.94 miles from your hotels search - CraigavonHotel 57-65 English StreetArmaghBT61 7LB9.98 miles from your hotels search - CraigavonHotel 2 Friary RoadArmaghBT60 4FR10.05 miles from your hotels search - CraigavonGuest house Ballycanal CottagesMoiraBT67 0NE10.25 miles from your hotels search - CraigavonBed and breakfast 16-18 The SquareDungannonBT71 7SG10.35 miles from your hotels search - CraigavonInn 212 Ballynakilly RoadDungannonBT71 6HJ10.37 miles from your hotels search - Craigavon |