Hotels in Acton

Several themes may be of interest when planning a trip to Acton: pilgrim routes, canal history and historic buildings in Acton and nearby Poyntzpass. If you are looking for a hotel in Acton, you could first consider whether you want your stay to focus more on pilgrim routes, nature and waterways, or local architectural history. The named places and routes offer different points of reference.

Routes with Different Points of Reference

The North South Way Peace Camino passes the Acton Visitor Centre and Lough Shark. A regional tourism feature from 2025 also lists the Acton Visitor Centre as an important pass stop on Saint Patrick’s Way. The points of reference differ for each route: the Peace Camino features the visitor centre and lake, while the Visitor Centre is highlighted as an important pass stop on Saint Patrick’s Way.

A route description available on the route portal in 2026 describes the Newry Canal Way as a 20-mile long-distance route from Portadown to Newry. It follows the restored towpath of the former Newry Canal. The towpath forms part of National Cycle Network Route 9 and is shared by pedestrians and cyclists. Check current conditions on the path before using it.

Lough Shark and Canal History

Acton Lake, also known as Lough Shark, is described as a refuge for wildlife. Construction of the canal led to the lake’s expansion. This brings together a connection with nature and a historic change at the same body of water: Lough Shark can be understood both through its described significance for wildlife and its development in connection with canal construction.

The Guidego app offers a GIS tour with information and photographs about the history of the Newry Canal. The tour format combines canal history with a digital collection of information and images. The Sluicekeeper’s Cottage in Acton has a different focus: it operates as an interpretation centre. Seasonal opening hours are listed as most weekends from Easter to Halloween, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Check before travelling whether these hours apply to your visit.

Historic Buildings in Acton and Poyntzpass

Acton Parish Church stands at the entrance to Poyntzpass, not in Acton itself. It was built in 1789, replacing an earlier church commissioned by Sir Toby Poyntz in 1684. Its tower bears a Georgian Memento Mori sundial by Thomas McCreash, dating from 1819; the building is listed as Category B. The church’s construction history and the tower’s distinctive feature can therefore be considered separately.

In the village of Acton, the Mill is the largest building; it was built around 1835. Acton School dates from 1819. The sundial on the church tower in Poyntzpass also dates from 1819, while the church itself was built in 1789. These dates therefore refer to different construction and architectural features, helping to distinguish the historical reference points chronologically.

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