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The sun is finally out, and the birds are singing so if you’re looking for a nature filled getaway then look no further than the Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion destination. This stunning area makes for an unforgettable camping experience, with plenty of outdoor activities, gorgeous scenery, and serene campsites.

The Heritage Walks Festival is a range of walks providing a great opportunity to connect with local heritage and environment in the Downpatrick area between Monday 12 and Saturday 17 June. 

The Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion is home to a variety of amazing heritage trails which are well worth exploring.  The trails will take you to historical monuments and give you a chance to explore the rich and beautiful local landscape. Take time and enjoy the locations and beautiful scenery in our UNESCO Global Geopark.

The Mourne Mountains, Ring of Gullion and Strangford Lough have just gained official Geopark accredition, so if you're looking for a unique and fascinating outdoor experience in Northern Ireland, look no further than the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark. This geopark is a designated UNESCO site that showcases the geological wonders of the region, as well as its rich history and culture.

The Mourne Mountains are a beautiful range located in Northern Ireland. They offer a variety of hikes and stunning views that are perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Don’t get hangry when you’re hiking, walking or having fun - grab some grub and pack a picnic!

At last, the weather is starting to turn in our favour and the sun has got his hat on!  We will be spending more time outdoors and what could be better than a beautifully prepared picnic to keep us well fed and watered on our day out?  Don’t feel like making your own?  Why not have a picnic prepared for you? 

May is National Walking Month!

It's time to get the hiking boots out and go explore the wonderful landscape of Mourne, Gullion and Strangford.  It doesn't matter what your preference is this region can cater for every need.  You can explore the coast, head inland to one of the many forest parks, uncover beautiful gardens or if you have the energy, pack your rucksack and head off into the mountains.

This May we are so lucky to have three bank holidays to take some time off to be with our friends and family, so let us show you how to enjoy every moment, even on a budget!

The Mourne Mountains, Ring of Gullion and Strangford Lough areas are home to expansive woodlands and dedicated parks. Whether you want to escape to the forest, spend a fun family day out in one of our many adventure play parks, or enjoy an event, you’ll be well catered for in Counties Down and Armagh. 

Spring is a great time of the year, the weather improves and the daylight lengthens, and as we celebrate Gardening Week in early May, gardening enthusiasts will love this wee corner of the world.

Saturday 29 April – Saturday 6 May

The first of May marks the beginning of the ancient festival of Bealtaine,  Féile na Bealtaine, and is the halfway point between the spring equinox and summer solstice.  Bealtaine, translating as month of May, is still used in the Irish language today and is said to derive from Old Irish meaning, bright fire.  

A night in gaol to remember!

Downpatrick Gaol was opened in 1796 and until its closure in 1830, was the holding place for many thousands of prisoners before their transportation to Australia but for us, our evening in gaol was one to remember and we didn’t want to leave! 

We are delighted to have so many local restaurants and business's feature amoung the winners at two prestigious award ceremonies held recently.