The Mourne Mountains
The Mourne Mountains are the highest and most dramatic mountain range in Northern Ireland, its summits crowned by granite towers. The mountains themselves are criss-crossed by an unrivaled network of paths and tracks. The area was voted the ‘Best Walking Destination’ in Northern Ireland in WalkNI’s inaugural awards. The routes provide enthusiastic walkers with incredible opportunities for exploration.
Mountpanther Farm Park
A family run farm park based just outside Newcastle Co. Down, established in 2017, they have been providing families with unforgettable experiences and lasting memories. Mountpanther Farm Park is the perfect opportunity to let your children run wild. Enjoy indoor and outdoor play areas, a wide range of animals to interact with, and activities throughout the year.
Silent Valley & Ben Crom Reservoirs
Silent Valley is a picturesque area in the Mourne Mountains of County Down, Northern Ireland. Located in the shadow of Slieve Donard, the highest peak in the range, Silent Valley is a peaceful and tranquil spot, known for its stunning views and diverse wildlife. Its forests are home to a variety of birds, such as the chaffinch, jay and crossbill, as well as mammals like red squirrels, badgers and weasels. The area is also popular with walkers and hikers, who can explore its many trails and pathways, while the nearby Silent Valley reservoir offers plenty of opportunities for canoeing, fishing and sailing. With its stunning scenery and abundance of wildlife, Silent Valley is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of the Mourne Mountains Slieve Donard.
Castlewellan Forest Park
Located in a dramatic setting of mountains and sea, this is one of the most outstanding tree and shrub collections in Europe. The beauty, vigour and perfect shape of the trees in the National Arboretum attract tree enthusiasts from around the world. To walk around the forest park's mile-long lake, encountering some intriguing modern sculptures on the way, is to enjoy a great experience of eighteenth-century landscaping. One of Northern Ireland's most famous lakes, a stunning Victorian Castle, incredible panoramic views, scenic walking trails, 27km of Mountain Bike Trails, Nature Play perfect for the kids, an onsite multi-activity centre, hedge maze and equestrian centre, Castlewellan Forest Park boasts all of this and more making it a must-visit for all ages.
Murlough National Nature Reserve
At the edge of Dundrum Bay and the Mourne Mountains, the Murlough National Nature Reserve is a fragile 6,000 year-old sand dune system, owned by the National Trust. 2.5 miles of paths and boardwalks take you through dunes, woodland and heath. Look out for butterflies, wild flowers, wintering wildfowl and common and grey seals. The best sort of traveling companions. Whether you’re taking your tentative first steps along a mountain trail or fast-tracking your way to the summit, the Mourne Mountains have a walk or a hike just made for you. So it’s time to pack those boots and start your adventure.
Tollymore Forest Park
Whatever you’re into, Tollymore Forest Park delivers in spades. Take a gentle stroll, go on a family picnic by the Shimna River or go horse riding or nature trailing – it’s big enough for everyone. There’s even room for Game of Thrones fans to go location spotting. You’ll also see plenty of curiosities to keep your imagination fired. Or discover that oak wood from here was used in the RMS Titanic. Amazing what you’ll find when you lose yourself here!
Royal County Down Golf Club
Royal County Down is located in one of the world's most naturally beautiful links settings in the Murlough Nature Reserve. Against the magnificent backdrop of the Mountains of Mourne, the links stretches along the shores of Dundrum Bay, zigzagging back and forth to provide a different vista from virtually every hole.
Newcastle Community Cinema
Newcastle Community Cinema is both a cinema and a hub for community activities, arts & entertainment. With regular movie screenings as well as acts ranging from stand up comedy and music to community activities and markets, there’s something for everybody. Conveniently located in the center of town.
Bars & Restaurants
Newcastle is fast becoming a foodie hotspot in Northern Ireland boasting everything from Fine Dining to Pub Grub. You’re never too far away from a pint or a cup of coffee in Newcastle, not to mention the famous ice cream shops and amusement arcades.
Mourne Sea Tours
Mourne Sea Tours are the only licensed sea tour operator within the area offering boat trips for groups to experience the stunning views of the Mourne Mountains from a unique perspective.