Things to Do
No matter how long your visit, there’s so much to see and do in the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion. Discover the land where the Mourne Mountains slope down to the sea.
There is something for everyone at the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion. With three areas of outstanding natural beauty, winding trails for walking and hiking, and a variety of waterways your Summer Adventures start here.
Explore the Mountains and Forests
Trek the Mourne Mountains with an expert guide. The Men of the Mournes can help you scale mountains. Discover a giant welcome from those who know the area like the back of their hands.
Conquer Slieve Gullion, Ireland's Mountain of Mystery. Take your kids on an adventure through the forest, or discover Fionn's Giant Adventure on the children's story trail.
Paddle the waters of Strangford Lough in a canoe, or plunge into the history of the Lecale Peninsula and explore the area that is home to Ireland's largest collection of tower-house castles.
Uncover the woodland trails, garden walks, and lakeside architecture of Montalto Estate. Discover this 18th Century Georgian Estate with a guided walk through the house and cultivated gardens. Something for all the family!
Sleep in the serene and ancient native woodland in Green Holiday Cottages and transport yourself into the ancient magic of the forest.
Why not explore the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion on two wheels? Hurtle down the twenty seven kilometre red trail at Rostrevor Mountain Bike Centre or take a leisurely cycle around the stunning Castle Ward.
Lakes, Rivers and the Irish Sea
Jump straight into the crisp waters of Bloody Bridge in Newcastle on a wet bouldering adventure. Be rewarded with the stunning views of the Mourne Mountains and the coastline. Be warned though, this isn’t for the faint of heart.
Boasting some of the freshest seafood in the whole of Ireland, savour our produce on the Cook to Catch Experience at Mourne Seafood Cookery School in Kilkeel.
Escape to Narnia
One of Northern Ireland's most famous sons, C.S. Lewis spent many of his boyhood holidays exploring the forests and babbling brooks of Rostrevor. This area inspired the creation of his magical world of Narnia.
Inspired by the Mourne landscape, Lewis wrote that the scenery "made me feel that at any moment a giant might raise its head over the next ridge". Explore the Narnia Trail at Kilbroney Park in Rostrevor and fall into the magic of another world.
Paint the Town Red in the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion
Discover the vibrant city of Newry. With bustling nightlife and theatres, Newry has cinemas, restaurants, and plenty to keep you entertained.
Experience an authentic 17th-century coaching Inn at Denvir's or call into the 18th century Cuan if you like the perfect pint of Guinness. Prefer spirits? Head to Killowen Distillery to try Ireland's oldest drink - Poitín. Just make sure you have a lift home!
Bag a Bargain in Newry City
Shop ‘til you drop in Newry's Hill Street, with its range of independent shops and stores then visit the Buttercrane and the Quays Shopping Centres in Newry City. After a long day of shopping, pamper yourself with a stay in the Canal Court Hotel and Spa and finally unwind.
Visit Good Craic Gifts and Souvenirs in Rostrevor to sample some of the quality craftsmanship that our region creates.
Tee Off in Style
Home to the Golf Digest 'Number One Golf Course in the World' come play at the Royal County Down to get a hole in one.
Stay at the exquisite Slieve Donard Resort and Spa and Tee up next door at the Royal County Down Golf Club, former host of the Walker Cup and the Irish Open.
The Land of Saint Patrick
Follow in the footsteps of Ireland's patron saint and learn more about St Patrick's story in the The Saint Patrick Centre, Downpatrick. Discover his legacy and influence around this land on the Pilgrim’s Walk.
A unique, marine heritage site, the Strangford Lough area is steeped in history and intrigue. Delve into an area famous for its saints and scholars by savouring a bespoke Strangford Lough Sustainable Journey walk.
After a long walk, rest your weary head in style. Nestled in the ancient grounds of the Grade A listed Killeavy Castle Estate, sleep at the base of Slieve Gullion in their premier, boutique accommodation.
History and Culture
Culture vultures need not fear, the Down Arts Centre offers an array of shows celebrating local and national playwrights. History lovers have plenty of opportunities to learn more about the region by visiting the Newry and Mourne Museum located in Bagenal's Castle - a 16th Century fortified house or Down County Museum, in Downpatrick, a former gaol.
The unique and breathtaking Castle Ward boasts unparalleled views of Strangford Lough. Famous for its unique interior design, Castle Ward is built in the classical Palladian style on one half, while the other half is elaborately Gothic style.
Think you recognise Castle Ward? The majestic space is home to Winterfell Castle - the familial seat of the Starks. Try your hand at archery while dressed in the robes and furs of the North.
Want to see more of Game of Thrones® filming locations? The Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion is home to the River Quoile, Tollymore Forest, Audley's Field, and Inch Abbey, which all featured in the popular series.
Speaking of unique structures, visit one of the oldest inscribed stones in Ireland, Kilnassagart. At the heart of Celtic history in Ireland, it stands on a road which leads to the distant Hill of Tara.
