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SCENIC views from a tranquil location make the Black Lough a popular destination for a dander. Also known as Ballysaggart Lough, the area provides an ideal walking location, with the spires of the local Church of Ireland and St Patrick’s Church rising above Dungannon.
The Black Lough is maintained by Mid-Ulster District Council and can be accessed via the Eglish Road. There is ample carparking and while the busy traffic route is nearby, it’s soon forgotten as you make your way around the large expanse of water.
The Black Lough takes its name from an old Irish ‘field or townland of the priests’, marking the existence of a priory close to the Lough which was then relocated to Donaghmore around 400 years ago.
A Ballysaggart Environmental Group was formed in 2004 to raise awareness and protect the unique habitat of the area, which includes 18 of the 102 species of bird which are on the endangered list.
The Lough is also within the Lough Neagh drainage basin. The pathways are well maintained, making the walk suitable for all abilities. There are also numerous picnic tables and summer seats located intermittently.
Watch out, too, for the reflections of the trees on the surface of the Lough and be sure to take time to drink in the solitude of this oasis just a short distance from the town and, of course, the ducks and swans. The Lough is also home to Canadian geese.
The walk takes around 20 minutes to complete. Work is due to start soon on the repair of a wall and fence at the carpark entrance, but this in no way affects the walk or enjoyment of it. Efforts to have the walk continued around the complete circumference of the Lough are continuing by Mid-Ulster Council and would certainly be a welcome addition. But it‘s still an attractive route which is well worth visiting, and the well-maintained paths make it suitable for all times of year.
