Slieve Gullion Forest Park

Slieve Gullion Forest Park is a must visit for the young and young at heart alike, providing award winning play facilities for children, memorable walks, stunning trails and scenic views. Slieve Gullion Forest Park offers the unmissable opportunity to experience tranquil woodland trails, stunning views across the Ring of Gullion, Mourne Mountains, Cooley Peninsula and Armagh Drumlins and offers top class facilities for walkers and families.

Map of Slieve Gullion Forest Park

Click here to view the Slieve Gullion Forest Park site map.

Discover the Beauty of Slieve Gullion Forest Park

With plenty of family fun things to do, from following Fionn's Giant Adventure (previously known as the Giant's Lair) in the wonderful Hawthorn Hill Forest Nature Reserve and then along the forest trails.  Explore the Adventure Playpark (including picnic areas) and visit the education areas within our walled garden to learn more about Slieve Gullion's geology, flora, fauna and habitats.  A fun packed day out for all the family making memories.

Where to find Visitor Information at Slieve Gullion Forest Park

Slieve Gullion Visitor Information building is located beside the playpark and contains toilets, an accessible toilet with shower (requires radar key) and a self-guided visitor information room with maps and a video showing activities at the park as well as family-friendly activities in the surrounding area.

Family-Friendly Activities and Play Areas

Set in the beautiful grounds of Slieve Gullion Forest Park, the perfect start to any family trip to the Forest begins with a stop off at our action-packed Adventure Playpark.

We have something for everyone and the Slieve Gullion Adventure Playpark is guaranteed to keep kids of all ages delighted and thoroughly entertained. It includes a specially designed toddler’s area, adventure and play equipment for the older kids, the “Slieve Gullion ZIP” and even an outdoor gym for the adults. And once you have all burnt off some energy on the slides, climbing frames and outdoor gym equipment, made a wish on the wishing chair and made your way out of the maze, treat yourselves to a delicious treat at the Slieve Gullion Cafe (located at the front of the Walled Garden) – you’ve earned it!

The Slieve Gullion Adventure Playpark is a must visit for the young and young at heart alike, providing award winning play facilities for children and young people. 

Fionn's Giant Adventure - A Family-Friendly Experience

Fionn's Giant Adventure (formerly known as the Giant's Lair Story Trail) is an exciting self-guided walk at Slieve Gullion Forest Park. Help save our giant hero Fionn Mac Cumhaill from the wicked witch (Cailleach Beara). Hobbits, fairies and mythical warriors will guide you on your way.

Download our app to take photos with the legendary Fionn Mac Cumhaill as you trek along his magical adventure trail. Find out more HERE. 

Slieve Gullion Scenic Forest Drive

Slieve Gullion Scenic Forest Drive takes you through 10km of woodland and mountain heath which turns a glorious purple in the summer, taking in amazing sights along the way.

A way-marked trail leads from the mountain car park (the mountain car park is located 3.8km (2.4 miles) from the main car park) to the ancient passage tomb on the south summit of Slieve Gullion, continuing on to Cailleach Beara’s Lough, the Bronze Age Tomb, and down the north side of the mountain.  The Slieve Gullion Passage Tomb is well worth a visit, with an annual Winter Solstice (21 December) event dating back thousands of years.

Events in Slieve Gullion Forest Park

Footsteps in the Forest  is a halloween-themed festival runs annually in October, with something for all the family.  Visitors have an opportunity to encounter mythical people, hear their stories of a world that has been forgotten and explore their woodland realm through the magical living storybook tour. 

Plan Your Visit to Slieve Gullion Forest Park

We offer guided experiences for individuals right up to large school groups.  Experiences range from knowledgeable mountain walking guides to fun-filled elf led adventure (charges apply).  For more information please email slieve.gullion@nmandd.org 

Outdoor Performance Space in Slieve Gullion Forest Park

The Outdoor Performance Space is located within the picturesque Walled Garden at Slieve Gullion Forest Park.Suitable for audiences up to 200 persons, the space offers a perfect location for performances, presentations or outdoor meetings. Power is available as well as a range of lighting and sound equipment.

If you are interesting in hiring the Outdoor Performance Space in Slieve Gullion Forest Park, please contact the Visitor Information building onsite or email slieve.gullion@nmandd.org 

The Outdoor Performance Space in Slieve Gullion Forest Park is part funded by:

Frequently asked Questions

Where is Slieve Gullion Forest Park?

Slieve Gullion Forest Park is located in the heart of the Ring of Gullion at 89 Drumintee Road, Killeavy in County Armagh BT35 8SW.

What are the opening hours of Slieve Gullion Forest Park?

Slieve Gullion Forest Park opening hours are:
- March and October 9am - 6pm
- April and September 9am - 8pm
- May to August 9am - 9pm
- November to February 9am - 5pm.  
The Park is closed on Christmas Day.

Is there a car parking charge at Slieve Gullion Forest Park?

Access to the park on foot or by bicycle is free. Charges apply for the parking of vehicles. Click here for more details.

Are dogs allowed in Slieve Gullion Forest Park?

Dogs are allowed in Slieve Gullion Forest Park but must be kept under control at all times.  Dogs are not allowed in the Adventure Playpark. 

Is there accommodation close to Slieve Gullion Forest Park?

Click here to view available accommodation in the local Ring of Gullion area. 

How do I get to Slieve Gullion Forest Park?

Travelling from either Belfast or Dublin on the A1, exit at Forkhill B113.  At the roundabout follow the signs for Slieve Gullion Forest Park.

Is there a cafe in Slieve Gullion Forest Park?

Yes.  The cafe is located at the front of the Walled Garden. An ice cream van also operates at the play park thoughout the summer months.

Are there toilets in Slieve Gullion Forest Park?

Yes.  The toilets are adjacent to the car park and include baby changing facilities.

Is there a children's play park in Slieve Gullion Forest Park?

Yes click here to find out more about the Adventure playpark

Are there Picnic Facilities in Slieve Gullion Forest Park?

Yes there is a picnic area within the adventure playpark.

Can I Barbeque in Slieve Gullion Forest Park?

No barbeques are not allowed in Slieve Gullion Forest Park.

How long are the walks in Slieve Gullion Forest Park?

Signposted walks range from 1.6km to 15.3km.  The Mountain path is steep at the start and the end.

What activities can you do in Slieve Gullion Forest Park?

Enjoy the walking Trails through mature woodlands.  Take the 10km Scenic drive which offers stunning views of the surrounding area.  Visit the adventure playground. Explore Fionn's Giant Adventure.