Must see attractions in Mourne Gullion Strangford

Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark has a wealth of attractions and things to do.  Explore the area and delve into the culture, folklore and legends.

Mourne

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Unveil the Magic of Montalto Estate, Ballynahinch

Montalto Estate is a fantastic spot to explore at your own pace, whether you're bringing small children or a group of old friends looking for a peaceful day out, Montalto has it all.

Treat yourself to Afternoon Tea at Montalto House for the ultimate Northern Irish country estate experience. Or, unwind at the café, where you can enjoy delicious meals all day, including special pizza evenings!

There are plenty of walking trails to choose from, The Woodland Trail famous for its fascinating historic trees, including native and naturalized birch, beech, Douglas-fir, and sycamore. The Garden Walk which is best seen in the spring, and full of deciduous azaleas and rhododendrons. The Lost Garden Trail  that uncovers the historic glasshouse remains and a replica of the original rose arbour. The Lake Walk is perfect for late spring or early autumn, it takes you past The Boathouse, surrounded by woodland planting and featuring a variety of acers, including stunning Japanese maples.

After exploring, don’t forget to visit the gift shop which has a fantastic selection of homeware and souvenirs.

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Discover the Historic Charm of Castlewellan Forest Park

Set amidst historic parkland, Castlewellan Forest Park was once the grand estate of the Annesley family. The stately home still stands, showcasing its timeless granite façade. The Annesley Walled Garden is a delightful spot for families, with its vibrant blooms and the playful Animal Wood Children’s area. For those who love adventure on two wheels, there are 27km of mountain bike trails waiting to be explored - just grab a bike from Life Adventure.

Castlewellan Lake is a hub for water sports and fishing, making it a perfect spot for a day of fun on the water. Don’t miss the Peace Maze, one of the world’s largest permanent hedge mazes, symbolizing the journey towards peace in Northern Ireland.

Nature lovers will be in awe of the award-winning Arboretum, one of Europe’s most extraordinary tree collections. Dating back to the 1800s, when the Annesley family began gathering exotic trees and plants from around the world, this arboretum has since become a national treasure, gifted to the state in 1969. Its beauty is partially owed to its sheltered location beside the slopes of Slieve na Slat.

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Seaford Gardens and Tropical Butterfly House

Visit Ireland’s oldest living maze at Seaforde Gardens, where you can also take a leisurely stroll around the beautifully landscaped ground or explore the butterfly house. Unwind at the café, where you can enjoy snacks and home-baked cakes in a tranquil setting and watch the  peacocks roam around freely.

Step into the Tropical Butterfly House, a lush, warm jungle where exotic butterflies flutter among the vibrant tropical plants, offering a close-up experience like no other. The enchanting Herb Garden sits beside the ‘Mughal Tower.’ Climb its spiral staircase to a raised viewing platform, the perfect spot to survey the walled garden below.

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Family Fun at Mountpanter Farm Park

Explore a custom-built play village with cosy playhouses, swings, slides, and even ride-on tractors for your little farmers! Meet adorable animals at the Petting Barn, from fluffy Guinea Pigs to or visit the Reptile Room for scaly Snakes and Lizards, and don’t forget the Lemurs, Llamas, Marmoset Monkeys, Parrots, Wallabies, and Meerkats! Or hop on the Deer Safari for close-up encounters with deer.

There is an awesome Bounce House with three different inflatables, an assault course for older kids to race through and a giant outdoor bouncy pillow!

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Step back in time at Dundrum Castle 

Dundrum Castle is an excellent medieval ruin in the coastal village of Dundrum. The Castle has has breathtaking views over Dundrum Bay and is an ideal place to bring children who love to play around the ruined walls. Surrounding the castle, a forest walk offers the perfect chance to spot local wildlife and enjoy nature. The visitor centre gives information on the people who lived and worked within its walls. Interpretive panels dotted around explain the castle’s origins, use and construction, and its historical significance to the area.

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Murlough National Nature Reserve

Murlough Bay Nature Reserve is managed by the National Trust and offers an unforgettable experience just outside the ancient village of Dundrum. It was the first ever nature reserve in Ireland and is spread across 500 acres, featuring a long sandy beach with the majestic Mourne Mountains as a stunning backdrop.

Explore the 6,000-year-old sand dune system and wander along a network of paths and boardwalks that wind through dunes, woodlands, and heathlands. Along the way, you'll encounter a stunning array of butterflies, wildflowers, and even some rare species like the Marsh Fritillary butterfly, which thrives in the natural conditions at Murlough. The site is also internationally important for wintering wildfowl and waders.

As you explore, don’t miss the historic Keel Point Gate Lodge, built around 1877 and the nearby Downshire Bridge. Whether you're walking through the dunes, spotting wildlife, or simply soaking in the panoramic views of Murlough Bay, this place is perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle and reconnecting with nature.

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Discover Adventure at Kilbroney Park, Rostrevor

Located at the base of Slieve Martin along the shores of Carlingford Lough, Kilbroney Park is a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features numerous walking trails, including the enchanting Narnia Trail and the scenic Cloughmore Trails. Kids will love the two well-equipped play areas, while older adventurers can hit the mountain bike trails, with bike rental and an uplift service available on-site. If you’re up for some friendly competition, the tennis courts are ready for a match, or you can book the BBQ area for a small gathering with friends.

Synge and Byrne café, open year-round, offers a cosy spot to relax with indoor seating or the option to take your meal to-go for a picnic on the grass. For breathtaking views, take the mountain drive above Kilbroney Park, where you’ll find the famous Cloughmore Stone, a 50-tonne granite boulder said to have been thrown by the legendary Fionn mac Cumhaill during the Ice Age. Stay overnight at Kilbroney Caravan and Camp Site to wake up surrounded by mountains, just a 10-minute walk from the village yet miles away from the hustle and bustle.

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Unleash Your Adventurous Spirit at Cranfield Beach

Cranfield beach is a stunning stretch of sandy beach at the mouth of Carlingford lough. With its gentle slope, it’s the perfect place to sunbathe during the summer or wrap up for a refreshing stroll in the cooler months. Cranfield is a treasure trove of fossils, where you can discover remnants of ancient sea creatures, see fossils of corals, sea shells and sea-lilies embedded in the limestone and shale from the ancient ocean bed.

Cranfield is also well known for the Haulbowline lighthouse and has guided ship through the Carlingford channel since 1824. Whether you’re a sun seeker, a fossil hunter, or a history buff, Cranfield Beach has something for everyone!

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Newry and Mourne Museum at Bagenal’s Castle 

Bagenal’s Castle is the site of the Newry and Mourne Museum which tells the story of the city as it grew from a market town with maritime trading links to the prosperous city we see today. Bagenal’s Castle itself was a fortified residence dating from the 16th century, before that an Abbey dating back to the 1100s stood here. The Museum holds a large collection of artefacts and memorabilia from the area, there are 3 floors of exhibitions and plenty of costumes for children to enjoy.

Audio guides are available in a selection of languages which bring the museums exhibitions to life as characters from the past tell stories.

Gullion 

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Journey into Nature’s Playground at Derrymore

Discover Derrymore House, a charming National Trust gem just outside Newry, perfect for a fun day out! The estate boasts 43 acres of lush parkland, dotted with scenic walking trails ready for you to explore and a dog exercise area where you can let your pooch loose. Take a short 5-minute stroll along the well-marked paths, and you’ll stumble upon a hidden children’s play area in the woods. It’s made of natural materials and surrounded by hedges, offering plenty of shaded spots for a cozy picnic.

Let  your imagination run wild as you venture down the sheltered pathway and through the stone archway, you’ll find yourself at a circular rath or ring fort, once part of an ornamental garden. Theres a large stone throne here too, just waiting to be claimed!

Derrymore House is also steeped in history. The Treaty Room, where the Act of Union between Great Britain and Ireland was drafted, is sometimes open for tours—so keep an eye out for the chance to step inside this historic space!

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Embark on a Mythical Adventure at Slieve Gullion Forest

Nestled on the lower slopes of the mystic Slieve Gullion mountain, this forest is a treasure trove of local folklore. It is steeped in local folkore and linked with Cú Chulainn, Fionn mac Cumhaill and the wicked Cailleach Beara, it’s a place where myths come alive. Kids will love the excellent playpark, with areas designed for all ages, while adventurers can explore a variety of trails, including Fionn’s Giant Adventure trail, complete with interactive sculptures that bring the stories to life. Stop by Synge and Byrne’s cosy café, open year-round with inviting indoor and outdoor seating.

The Slieve Gullion Adventure Playpark is perfect for little ones, with a specially designed toddler area and thrilling equipment for older kids. Grown-ups aren’t left out either, with a trim trail to keep active. For a unique experience, book a tour with the resident Elf, who offers bespoke, eco-themed school tours that are as educational as they are magical.

If you prefer to take in the stunning views without a hike, the 10km scenic forest drive is just the ticket. Or for those who love a good walk, a hiking trail leads to the ancient passage tomb on Slieve Gullion’s south summit, and continues on to Cailleach Beara’s Lough and a fascinating Bronze Age tomb.

Strangford

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Explore the Natural Beauty of Delamont Country Park, Killyleagh

Delamont Country Park, a sprawling 200-acre parkland on the shores of Strangford Lough, is the perfect gateway to this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. With plenty of walking trails and a fantastic children’s play area, it’s a haven for families and nature lovers alike. After a stroll, stop by Steamers Café for a coffee, and don’t miss the miniature railway that operates seasonally, offering fun rides for the little ones. There’s also plenty of open space for family picnics and games, making it a great spot for a relaxing day out.

Strangford Lough, a long sea inlet dotted with small islands, boasts a rich ecosystem of flora and fauna thanks to its sheltered conditions and strong tidal currents. If you’re looking to extend your stay, Delamont Caravan Park is just nearby, offering a cozy spot to spend the night under the stars.

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Wander through the past at Down County Museum, Downpatrick

Down County Museum is based in the historic buildings of the County Gaol of Down. It brings the heritage of County Down to life in fully accessible galleries, exhibitions and interactive activities for children.

Explore the history of the old Gaol which opened in 1796 and closed in 1830. Enjoy the permanent exhibitions on display or see one of the temporary exhibitions displaying objects. a shop which stocks an excellent range of books on local history, items of local crafts, children's goods and souvenirs.

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Dive into the history of Ireland at the Saint Patrick Centre, Downpatrick

Immerse yourself in Ireland’s rich history at the Saint Patrick Centre, home to the world’s only permanent exhibition dedicated to Ireland’s beloved Patron Saint. This unique experience offers an in-depth look at Saint Patrick’s life, with fascinating insights told in his own words. State-of-the-art multimedia displays bring his story to life, making it an engaging and educational journey for visitors of all ages.

Take some time to browse the fantastic Craft Store, where you can find beautifully crafted Irish gifts and souvenirs. If you’re feeling peckish, relax at the Garden Café, where you can enjoy a delicious lunch or a light snack.

From Winterfell to Summer: Discover Castle Ward, Strangford

Castle Ward mansion house was built in the 18th century and stands on gentle parkland that make up the 332-hectare walled demesne which over looks Strangford Lough. With 21 miles of trails winding through mature forests and meadows, it’s a paradise for walkers and cyclists alike. After exploring, relax in the charming Stableyard, where you can browse a second-hand bookshop or indulge in the shop and tea-room. Be sure to try the Dexter beef sausage rolls, made with beef from Castle Ward’s own herd of Dexter cattle.

Castle Ward is well known for being a key filming location for the first series of Games of Thrones, when the historic farmyard was transformed into ‘Winterfell’, the seat of the Stark family.