Shopping Break

Shop ‘til you drop in the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion

The Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion’s great location means that people have been coming here on weekend shopping trips for years. Not only can shoppers avail of some great bargains from top international brands, they can also get the best of local craft and fashion in places that are experiences in themselves. Throw in a few treatments, maybe a couple of cheeky cocktails and a top-class place to stay and you’ve the makings of a memorable weekend away. 

Base yourself in Newry

Before you whip out your debit card or go in search of that to-die-for little black number, get yourself checked in. Newry has many top-class places to stay and the Canal Court Hotel is certainly up there. This 4-star hotel is located right in the heart of this bustling city and sits on the banks of Ireland’s oldest man made waterway, the Newry Canal. When it comes to water features, it’s fair to assume that you might be more interested in the hotel hot tub which looks out over Newry and makes up part of the enticing spa offering.  

Nearby at Buttercrane Shopping Centre you can warm up your on the likes of Jack & Jones, Ivy Lane, Vero Moda, Primark, Dunnes, Dv8, Argento and JD Sports... and don’t forget to visit the Yankee Candle store to bring something seasonal home. 

The Quays Shopping Centre is only around the corner, it’s one of the biggest draws to the city, this shopping centre has been welcoming bargain hunters and fashionistas since 1998. Inside are some of the biggest and best known brands from across the globe including Marks and Spencer, H&M, River Island, Superdry, Next, Houstons and Ernst Jones.  Sostrene Grene from Denmark has added to the centre’s kudos, and nothing draws a crowd like the scent of Lush cosmetics. If you’re looking for a treat, what about grabbing a collectable comic from Buzzard Comics or a proper hardback from Waterstones to enjoy as you sit back to enjoy a coffee.  

If you’re planning a trip to Northern Ireland’s great outdoors, there’s a Trespass clothing and equipment store here too and if the sometimes windy Mournes have made a meal of your hair,  there's more than enough hairdressers who will be more than happy to get you back in style just in time for your trip to the ten-screen cinema. 

In the centre of Newry City you’ll certainly want to check out Hill Street – the traditional shopping thoroughfare and home to many of the city’s oldest and most unique retailers. Here you will find the very dapper Taveys Mens wear and Newry’s very own Louis Boyd who has been working with some of the biggest names in fashion since 1960. Newry really has some great independent establishments such as Myrne Collective and Bernadette Elizabeth. 

Dress to impress and get on board the cocktail express

While shopping is great fun, let’s be honest, spending can be tiring. There’s really only one way to deal with that and that’s by consuming a few cocktails. Whether you head back to your hotel and get straight into your new outfits or you simply want a break from the shopping, Bellini’s in the city centre will welcome you with open arms. Sit up at the decadent bar or sneak into a cosy corner and give their signature Daiquiris a whirl. You’ll be hard pressed not to get sucked into a night out in this place. Bellini’s is one of those places where you end up staying for one more and before you know it you’re up singing with the live band or asking the DJ for more Abba - a good spot. 

You might also fancy checking out the coffee shops and restaurants on Monaghan Street. Art Bar Funkel is certainly worth a stop and you won’t go wrong with anything off the menu at Snaubs, a real local favourite. 

A country for crafts

Not far away is Slieve Gullion, here you’ll find ROGHA (Ring Of Gullion Handcrafts and Art), a community of Handcrafters and Artists from South Armagh who take their inspiration from the beauty and unique heritage around them. You could spend the day chatting to the amiable artisans of this community who are always more than happy to welcome visitors.

Having given it socks the day and night before, you might well want something a little more grounded for your second day of shopping around Mourne, Gullion and Strangford. Half an hour drive south of Newry you’ll find the utterly charming shop at Camphill Mourne Grange. All the items in this craft shop are handmade by locals, who don't let their learning disabilities get in the way of their creativity and productivity. Why not walk away with a beautifully patterned handwoven rug or cushion or remember St. Patrick's Day for years to come with a set of handmade candles inspired by the saint’s holiday. 

Chic shops in a seaside location

If you’re short of souvenirs there are also some excellent giftshops in Newcastle, Co Down, you’re sure to find a little something special at Serenity or the Newcastle Visitor Information centre. At Painted Earth, you’re likely to find a range of gifts like no other. It’s a small team with a big dream and the jewellery you’ll find here is utterly intriguing. Find that one off piece you’ve been looking or indulge in the natural aromas of the bath, beauty and wellness range they offer.  

Newcastle is known for it’s independent ladies boutiques, pop into Pure Chic for some fabulous Italian clothing or Wraps Fashion or have a browse around Wadsworth’s which is a high street landmark. McCready's Shoe Shop can't be missed, you might even pick up a bag to match your new footwear.

Another spot worth checking out for crafties is Blue Beans in Castlewellan. This is a truly local shop featuring the work of artists and makers from across Northern Ireland. It offers its customers a modern and contemporary outlook on old traditions and features exquisitely designed glassware as well as distinctive pottery and tableware, delicately scented soaps and handcrafted throws and scarves. Owner Claire Warn specialises in heirloom christening gowns and bonnets made from Irish linen. With over one-hundred producers on their books, there is sure to be something for everyone at Blue Beans. 

Not your normal shopping locations

Check out Montalto Estate in Ballynahinch, it is a perfect stop for those who love natural beauty.  Throughout the shop on the estate, you will find an extensive range of gifts and accessories that complement their core values of healthy living, wellbeing, family and nature.

Just up the road in Crossgar the Rademon Estate Distillery is a perfect stop off for a Shortcross Gin Discovery and Tasting experience.  Here you can purchase a unique gift in their shop for yourself or a friend.  You might want to do this after you visit the Crowe's Nest, it is the perfect shop to find that special gift or treat.

Whether it’s craft wear, big brands or just a weekend of indulgence that you’re after, Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion has plenty to choose from.