Heritage Trails

The Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion's walking trails are steeped in the historical and cultural heritage of Northern Ireland. As you ramble through the local countryside, you can take a step back in time and immerse yourself in the culture of local residents across the ages. 

Of course, heritage trails are an incredible way to experience nature too. All across the destination, the local landscape has played a massive role in the history and development of the region. 

Victorian and Early Christian History in Rostrevor 

Sitting between the slopes of Slieve Martin and the shores of Carlingford Lough, you’ll find the Rostrevor Village Heritage Trail. The trail comprises around twenty heritage sites, including the 18th century Old Crag graveyard, the Victoria Square, and more modern attractions like the Narnia Trail. 

Tread in a long time retreat for famous guests, where Charles Dickens visited in the 1800s. A century later, Queen Elizabeth II visited Rostrevor with the Queen Mother in 1937. 

Meet the Normans at Dundrum 

Dundrum Heritage Trail tells the story of Dundrum’s commercial and maritime heritage throughout the centuries. On this coastal trail, you’ll experience a wide variety of impressive sites, all in the shadow of the Mourne Mountains. 

Dundrum Castle is the trail's crown jewel. It was built in 1177 by the Ango-Norman John de Courcy to defend against marauding enemies. The Great Circular Keep and Gatehouse were added in the 13th century as Dundrum grew in stature. 

Walk in the Footsteps of St. Patrick 

Step back into the land of saints and scholars along the St. Patrick’s Trail. Begin your pilgrimage at the St. Patrick Centre in Downpatrick, close to where Patrick himself is buried 

Visit the Struell Wells near Downpatrick, where the waters are said to have healing powers. Legend has it that St. Patrick once sang Psalms here naked throughout the night, but we’d recommend packing some warm clothing instead. 

Commercial History in Castlewellan 

Experience County Down’s industrial heritage in Castlewellan. The town is unique in Ireland for its two chestnut-lined town squares. Castlewellan has always shown a touch of class, owing to its thriving linen and shoemaking industries over the centuries. 

You’ll also be amazed by the dark side of Castlewellan’s history. In 1881, the local landowners were forced to flee to the Mediterranean on their yacht to avoid Land League protests. How the other half live. 

A Gateway to the Sea at Kilkeel 

Take a trip to the ancient Kingdom of Mourne. A visit to the historic kingdom’s principal town, Kilkeel, is like stepping back in time. You’ll sample the fruits of the sea in the home of Northern Ireland’s largest fishing fleet. 

If you’re lucky, you might even get to meet Kilkeel’s most famous residents, Salt and Pepper. These local seals can often be spotted from the pier, as they hunt for their dinner. 

Village Life in Bessbrook and Camlough 

Journey through our industrial past along the Camlough and Bessbrook Heritage trail. Following the course of the Camlough river, the trail takes in important sites from the area’s history as a heartland of the linen industry. 

Gaze up at the Craigmore Viaduct, or the Bessbrook Mill, or stop for a picnic along the river’s banks. 

Thousands of Years of History Around Strangford Lough 

The shores of Strangford Lough have been inhabited for thousands of years, with large catchments of Mesolithic flint middens still being uncovered to this day. Later, the area was home to Vikings, Normans and Victorians alike. 

The Strangford Lough Heritage Trail offers visitors the opportunity to experience the span of this history in a microcosm.