If you are looking for a scenic drive or planning a long-distance group tour, the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion is a unique place to explore and experience.
It is so easy to get to and around this region which is famous for its natural beauty, spectacular landscapes, charming villages, and towns and, of course, a warm welcome from the locals.
Driving in the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion
Much of the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion is within one-hour travelling time of two international airports, one regional airport, and two international passenger ferry ports.
If you’re exploring by car, you’ll experience dramatic coastal drives, unique geological and marine marvels, spectacular views and walks, magnificent National Trust mansions and exquisite gardens, world-class golf, and mountain biking for you to discover.
The Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion is a driver’s paradise, so much so that you’ll be rewarded with not one, not two, but three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The magical Mourne Mountains, Ring of Gullion, Strangford and Lecale areas are a natural wonderland, bursting at the seams with experiences to make you want to extend your stay and keep coming back.
Coach Tours
Touring around the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion by coach or minibus allows passengers to relax, unwind and enjoy the scenery of a peaceful and unspoilt environment. Whether you are planning a tour of adventure sports, walking, nature, or if your group simply wish to travel from one fine hostelry to the next – the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion has it all.
We have produced guides to help group organisers, tour planners and drivers to plan visits and excursions to get the maximum enjoyment from the area, whilst at the same time preserving the area’s special qualities.
We also have a number of coach parks throughout the region to ensure the smooth running of your tour throughout your stay.
Guided Road Tours
There are several local tour guides that offer vehicle hire and guided driving tours throughout the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion. There are also driving audio guides for the Ring of Gullion to assist you in your travels through this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Car and Coach Parking in the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion
The Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion has a number of car parking facilities, including free to use car parks and charged car parks, contact the friendly staff in the Visitor Information Centre for further information, telephone 033 0137 4046.
Free Car Parks
If your group is travelling to the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion by public transport, enjoy free car parking at Newry Train Station. Downpatrick Bus Station has free parking to the rear of the depot whilst all the car parks in Newcastle are free of charge and are located close to the Bus Station. A Pay and Display car park is in operation at Newry Bus Station.
Shuttle Services
For many visitors, walking in the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion is extremely popular. There are a number of car parks dotted around the area but when they are busy remember to show consideration for residents and other road users. We always ask our visitors to not park on narrow country roads as tractors and large vehicles need to pass.
Plan your route and make use of the Mourne Rambler bus service in the summer months or book the Mourne Shuttle Service.
Rules of the Road
Driving in Northern Ireland (NI) is governed by rules set out in the Highway Code. For further information on driving in Northern Ireland, visit NIDirect.
