Orchard County Food Trail

County Armagh is Ireland's "Orchard County," producing over 60% of the island's apples. This delicious driving route explores the rolling countryside, traditional orchards, and artisan producers that have earned the Armagh Bramley apple Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status.

Why This Route?

Apple growing has shaped Armagh for over 3,000 years:

Bramley heritage - The famous cooking apple thrives here
Cider revival - Award-winning craft cider producers
Farm shops - Direct from producer to you
Apple blossom season - Spectacular in late April/early May
Harvest festivals - September brings apple celebrations

The Apple Story

Armagh's unique microclimate - sheltered drumlins and rich soil - creates perfect apple-growing conditions. The Armagh Bramley was granted PGI status in 2012, joining Champagne and Parma Ham as protected regional products.

The Route

Starting from Armagh City

Begin in the historic ecclesiastical capital of Ireland. St Patrick founded his main church here in 445 AD, and both Catholic and Protestant cathedrals (both named St Patrick's) face each other across the city.

Armagh Cider Company

Your first stop is this award-winning producer. Tours explain the cider-making process from blossom to bottle. Their Cider Tours include tastings and run March-December.

Loughgall

The heart of apple country. This picturesque village is surrounded by orchards - stunning during blossom season. Visit the Loughgall Country Park for walks through historic estate grounds.

The Walled Garden at Ardress House

A beautiful National Trust property with productive walled gardens, woodland walks, and a traditional farmyard. The garden grows heritage apple varieties.

The Yellow Door Deli

In Portadown, this acclaimed deli showcases the best of local produce. Stock up on Armagh apple products, local cheeses, and artisan foods.

Markethill

A traditional Ulster market town with independent shops and welcoming pubs. Gosford Forest Park nearby offers extensive walking trails.

McKeever's Orchards

Family-run orchard with farm shop selling apples, apple juice, and seasonal produce direct to visitors.

Seasonal Highlights

Blossom Season (Late April - Early May)

Orchards become clouds of pink and white
Apple Blossom Sundays - special open farm events
Best photography opportunities

Harvest Season (September - October)

Apple picking at some orchards
Cider pressing demonstrations
Harvest festivals throughout the county

Food & Drink Highlights

Must-Try Products

Armagh Bramley apples - For cooking and baking
Craft ciders - Armagh Cider Company, Long Meadow
Apple juices - Pressed from local orchards
Apple chutneys & preserves - Perfect souvenirs

Restaurants Using Local Produce

Uluru Bar & Grill (Armagh) - Contemporary dishes with local ingredients
The Moody Boar (Armagh) - Gastropub championing local producers
Wine & Brine (Moira) - Award-winning restaurant nearby

Practical Tips

Book cider tours in advance - Especially weekends
Blossom timing varies - Check local updates in late April
Farm shops may have limited hours - Call ahead
Bring a cooler bag - For cider and fresh produce
Spring roads can be muddy - Some orchards down country lanes

Combine With

Navan Fort - Ancient seat of Ulster kings, 2 miles from Armagh
Palace Demesne - Parkland in Armagh city centre
Lough Neagh - Northern shore accessible from this route