Things to Do in and Around Dundrum
Dundrum Castle & Historic Trail
Step back in time with a visit to Dundrum Castle, a 13th-century Norman fortress with panoramic views over the bay and countryside. Follow the Dundrum Historic Trail to explore hidden gems and learn about the village’s rich heritage.
Murlough National Nature Reserve
Just outside the village, Murlough Nature Reserve is a haven for nature lovers. With its dunes, sandy shores, and diverse wildlife, it’s the perfect spot for a peaceful walk, a scenic picnic, or a dog-friendly adventure.
Coastal Beauty & Outdoor Activities
Take a leisurely stroll along Dundrum Inner Bay, explore nearby Murlough Beach or Tyrella Beach, or venture into the Mourne Mountains for a hiking experience like no other.
Where to Eat
.jpg)
Dundrum is a foodie’s dream, boasting some of Northern Ireland’s best restaurants and cafés.
-
Mourne Seafood Bar – Famous for its fresh, locally sourced seafood, a must-visit for any seafood lover.
-
The Bucks Head – Award-winning dining by Top Chef Alex Greene, offering modern Irish cuisine with a local twist.
-
Scopers – Northern Ireland’s first zero-waste hot food bar, run by award-winning chef Paul Cunningham, serving sustainable dishes made with ingredients sourced within a 15-mile radius.
-
Tonn Ruary Café – A newly opened café serving up delicious lunches, coffee, and sweet treats in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
-
Dundrum Inn – UK Pub of the Year (Co. Down) & Rural Startup of the Year (2022), this traditional Main Street pub is at the heart of the community. Enjoy great food, drinks, and even stay overnight in their beautifully renovated guest rooms.
Where to Stay
-
Dundrum Inn Guest Accommodation – Boutique-style rooms with sea views and a Taste of Ulster breakfast.
-
1 Bar View – A three-bedroom terrace house, ideal for a small family or group, available for self-catering stays.
-
Dundrum Heritage Cottages – Two beautifully restored cottages with wood-burning stoves, perfect for a cosy retreat.
-
Hill House – A traditional cottage with a large garden, offering spectacular views of the Mourne Mountains and the seaside town of Newcastle.
-
Les Trois Blocs – A separate annex in a detached house, conveniently located within walking distance of the village.
Explore the Best of County Down
-
Mourne Mountains – Stunning hikes with breathtaking views.
-
Tollymore & Castlewellan Forest Parks – Beautiful woodland trails, outdoor activities, and historic landscapes.
.jpg)
With its stunning scenery, welcoming community, and incredible food scene, Dundrum truly lives up to its title as the best place to live in Northern Ireland.
Why not visit and experience it for yourself?
Believed to have been built in or around 1177, Dundrum Castle was built by John De Courcy as part of his coastal defence after he invaded Ulster. Dundrum Castle is located on a wooded hill north-west of Dundrum village near Newcastle.
A short coastal cycle with views across Dundrum Inner Bay
Dundrum Heritage Trail takes you on a journey through the village and tells the story of the commercial and maritime heritage - Trail map available to download at www.visitmournemountains.co.uk or from Newcastle Visitor Information Centre.
This 5 mile stretch of golden sands is still the essence of the resort and is hugely popular for swimming, sunbathing and other forms of recreation.
Murlough National Nature Reserve is a fragile 6000 year old sand dune system owned by the National Trust and managed as Ireland’s first Nature Reserve since 1967. It is an excellent area for walking and bird watching.
Our aim is to provide locally sourced seafood at an affordable price. All our produce is sourced from local ports and delivered daily to ensure freshness and quality.
Under new ownership, Bronagh McCormick and Alex Greene are thrilled to unveil an exciting transformation at The Bucks Head! The Bucks Head will welcome you with a fresh new look, promising an inviting atmosphere and unforgettable moments. Join us as we embark on this exciting journey, redefining the essence of The Bucks Head for a new era! While our rooms remain under refurbishment, we are delighted to share our Main Restaurant and Front Bar are open.
6 course tasting menu at Scoper's in Dundrum, County Down. Booking essential as space is limited.
The Dundrum Inn is situated in the beautiful village of Dundrum on the shores of Dundrum Bay. UK Pub of the Year 2022, best in County Down
The Dundrum Inn 1834 offers accommodations in Dundrum, an 8-minute walk from Murlough National Nature Reserve. Located on the beachfront, this property features a restaurant, a bar and a garden. Located 1 minute walk from the beach perfect for open water swimming. A new era, inspired by the past. Here serving our community since 1834 (190 years) A beloved destination for families, golfers, and holiday travellers. Our Guest rooms are situated above our award winning Pub - The Dundrum Inn Est.1834 is on the Main Street.
A 3 bedroomed terrace house suitable for up to 4 adults or a small family. Minimum booking of 3 nights. Close to local amenities, Dundrum Castle, Murlough nature reserve and beach. Patio garden and off-street parking space.
Tyrella beach and conservation area is a small, enclosed dune complex within Dundrum Bay. It is a wide, flat, sandy beach two kilometres long and backed by 25 hectares of mature dunes in a conservation area.
Tollymore Forest Park has panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the sea at Newcastle and is open to the public all year. Tollymore Forest covers an area of almost 630 hectares at the foot of the Mourne Mountains.
