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Coney Island, Lough Neagh

A quiet, wooded islet in Lough Neagh, Northern Ireland, reachable only by boat and rich in ancient history and natural peace.

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Coney Island is a small, wooded islet in the south-west corner of Lough Neagh, Northern Ireland, near Maghery in County Armagh. Accessible only by boat, this tranquil island offers a peaceful escape with rich natural and archaeological heritage. Evidence of human presence dates back to Mesolithic times, and the island’s quiet, tree-covered landscape makes it a unique spot for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. Boat trips from the mainland provide the only way to explore this secluded island in Ireland’s largest lake.

A brief summary to Coney Island

  • Maghery Rd, Dungannon, BT71 6PA, GB
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Budget
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 3 out of 5

Local tips

  • Check local boat operators or community groups for scheduled trips to the island, as access is only possible by boat.
  • Wear sturdy footwear and bring waterproof clothing, as the island is natural and can be muddy or wet underfoot.
  • Bring all food, water, and supplies with you, as there are no facilities or shops on the island.
  • Respect the natural environment: take all litter with you and avoid disturbing wildlife or vegetation.
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Getting There

  • By boat from Maghery

    Coney Island is only accessible by boat, typically launched from the Maghery area on the Lough Neagh shore. Local boat operators and community groups sometimes run guided trips, especially in warmer months. These trips usually last 1–2 hours and include a short landing on the island. Booking in advance is recommended, as services are limited and weather-dependent.

  • By car to Maghery

    Drive to the Maghery area on the southern shore of Lough Neagh, near Dungannon. The closest access point is off the Maghery Road, where boat trips to Coney Island depart. Parking is available near the launch area, but facilities are basic. From here, the island is about a 10–15 minute boat ride across open water.

Coney Island location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Clear Skies

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Discover more about Coney Island

A Secluded Island in Ireland’s Largest Lake

Coney Island lies in the south-west corner of Lough Neagh, Northern Ireland’s largest freshwater lake. Roughly 9 acres in size and about 1 km offshore from Maghery in County Armagh, the island is a small, densely wooded islet surrounded by open water. Its position between the mouths of the River Blackwater and the River Bann gives it a quiet, sheltered character, far from roads and development. The island is not permanently inhabited and is visited mainly by boat, making it a rare, undisturbed natural space in the region.

Traces of Ancient Life

Archaeological evidence shows that Coney Island has been used by people for thousands of years. Remains of prehistoric activity, including Mesolithic occupation, point to its long-standing role as a place of shelter and resource gathering. Over the centuries, the island may have served as a seasonal camp, a refuge, or a small settlement site, though no major historic structures remain visible today. This deep human history adds a quiet sense of time and continuity to the island’s simple, natural landscape.

Nature and Quiet Escape

The island is thickly wooded, with native trees and undergrowth creating a sheltered, green environment. Birdlife, insects, and small mammals thrive in this protected setting, and the surrounding waters of Lough Neagh support a range of fish and waterfowl. Because access is limited to boats, the island remains relatively undisturbed, offering a peaceful atmosphere ideal for quiet walks, birdwatching, and simply listening to the sounds of wind, water, and woodland. There are no permanent buildings or facilities on the island itself, preserving its wild, natural feel.

Visiting by Boat

Coney Island can only be reached by boat, typically from the Maghery area on the Lough Neagh shore. Local boat operators and community groups sometimes run guided trips to the island, especially in warmer months, allowing visitors to land, explore briefly, and learn about its history and ecology. These trips are usually short and informal, focused on nature, local heritage, and the experience of being on a small island in a large lake. Visitors should come prepared with appropriate clothing, footwear, and supplies, as there are no shops, toilets, or shelters on the island.

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