Lurgan For Tourism

Another jewel in Lurgan’s crown is Lurgan Park. This is the largest urban park in Ireland, outside of Dublin (the largest being Phoenix Park). This historic Park and buildings, which were once part of Brownlow House, date back to the 17^th and 18^th century. The Coalbrookdale Fountain is a remarkable example of Victorian engineering and design. It was placed in the town in 1888 to mark the Silver Jubilee of Queen Victoria and is now housed in Lurgan Park. It remains one of only four left in the world and is the only one in the UK.

The town is only a five minute drive away from the Lough Neagh Discovery centre which is one of Northern Irelands most popular attractions with over 200,000 visitors each year. The Lough Neagh Discovery Centre is the starting point for any visit to Oxford Island or Lough Neagh. With its superb setting on the shores of Lough Neagh, disabled access and environmental events, the Centre is an excellent destination for day trips, family days out, wildlife enthusiasts and group visits.

Birthplace of the famous writer and poet, George William Russell (Ae)

George William Russell (Ae) was born in William Street, Lurgan in 1867 and after growing up in the town he went on to become famous around the world as a writer, poet and painter. His home remains intact. Plans are underway to provide a museum of his work in Lurgan.

ae russell

Otherwise known as AE, Russell (1867 – 1935) was an artist, poet, essayist, editor, journalist, dramatist and novelist. A radical intellectual, he was deeply involved in the political and philosophical life of the Ireland of his time and is credited with bringing about a revival in Irish thought that merged literature and culture with politics and revolution.

In a publishing career which spanned four decades, Russell published work by the major Irish contemporary writers including Joyce, Kavanagh, O’Casey, O’Connor, O’Faolain, O’Flaherty, Shaw, Stuart and Yeats. He was also editor of two of the most important journals of 20th century Ireland, the Irish Homestead (1905-23) and the Irish Statesman (1923-30).

Birthplace of 1890 world lightweight boxing champion, Ike Weir

He was born in Castle Lane, Lurgan in 1867. Weir was an exceptional boxer who was lightening quick and possessed an excellent sharp-shooter left hand; He often clowned as he boxed but despite his antics, Ike was a terrific talent; During his career, he fought some men who were 30-40 pounds heavier and won.

From time to time during a boxing contest, he would raise his left shoulder and elbow, wiggle his hips, and roll his arms in a windmill fashion - then, quick as a flash, strike his foe a blow or two.

In addition to his boxing career, Ike was famous for being a champion jockey, trick shooter, acrobat, traditional Irish dancer and for turning somersaults as he entered the ring and in the ring itself.

During his career, Weir defeated such men as William Snee, Willie Clark, George Siddons, Tommy Danforth, Tommy Barnes, Kentucky Rosebud, Frank Steele, Joe Flaherty, Joe Hopkins, Tommy McManus, "Torpedo" Billy Murphy and Eddie Loeber.

James Logan

James Logan was born in High Street, Lurgan in 1674. He was a scholar and scientist. He also helped to found Pennsylvania.

At various times he acted as Mayor of Philadelphia and Chief Judge of the Supreme Court.

Barry Douglas

Home of Barry Douglas, Gold Medallist at the 1986 Tchaikovsky International Piano Competition in Moscow.

He has performed with many of the great orchestras of the world and collaborated with many eminent conductors. He also received the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2002 New Year's Honours List for services to music. He has houses in Paris and Lurgan and he is married with three young children.

Neil Lennon

Neil Lennon was a midfielder, plucked from Manchester City's reserve side, who became one of the best playmakers in Crewe Alexandra Football Club's history. He went on to become an accomplished International footballer.

Sir John Dill

John Dill

Field Marshal Sir John Greer Dill, GCB, CMG, DSO (25 December 1881 - 4 November 1944) was a British commander in World War I and World War II who played a significant role in the formation of the "special relationship" between the United Kingdom and the United States. He was born in Market Street, lurgan.