The Irish Road Trip

26 Best Things To Do In County Down In 2024

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 31, 2023

26 Best Things To Do In County Down In 2024

There’s  endless  things to do in County Down.

However, for some reason many people pass this glorious county by, despite the fact that it boasts many of the most scenic places to visit in Northern Ireland .

Home to the Mourne Mountains, the Ards Peninsula, breath-taking coastline, spectacular forest parks and… OK, you get the picture.

Table of Contents

The best things to do in County Down

mourne mountains

Photos via Shutterstock

From tough and rewarding hikes, like Slieve Donard, to some of the more notable Game of Throne filming locations , Down has a fair bit going for it!

Below, you’ll discover what to do in County Down at any time of the year. Dive on in!

1. Tollymore Forest Park

Tollymore Forest Park

Next up is Tollymore Forest Park – Northern Ireland’s first state forest park. If you’ve yet to visit Tollymore, you really are in a treat.

You’ll find it finely plonked at the foot of the Mourne Mountains , where it looks like something from a Lord of the Rings movie.

Home to the fairytale-like Foley’s Bridge and some of the finest forest in the land, there’s several trails to tackle, like the Arboretum Path (25 minutes), the River Trail (1.5-2 hours) and the Drinns Trail (3-4 hours)

A visit to Tollymore is one of our favourite things to do in County Down for good reason.

2. Slieve Donard

highest mountain northern ireland

Slieve Donard (850m/2789ft) is the highest peak in Northern Ireland and it’s one of the more popular Mourne Mountain hikes .

Our go-to walk up Donard is the linear there-and-back Glen River trail, which stretches for around 4.6km (9.2km in total) and takes 4 – 5 hours to conquer.

While good fitness is needed, this trail is one of the easier to follow in the Mournes. Even so, proper planning and prep are needed.

3. Castlewellan Forest

Castlewellan Forest Park

Castlewellan Forest is a handy option for those of you looking for things to do in County Down with family.

Located, unsurprisingly enough, in Castlewellan, the park is a staggering 460-hectares in sizes and it’s home to plenty to see and do.

For those with kids, there’s the Peace Maze which reputedly takes around 40 minutes to complete. There’s also the 18th century National Arboretum of Northern Ireland and a clatter of walking trails to head off on.

4. Beaches galore

Helen’s Bay Beach

Many of the best places to visit in County Down are the often-missed beaches dotted along it’s coastline.

And, while the likes of Newcastle Beach and Helen’s Bay Beach are arguably the most popular, this is more than a two-horse county.. Here’s some more mighty County Down beaches:

  • Rossglass Beach
  • Ballywalter Beach
  • Ballyholme Beach
  • Tyrella Beach
  • Murlough Beach
  • Millisle Beach
  • Kilclief Beach
  • Cranfield Beach

See our guide to the best beaches in County Down for more (there’s plenty!).

5. Slieve Binnian

Slieve Binnian walk

The Slieve Binnian walk isn’t one to take lightly and solid levels of fitness are needed to conquer the 11.2km trail that takes from 3 – 4 hours to complete.

It kicks off from Carrick Little Car Park and proper planning and prep are needed before you set off.

However, those that climb Binnian on a fine day will be treated to some of the finest views in the Mournes.

6. Castle Ward

Castle Ward

Castle Ward near Strangford is a 820 acre estate that boasts finely manicured gardens, trails and a fortified tower house.

And, while it’s arguably now best-known as being the place that was used to portray Winterfell in Game of Thrones, this is a walkers paradise.

The estate is home to a whopping 21 miles (32km) of multi-use trails for exploring on foot, bicycle or on horseback.

7. Slieve Doan

slieve doan walk

Photos with thanks to @headinthewild

The Slieve Doan hike is one of our favourite things to do in County Down when the weathers fine – the views on a clear day are just something else!

The trail stretches for around 8 km (5 miles) return and should take 4-5 hours to complete, depending on pace.

Those that reach its summit on a fine day will be treated to one of the finest views in Down. Now, a warning – some websites describe this walk as easy – it isn’t.

It might be in comparison to some of the other Mourne walks , but this is still a tough hike that requires good fitness levels.

8. Kodak Corner and Cloughmore Stone

Cloughmore Stone

© Tourism Ireland photographed by Brian Morrison via Ireland’s Content Pool

There’s plenty of things to do in Rostrevor but the majority of them centre around the excellent Kilbroney Park .

It’s here that you’ll find glorious views out over Carlingford Lough along with some fairly unique attractions.

The first is the Cloughmore Stone which is a short walk from the car park. As a viewing point, this is hard to beat.

However, it has stiff competition from nearby  Kodak Corner that offers a vista that’ll imprint itself on your mind for many a year to come!

9. Delamont Country Park

Delamont Country Park

Delamont Country Park is another of the more overlooked places to visit in County Down, and you’ll find it on the shores of Strangford Lough .

Delamont is home to the Strangford Stone – the tallest megalith in Ireland along with endless walking trails.

The walks range from short and sweet to medium length. Some to consider are:

  • Delamont Corbally Walk (2.5 miles)
  • Delamont Garden Walk (0.7 miles)
  • Delamont Long Walk (4.3 miles)

10. The Montalto Estate

Montalto Estate

The Montalto Estate in Ballynahinch is a fantastic spot to whittle away a fine day, regardless of the time of year (although it’s particularly impressive in Autumn).

In 1657 the land was bought by Sir George Rawdon, and his descendants eventually built the impressive mansion house that sits near the lake.

There’s a mix of walks on offer here, each of which is family friendly. Here are a few of our favourites:

  • History Trail (2.7km): Follows a figure eight of the property (has some steps and incline)
  • Woodland Trail (2.2km): A looped trail with heaps of unique trees along the way
  • Garden Walk (1km): Best in Spring when the flowers are in full bloom

11. Crawfordsburn Country Park

Crawfordsburn Country Park

Crawfordsburn Country Park is situated along Belfast Lough and an early morning stroll here really is hard to beat.

Home to two beaches (Crawfordsburn Beach and Helen’s Bay Beach), a waterfall and some gorgeous forest trails, there’s something to discover around every turn.

If you’re visiting for the first time we’d recommend giving the Glen Walk a bash – this is a short, 1.5 mile trail that kicks off at the Visitor Centre and that takes you through some of the best the park has to offer (keep an eye out for Lanyon’s Viaduct).

12. Scrabo Tower

Scrabo Tower

Scrabo Tower is one of the more unique places to visit in County Down. It was built during the mid-19th century to commemorate the 3rd Marquess of Londonderry.

Now, this is what’s known as a ‘Folly’. A ‘Folly’ is a structure that was built to look like it had some grand purpose, while the reality was it was just for decoration.

If you can, aim to arrive up to Scrabo Tower for sunrise or sunset. The views from here are just something else (note: the walk up, while short, is very steep).

13. The Ards Peninsula

Ards Peninsula

The Ards Peninsula separates Strangford Lough from the Irish Sea’s North Channel and it’s well worth  dedicating some time to.

Although you could drive from the top of the peninsula to the bottom in under an hour, there’s a staggering amount of historical sites and attractions to be discovered along the way.

If you start your road trip around Ards at Bangor and drive clockwise, you’ll hit everything from Orlock Point and Ballycopeland Windmill to Burr Point, Portaferry, Greyabbey, Mount Stewart and plenty more.

14. Slieve Meelbeg and Meelmore

Slieve Meelmore And Meelbeg

The Slieve Meelbeg and Meelmore walk is a tough aul slog. The two peaks are the 6th and 7th highest in the Mournes and they can be tackled in one go, as they’re right beside eachother.

This is a looped trail and it  generally  takes between 3.5 to 4 hours in total, but it’s challenging and strenuous in places, so keep that in mind when planning.

It kicks off from the Ott car park and offers some stunning vistas to those that conquer it.

15. Mighty places to stay

Slieve Donard Hotel

Photos via Slieve Donard on FB

There’s some excellent hotels in Down for those of you that fancy making the county your base for a few nights.

Now, if you’re planning a hike, see our Mourne Mountain accommodation guide for places to stay near the various trails.

Or, if you fancy a bit of indulgence, there’s several good spa hotels and plenty of great hotels right by the sea, too.

16. The Silent Valley

Silent Valley Reservoir

The Silent Valley Reservoir is another of the more unique places to visit in County Down, and you’ll find it in the Mournes.

The Reservoir was built between 1922 and 1932 as a means of capturing the water that flowed down from the mountains.

The years of hard work paid off and, to this day, the reservoir provides all of the water for Down and a good chunk for Belfast, too.

There are several different trails to head off on here, from the Silent Valley Ben Crom Dam Walk (10.5 km/3.5 – 4.5 hours) to the shorter Heritage Trail (3km/1-hour).

17. WWT Castle Espie

Castle Espie Down

Photos via Castle Espie on FB

Another handy options for things to do in County Down with kids is  WWT Castle Espie , located on the banks of Strangford Lough, not far from Newtownards.

There’s a good mix of things to do in these beautifully maintained grounds, from the 1-mile Woodland Trail to a playground and cafe.

The estate is managed by the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust (WWT) and it boasts an abundance of wildlife along with gorgeous woodland to explore.

18. Murlough Nature Reserve

Murlough Nature Reserve

Murlough Nature Reserve in Dundrum is hard to beat. It’s here that you’ll find some of the finest examples of dune heath in Ireland.

There’s extensive boardwalk and paths that snake around the reserve and you’ll be able to soak up mountain and sea views as you stroll.

There’s a whopping 1,300 acres of upland to explore here. As you ramble, keep an eye (and ear!) out for the 720 species of butterflies and moths that call Murlough home.

19. The Game of Thrones studio

Games of Thrones Studio Tour

Courtesy of Game of Thrones Studio Tour via Ireland’s Content Pool

The Game of Thrones studio , which opened in 2022, is one of the newer things to do in County Down, and it’s a perfect rainy-day-activity if you’re a fan of the show.

You’ll find it in Banbridge where it boasts sets, costumes and some of the shows original sketches along with a load of interactive displays.

You’ll also get up close to the costumes from the series while getting an insight into how the show was created,

Now, keep in mind that there are no guided tours at present, so you’re free to wander around by yourself.

20. Slieve Croob

Slieve Croob walk

Slieve Croob is one of the lesser-known hikes in Northern Ireland , but it’s well worth doing, as the photos above should show you.

You’ll find Croob in the Dromara Hills north of the Mournes. This is a there-and-back walk that’s nice and easy to follow and that stretches fro around 4km.

It takes 1 – 1.5 hours to complete and follows a tarmac surface from the car park to near the top (you need to cross stiles to get to the summit). There’s a cairn on the top and the views on a clear day are outstanding.

21. Down County Museum

Down County Museum

Photos via Down County Museum on FB

Another handy one if you’re looking for things to do in County Down when it’s raining is the excellent Down County Museum .

Located in the town of Downpatrick, the museum is free to enter (some tours are paid) and boasts several excellent collection and exhibitions.

The museum collects, conserves, researches and displays objects and photographs that immerse visitors in the history of Down.

Down County Museum is located in what was once the county gaol, which opened in 1796 and closed in 1830.

22. Slieve Bearnagh

Slieve Bearnagh walk

At 739 metres (2,425 ft),  Slieve Bearnagh is the 4th highest peak in the Mournes and it provides a hard day of hiking for the more experienced walker.

If you follow the 9km trail via the Hare’s Gap you can expect to spend a good 3.5 – 4 hours on the go, battling ridges and many a steep climb.

However, for those used to tougher trails, you’ll be treated to unforgettable 360 summit views and a memorable days hiking.

23. John’s Point Lighthouse

John's Point

Photo via Shutterstock

St John’s Point Lighthouse near Rossglass is hard to miss. It stands at an impressive 40 metres above the water’s edge and it’s painted in massive black and yellow stripes.

The lighthouse separates Killough Harbour from Dundrum Bay and it was built back in 1844. St John’s has some interesting links to several notable names.

First is the Brendan Behan (celebrated Irish playwright) link. His father, a painter in Belfast, was commissioned to paint St John’s but, by all accounts, the result wasn’t very good!

You might also recognise the lighthouse from its mention in “Coney Island” by Van Morrison.

24. Charming towns and villages

Portaferry Strangford

If you’re looking to tackle the various places to visit in County Down, there’s plenty of great bases to explore from. Our personal favourites are Newcastle and Rostrevor and Newtownards.

However, Downpatrick, Bangor, Donaghadee, Newry and Holywood, Banbridge and Warrenpoint are good options, also.

If you fancy a break by the see away from the hustle and bustle, point your nose in the direction of Portaferry on the Ards Peninsula (you can get to it via the Strangford Lough Ferry if you don’t want to drive around).

25. Visit the St. Patrick Centre

St Patrick Centre

Photo courtesy of Tourism Northern Ireland via Ireland’s Content Pool

The Saint Patrick Centre in Downpatrick is the only permanent exhibition in the world dedicated to Ireland’s Patron Saint.

Here, you’ll be given the opportunity to explore the life of St. Patrick via award-winning interactive galleries and an IMAX experience.

The centre is also home to an art gallery, craft shop and garden cafe that offers views of Down Cathedral.

If you’re looking to learn more about St. Patrick, or if you’re looking for worthwhile things to do in County Down when it’s raining, get yourself here for an afternoon.

26. Dundrum Castle

Dundrum Castle

Photo by Bernie Brown via Ireland’s Content Pool

If you’re looking for a mighty view and a bit of history, then our next stop will be right up your street.

Dundrum Castle is situated on a beautiful wooded hill not far from Dundrum village in County Down.

The castle here, which is believed to have been built around 1177, was used to control the land routes from Drogheda to Downpatrick.

Those that visit will be treated to stunning views of Dundrum Bay and the Mourne Mountains.

27. Down Cathedral

Down Cathedral

I’ll be completely honest with you – up until we were researching things to do in County Down for this guide, I never knew St. Patrick was buried at Down Cathedral.

You’ll find Down Cathedral standing proudly on the Hill of Down, overlooking the historic town of Downpatrick. It’s here, in the Cathedral’s grounds, that St. Patrick is buried.

Although the stone that marks his grave wasn’t erected until 1900, it’s thought St. Patrick died in 461. The Cathedral itself is impressive inside and out and there’s several Celtic crosses in the grounds.

What to do in Down: What have we missed?

I’ve no doubt that we’ve unintentionally left out some brilliant places to visit in Down from the guide above.

If you have a place that you’d like to recommend, let me know in the comments below and I’ll check it out!

FAQs about County Down attractions

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What’s good for families?’ to ‘Where to go when it’s raining?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the best things to do in County Down?

In our opinion, Tollymore Forest Park, the Slieve Donard Hike, Castlewellan Forest and Slieve Binnian are hard to beat.

What are good places to visit in Down when it rains?

There’s the Game of Thrones studio, Down County Museum, the St. Patrick Centre, Downpatrick Cathedral and the Ulster Folk Museum.

tourist attractions newcastle co down

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 34 years and has spent most of the last 10 years creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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Monday 1st of August 2022

We always stop at Saint Patrick's Grave when visiting Ireland. Also the Struell Wells nearby. Legend is that Saint Patrick would soak himself at the wells and be reenergized. Today many believe the water in the wells has healing powers..

Thursday 2nd of September 2021

Check out Nendrum, it’s is an island in Strangford Lough with the ruins of a monastery dating back to the 5th century. The views are stunning, no boat required as it has a causeway to drive on. On the neighbouring island of Sketrick is Daft Eddy’s, a cafe and restaurant with great views of the Lough and fantastic food. It’s named after Daft Eddy, a legendary pirate who would smuggle bourbon from France and use the islands in the Lough to evade the customs boats.

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  • Things To Do On A Visit To Newcastle County Down

When you are visiting Northern Ireland especially in the spring or summer one place that I would highly recommend is a visit to Newcastle County Down. Whether you are a cycling enthusiast or just looking for something interesting to do with the family. There is an abundance of things to do in Newcastle County Down.

  • Go hiking up the mourne mountains and slieve donard.

Go hiking up the mourne mountains and slieve donard

2. A visit to the strand for their famous ice cream.

Strand Ice Cream Newcastle County Down

3. A trip to the smoothie bar – Visit the smoothie bar along the seafront and enjoy various smoothies  made with freshly grown wheatgrass.

smoothies newcastle county down

4. Take the kids to the amusement arcade to play games and go on the dodgems.

amusements newcastle county down

5. Have lunch in country fried chicken.

country fried chicken newcastle county down

6. Visit the Slieve Donard hotel for a typical Sunday Dinner.

slieve donard hotel newcastle county down

7. Go Pony trekking across the beautiful mourne countryside.

Pony trekking newcastle county down

8. Mountain biking down slieve Donard (Only for advanced mountain bikers if you take the steep path down by the river, prepare for sore wrists at the end of the descent though).

Mountain biking slieve donard newcastle county down

9. A visit to the beach and chill out and enjoy the 2 weeks a year sunshine if you get lucky 🙂

beach newcastle county down

10. A visit to the Murlough Reserve bird sanctuary at Strangford Lough.

Murlough newcastle county down

11. A visit to the Saint Patrick heritage centre 10 miles away in Downpatrick.

Saint Patrick heritage centre

12. A visit to Tollymore forest park

Tollymore forest park

13. A drive to the Silent Valley 15 miles outside Newcastle definitely well worth the extra drive with some amazing views.

Silent Valley Reservoir

14. On the way to Newcastle it is also worth a visit to Delamont country park which is also ideal for a picnic or barbecue.

Delamont Park Killyleagh

15. A drive along the Newcastle coast to Warrenpoint, and a trip to the Quays shopping centre in Newry.

The Quays Shopping Centre Newry

If you have any other suggestions that you feel we have missed out on then feel free to post them in the comments section below and we will add them here for you as well.

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Things to do in Newcastle Co Down: 12 things for your itinerary

tourist attractions newcastle co down

Looking for things to do in Newcastle Co Down? You’ve come to the right place.

Much like Portrush , Newcastle is a small seaside town with some big claims to fame. Newcastle is a gateway to the Mourne Mountains , a short drive to the Silent Valley Reservoir, and surrounded by way more National Trust sites than you could ever squeeze into a weekend getaway. Plus, you will definitely want to allow time for at least one beach day in summer.  

I have narrowed down your choices into five different categories of things to do – including the best, fun, and family things to do in Newcastle Co Down. Skim through and take all the inspiration you need.

Happy Travelling!

Best things to do in Newcastle Co Down

Tollymore Forest Park.

If you want an ultimate list of the best things to do, here you are! These are my tried-and-tested absolute favourites.

Take a walk around Tollymore Forest Park

I love Tollymore Forest Park. The streams, old archways, and tiny woodland paths; honestly, it’s just idyllic and feels like something out of a movie.

The architecture in the park dates back to the 18th century, so you’ll be taking lots of photographs. And while exploring 630 hectares in a day might be a push, I’d recommend walking at least one of the trails. You can spot waterfalls, ancient buildings, and cross rickety wooden bridges – the whole experience is something to savour.

Allow yourself at least two hours to thoroughly enjoy the grounds, and longer if you want to go swimming as well.

Visit the Silent Valley Reservoir

Another beautiful spot, visiting the Silent Valley Reservoir, is one of the best things to do in Newcastle Co Down.

The name is apt, as I visited at sunset and could have heard a pin drop if it wasn’t for the wind. Silent Valley Reservoir is a tranquil place to visit and is stunningly located in the centre of a valley and encircled by mountains.

If you aren’t planning a hike, visit at dusk or just before sunset for the most atmospheric experience and fewer crowds. Otherwise, arrive at midday and complete the 10.8km loop around the reservoir. The walk should take under 4 hours but is considered challenging – so allow yourself extra time and be prepared for off-roading, navigational challenges, and plenty of problem-solving!

Climb one of the Mournes

What would a visit to Newcastle be without a trip up the Mournes?

While Slieve Donard is the largest mountain to tackle (and the tallest in Northern Ireland), don’t rule out Slieve Binnian and Slieve Bearnagh. Walk NI has an excellent guide to the different Mourne walks that I’ll link  here . You can also read my complete guide to visiting the Mourne Mountains.

If there is one thing you choose from this list, make sure it is climbing a Mourne Mountain.

Fun things to do in Newcastle Co Down

A swimmer.

There are plenty of fun things to do in Newcastle Co Down. But these are my top three recommendations:

Get lost in the Peace Maze

Fancy a fun AND free thing to do in Newcastle Co Down? The Peace Maze is the largest permanent hedge maze in Europe.

The maze was created to celebrate Northern Ireland’s peace efforts and consists of 6,000 yew trees – planted by members of the public as a joint community project. The hedge length runs for over two miles, providing plenty of challenge for those who tackle it.

The Peace Maze is located in Castlewellan Forest, just a fifteen-minute drive from Newcastle. It opens from 10 am until sunset every day, with parking available for £5 per vehicle.

Go wild swimming in Tollymore Forest Park

You’ll need to muster all your delayed gratification for this one – even in Summer, the rivers in Tollymore Forest Park are freezing!

Apart from being a daring adrenaline rush though, there are hundreds of benefits to swimming in cold water. You’ll get a boost of your circulation, immune system, and even mental wellbeing. The charity  ChillUK  actually organises cold water swimming sessions to help people suffering from anxiety and depression.

Head to the Hermitage to go for a dip in Tollymore Forest Park. The medieval ruins are the perfect backdrop for a cold swim, and the river is only a short climb down from the path. Just remember to pack a towel and warm clothes for after!

Have a game of golf at the Royal Country Down Golf Club

Wanting to stay dry but still have fun? Tee off at the Royal County Down Golf Club.

The course is one of the oldest in Ireland and Northern Ireland. Founded in 1889, it has since hosted many a tournament, including The Senior Open Championship in 2000, 2001, and 2002.

Of course, you don’t need to be educated in golf history to appreciate the course location. You’ll be playing next to the sea and under the shadow of the Mourne Mountains.

Family things to do in Newcastle Co Down

Family ride.

Newcastle is a fun and friendly holiday destination for families. Most of the things to do in Newcastle are nature-linked, and families can cherish time in the outdoors together.

However, I’ve included some alternative options that specifically suit children and young families. Keep these in mind for a child-focused or rainy day.

Visit Kent Amusements

If Newcastle’s weather isn’t cooperating, don’t worry. Kent Amusements is the perfect indoor solution.

The amusement-centre-meets-theme park is right on the Newcastle promenade, providing that perfect cheesy seaside entertainment. You can wreak havoc on the dodgems, play on the penny falls machines, or try to win a cuddly toy on the fairground stands. Think of a Blackpool Pleasure Beach experience without going to Blackpool .

Kent Amusements has wheelchair and pram access and is suited to all families and ages.

Coco’s Children’s Adventure Playground

Does letting your kids loose sound appealing? Coco’s Children’s Adventure Playground is one of the best family things to do in Newcastle Co Down that actually gives the adults a break.

The soft play area has ball pits, tunnels, an under 5s area, and a scary freefall death slide for adventurous older children.

While your children play, you can sit with a tea or coffee. Or perhaps, order fish and chips for the family. I’ve included the 2022 rates in the table below:

Seaforde Gardens & Tropical Butterfly House

With butterflies, mazes, and plenty of outdoor space to run around, Seaforde Gardens & Tropical Butterfly House is a fantastic family attraction.

The Tropical Butterfly House is home to an enclosed jungle environment and thousands of resident butterflies. It is a great place for first encounters with wildlife for little ones or even for older children to learn more or practice photography.

Apart from butterflies, visitors also meet a python, glow-in-the-dark scorpions, parrots, terrapins, tarantulas, and snakes! Plus, there are a whole lot of tropical fish and creepy crawlies.

While the Peace Maze might be the largest, Seaforde Gardens has the oldest maze in Ireland – planted in 1975! So don’t miss out on a family maze challenge before you leave.

Things to do for couples in Newcastle Co Down

A couple walking on the beach.

Newcastle is fantastic for all groups, ages, and interests. However, it is particularly suited to couples, as the atmosphere is so peaceful and perfect for romance. I’ve included a few activities that can double up as date ideas if you are travelling as a couple.

Catch sunrise (or sunset) on Slieve Donard

Slieve Donard is easily Newcastle’s main attraction. And, if you want a romantic outdoor activity, hiking it for sunrise or sunset is a dreamy date idea.

Start the hike from Donard car park in Newcastle, heading through the woodland and crossing the bridge to turn right and pass a series of waterfalls. Once you pass the woodland level, you emerge at ‘the saddle’. From here, you turn left at the Mourne Wall to reach the Slieve Donard summit.

Remember to bring a headtorch when planning to ascend/descend in darkness. You need to keep your hands free as some sections of the trail are slippery and may be challenging.

Logistics and directions aside, a picnic is always a romantic gesture!

Walk the Alpacas at Cranfield

Okay, Cranfield Alpacas is a 34-minute drive from Newcastle. But who doesn’t want to go on a date to walk an alpaca?

Walking alpacas is one of the most popular things to do for couples in Newcastle Co Down. You can go for a 90-minute beach walk, a 60-minute field walk, or just opt for a meet and mingle experience. Book your experience from the options on the Cranfield Alpaca website  here .

Have a date night at Kent Amusements

In case you missed it, we listed Kent Amusements as one of the best family things to do in Newcastle Co Down. But, since it stays open to 11 pm every night, it also makes a perfect date night for couples visiting Newcastle.

Channel your inner child and thrash your significant other at dodgems. Or be a sweetheart and win them a cuddly toy. Either way, Kent Amusements is a fantastic late-night date activity – especially after a long day hiking.

Newcastle is easily one of the best places to visit in Northern Ireland . It is small, pretty, and peaceful, making for a relaxing Northern Irish escape. 

The seaside town is only an hour’s drive from Belfast, so a realistic addition to a standard Belfast itinerary. You can reach Newcastle from Belfast via the 237a or 520 bus, but you’ll be limited in what activities you can do when you arrive – so I’d recommend hiring a car if you need to. 

Have you been to Newcastle before? Drop any extra suggestions of things to do in the comments below.

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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Newcastle

Things to do in newcastle, explore popular experiences, tours in and around newcastle.

tourist attractions newcastle co down

  • Game of Thrones - Winterfell Trek from Dublin

tourist attractions newcastle co down

Experience Ireland on an Electric Bike

tourist attractions newcastle co down

St Patrick's Centre & Burial Site + Hillsborough Castle & Gardens

tourist attractions newcastle co down

Game of Thrones - Tollymore Forest Trek

tourist attractions newcastle co down

  • Game of Thrones - Winterfell Trek from Belfast

tourist attractions newcastle co down

Giant’s Causeway Day Trip from Belfast

tourist attractions newcastle co down

Private Giants Causeway & Coastal Tour from Belfast in Luxury Mercedes

tourist attractions newcastle co down

Giants Causeway, Rope Bridge, Carrickfergus Castle and Dark Hedges Tour

tourist attractions newcastle co down

Belfast’s political war and peace private taxi tour

tourist attractions newcastle co down

Game of Thrones and Giant's Causeway Full-Day Tour from Belfast

Cultural & theme tours.

tourist attractions newcastle co down

Top Attractions in Newcastle

tourist attractions newcastle co down

Tours & Sightseeing

tourist attractions newcastle co down

What travellers are saying

Cinebobs

  • Tollymore Forest Park
  • Murlough National Nature Reserve
  • Silent Valley and Ben Crom Reservoirs
  • Slieve Donard
  • The Granite Trail
  • Tollymore National Outdoor Centre
  • Game of Thrones County Down 8 hour tour
  • Funny Farm Adventures

Newcastle Visitor Information Centre

tourist attractions newcastle co down

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

tourist attractions newcastle co down

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Shauna McGuigan

NEWCASTLE VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

  • Sun - Sun 14:00 - 17:00
  • Mon - Fri 09:30 - 17:00
  • Sat - Sat 10:00 - 17:00
  • (0.20 km) B2 Waterfoot Seafront apt with unrestricted sea views -fab.. and free wi-fi too!
  • (0.32 km) Avoca Hotel
  • (0.29 km) Conlyn House
  • (0.44 km) Amble In Accommodation
  • (0.30 km) Coolgreeney House
  • (0.04 km) Pizza Umami
  • (0.05 km) Balti House
  • (0.05 km) Sucos Shake 'n' Juice
  • (0.05 km) Nugelato
  • (0.05 km) Lick Gelato

tourist attractions newcastle co down

  • All Upcoming Events
  • Derry/Londonderry
  • Londonderry
  • Competitions

Newcastle Beach

Newcastle Beach is a popular tourist destination located on the South Down coast. Newcastle Beach comprises of sand, pebbles and larger stones and is approximately 2.5 km in length. The major part of Newcastle Beach is backed by a promenade and the seaside town of Newcastle, which has lots of shops, amusements and other attractions. The beach has a very gentle slope with the Mountains of Mourne in the background. Life Saving equipment on Newcastle Beach and signage on promenade. Facilities: Car Parking, Child Friendly Areas, Dogs Allowed, Lifeguard Service, Shop, Toilets, Tourist Information/Visitor Centre. Disabled car parking and disabled access is available via ramps from the promenade. Water quality is Good. The entire area is within the Mournes and Slieve Croob Area of Outstanding Beauty and the Murlough Special Area for Conservation.

Getting to the start by car

Newcastle Beach is located at the foot of the Mourne Mountains in Newcastle town adjacent to the promenade. The town of Newcastle is located on the A2 Coastal Road Clough to Newry.

Opening times

Open all year

tourist attractions newcastle co down

Newcastle Beach Newcastle Co Down BT33 0AA

Attractions in Co Down

© Copyright What's On NI 2024. All Rights Reserved..

Newcastle Visitor Information Centre

tourist attractions newcastle co down

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

tourist attractions newcastle co down

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Shauna McGuigan

NEWCASTLE VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

  • Sun - Sun 14:00 - 17:00
  • Mon - Fri 09:30 - 17:00
  • Sat - Sat 10:00 - 17:00
  • (0.12 mi) B2 Waterfoot Seafront apt with unrestricted sea views -fab.. and free wi-fi too!
  • (0.20 mi) Avoca Hotel
  • (0.18 mi) Conlyn House
  • (0.28 mi) Amble In Accommodation
  • (0.18 mi) Coolgreeney House
  • (0.03 mi) Pizza Umami
  • (0.03 mi) Balti House
  • (0.03 mi) Sucos Shake 'n' Juice
  • (0.03 mi) Nugelato
  • (0.03 mi) Lick Gelato

IMAGES

  1. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Newcastle

    tourist attractions newcastle co down

  2. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Newcastle

    tourist attractions newcastle co down

  3. Newcastle County Down: A 2022 Visitors Guide

    tourist attractions newcastle co down

  4. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in County Down

    tourist attractions newcastle co down

  5. Newcastle, County Down

    tourist attractions newcastle co down

  6. The 22 best things to do in Newcastle that you need to know, whatever

    tourist attractions newcastle co down

COMMENTS

  1. 11 Best Things to do in Newcastle Co Down (2024)

    1. Kick-start your visit with coffee and ocean views. Photos via Shutterstock. One of our favourite things to do in Newcastle in Co Down is to grab a coffee and head for a saunter along the sand. Three good options are Shimna Cafe, Maud's and Niki's Kitchen. When you've your cup in hand, head across the the glorious Newcastle Beach.

  2. Newcastle County Down: A 2024 Visitors Guide

    The town of Newcastle in County Down has a population of around 7,700 which swells to accommodate an influx of summer visitors. It was named after the "new castle", a MacGinnis stronghold built back in 1588, probably on the site of an earlier fortification. It stood at the mouth of the Shimna River and was demolished in 1830.

  3. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Newcastle

    9. Royal County Down Golf Club. 187. Golf Courses. One of the oldest golf clubs in Ireland with traditions dating back 100 years, this 18-hole Championship Course is rated among the best in the world. See full details.

  4. 26 Best Things to do in County Down (2024 Guide)

    A visit to Tollymore is one of our favourite things to do in County Down for good reason. 2. Slieve Donard. Photos via Shutterstock. Slieve Donard (850m/2789ft) is the highest peak in Northern Ireland and it's one of the more popular Mourne Mountain hikes.

  5. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in County Down

    2. Mount Stewart. 1,063. Historic Sites. Mount Stewart is one of the most inspiring and unusual gardens in the National Trust's ownership. The garden reflects a rich tapestry of design and great planting artistry that was the hallmark of Edith, Lady Londonderry. The mild climate of Strangford Lough allows astonishing levels of planting ...

  6. THE 10 BEST Tourist Spots in Newcastle 2023: Things to Do & Places to

    Newcastle Tourism Newcastle Hotels Newcastle Bed and Breakfast Flights to Newcastle Newcastle Restaurants Things to Do in Newcastle Newcastle Travel Forum Newcastle Photos Newcastle Map. ... Game of Thrones County Down 8 hour tour; ... Newcastle Attractions Information. Attractions: 42: Attraction Reviews: 3,068: Attraction Photos: 2,179: Local ...

  7. Newcastle, Northern Ireland 2024: What to Know Before You Go

    Newcastle Tourism: Tripadvisor has 21,957 reviews of Newcastle Hotels, Attractions, and Restaurants making it your best Newcastle resource.

  8. County Down

    County Down. Take a small step south from Belfast, and you'll find yourself in one of the most popular destinations in Northern Ireland - County Down. Stretching from the shores of Belfast Lough, out around Strangford Lough, and down into the magnificent Mourne Mountains. You'll find yourself at home beside castles, beaches, forest parks ...

  9. 10 BEST things to do in Co. Down, N. Ireland (2024)

    Here are the ten best things to do in County Down. Ireland Before You Die's tips for visiting County Down: 10. Rostrevor and Kilbroney Park ­- for the real-life Narnia. 9. Scrabo Tower - for stunning views of north Down. 8. Castlewellan Forest Park - for a fun family day out. 7.

  10. The Best of Newcastle, County Down

    Tollymore Forest Park. Another popular attractions found in Newcastle, County Down is this stunning forest park located at the foot of the Mourne Mountains. Tollymore Forest Park covers around 630 arches of dreamy walks, and beautiful views surrounding you. It was the first ever state park created in Northern Ireland back in 1955.

  11. Things To Do On A Visit To Newcastle County Down

    When you are visiting Northern Ireland especially in the spring or summer one place that I would highly recommend is a visit to Newcastle County Down. Whether you are a cycling enthusiast or just looking for something interesting to do with the family. There is an abundance of things to do in Newcastle County Down.

  12. Things to do in Newcastle Co Down: 12 things for your itinerary

    Walking alpacas is one of the most popular things to do for couples in Newcastle Co Down. You can go for a 90-minute beach walk, a 60-minute field walk, or just opt for a meet and mingle experience. Book your experience from the options on the Cranfield Alpaca website here.

  13. Best Things To Do & Days Out In Newcastle, County Down

    Here at Day Out With The Kids we've found 134 fun things to do in Newcastle for you and the family to discover. What's more, the weather shouldn't be a problem - 82 of the attractions are indoors. Finding the right Newcastle day out for your family is easy - simply explore the links below or use the filters at the top of the page to plan ...

  14. Newcastle Visitor Information Centre

    Opening Times. * Normal opening hours - Monday to Saturday: 09:30 - 17:00. For enquiries please contact our Visitor Servicing Team on 0330 137 4046. View Map and What's Nearby. Newcastle Visitor Information Centre stock a wide selection of traditional and contemporary crafts, designer knitwear, jewellery, pottery,….

  15. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Newcastle (Updated 2024)

    Top Things to Do in Newcastle, County Down: See Tripadvisor's 21,877 traveller reviews and photos of Newcastle tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in February. ... Newcastle Attractions Information. Attractions: 42: Attraction Reviews: 3,071: Attraction Photos: 2,203: Local Time:

  16. Newcastle, County Down

    Newcastle (Irish: An Caisleán Nua) is a small seaside resort town in County Down, Northern Ireland, which had a population of 8,298 at the 2021 Census. It lies by the Irish Sea at the foot of Slieve Donard, the highest of the Mourne Mountains.Newcastle is known for its sandy beach, forests (Donard Forest and Tollymore Forest Park), and mountains.The town lies within the Newry, Mourne and Down ...

  17. Newcastle Visitor Information Centre

    Newcastle Visitor Information Centre, Newcastle: See 101 reviews, articles, and 13 photos of Newcastle Visitor Information Centre, ranked No.5 on Tripadvisor among 19 attractions in Newcastle.

  18. Tourist Attractions in Co Down, NI

    Attractions in Co Down. Search by keyword: Murlough Beach 5 miles of golden sand form a perfect backdrop for swimming, sunbathing and recreation. ... Newcastle Beach Sand & pebble beach located on the south down coast. more... The Lodge Studio Working studio and gallery displaying crafts, oils, watercolour, pastels and fine art prints. ...

  19. Newcastle Beach

    Newcastle Beach is a popular tourist destination located on the South Down coast. Newcastle Beach comprises of sand, pebbles and larger stones and is approximately 2.5 km in length. The major part of Newcastle Beach is backed by a promenade and the seaside town of Newcastle, which has lots of shops, amusements and other attractions.

  20. Newcastle Visitor Information Centre

    The Newcastle Visitor Information Centre is located on Central Promenade, Newcastle, County Down. When is the Newcastle Visitor Information Centre open? The Newcastle Visitor Informatation Centre is open all year Monday - Saturday 9:30 to 17:00. What services does the Newcastle Visitor Information Centre provide?

  21. Newcastle Visitor Information Centre

    Newcastle Visitor Information Centre stock a wide range of traditional and contemporary crafts, including many local producers. Designer knitwear, jewellery, pottery, woodcarvings, hand painted silks and Game of Thrones merchandise. Also stock a wide range of souvenirs, books and maps. Suggest edits to improve what we show. Improve this listing.

  22. Best Tourist Attractions In Newcastle, County Down

    Check out the 11 best tourist attractions in Newcastle, County Down in 2024 - plus 0 top sightseeing days out near you right now. Time to make some memories! ... There are . 11 Newcastle tourist attractions to pick from. Find the perfect places to go with your kids and get out on your next adventure!

  23. The Orchard

    About. Experience the epitome of luxury, serenity, and outdoor adventure at our exclusive holiday accommodation in Newcastle, County Down. Rated 5-star by Tourism Northern Ireland, nestled amidst the pristine Royal County Down Golf Course, the Irish Sea, and the awe-inspiring Mourne Mountains, our property offers an unparalleled blend of ...