48 hours in Newry, Mourne and Down
There are so many things to see and do in Newry, Mourne and Down that it can seem like you need weeks to fully explore the area. But it is possible to enjoy your stay in just 48 hours. Here is our sample itinerary to immerse yourself in two of Northern Ireland’s most beautiful counties
Day one Morning
Breathe in the fresh mountain air the first thing in the morning and experience the majestic Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion. Perfect for the thrill seeker, walker, photographer, angler, golfer, shopper, cyclist and leisurely driver, there is so much waiting to be discovered. If you have a thirst for adventure and want to experience what the area has to offer, join the ‘Mourne Trails, Ales and Catch Tour’. This is a fully guided cycling tour sampling the trails of the Mourne Mountains, alongside a select batch of the Mourne Mountains Brewery’s iconic ales. If you haven’t cycled in the area before, the Cycle Routes Guide is available for download at visitmournemountains.co.uk or you can pick it up in a local Visitor Information Centre.
Take your time along the Mourne Coastal Route with a stop off in Kilkeel, visit The Mourne Seafood Cookery School, an award winning state of the art cookery school with panoramic views of Kilkeel Harbour. Here you will find the freshest fish and seafood. For those seafood lovers this is an ideal way to learn more about what to look for when buying, handling and cooking seafood.
The Ring of Gullion is a spectacular sight to behold, demonstrated by Slieve Gullion, a huge whale shaped mountain circled by a ring of hills. To make the most of your time in the area, a trip out walking is a must! You will be met by Ann Ward, a local Meditation Coach and Shinrin-Yoku (forest-bathing) practitioner, who has deep connections with Slieve Gullion Mountain. Here you will be guided on this sensory journey and share the holistic benefits of mindfulness and forest bathing. Rest in the forest during mindful eating and drinking practice with foraged fruits … mulled spiced elderberry, accompanied by sloe & apple jelly and cinnamon & plum jam with homemade scones and Irish butter.
If you are keen for a magical journey instead of an active one, visit Rostrevor and Kilbroney Forest Park at the foot of the Mourne Mountains. Legendary author of ‘The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’, CS Lewis once said of Rostrevor, “That part of Rostrevor which overlooks Carlingford Lough is my idea of Narnia.” From the charming Narnia Trail and pony and trap rides to its mountain biking trails, Kilbroney Park offers a host of attractions including camping facilities, a children’s playpark, restaurant and interesting walking trails. On the slopes of Rostrevor Forest, walk through a National Nature Reserve and see ancient oaks en route to the huge Cloughmore Stone, said to be thrown by the giant Fionn Mac Cumhaill and the inspiration for Aslan’s table.
Afternoon and evening
After an adventurous morning, travel to a whole new land in the afternoon and enjoy a tour of Castle Ward, home of Game of Thrones® Winterfell. The 18th century mansion overlooks Strangford Lough. There is much to explore and enjoy here including actual filming locations for the show, such as the tower where Bran fell, Robb’s Camp on the Northern Armies’ march to confront the Lannisters, and The Twins – Walder Frey’s stronghold and the site of the savage Red Wedding. There are even activities at the Castle for all the family such as archery!
Relax in the evening and enjoy local food and company in one of the many restaurants in the area, such as the Anchor Bar in Newcastle or Percy French Bar & Restaurant. Treat yourself at Slieve Donard Resort & Spa which has a luxury 20 metre swimming pool, vitality pool and relaxation suites. Treat yourself before you have even more experiences the next day.
Day two Morning
Walk in the footsteps of Ireland’s patron Saint, Saint Patrick in Downpatrick, one of Ireland’s oldest towns. The official guidebook ‘Historic Walking Tour of Downpatrick’ will guide you through the town, where you can see many interesting sites - from churches to gaols, and almshouses to Hunt Clubrooms or take the steam train to Inch Abbey. Be sure to call into the Visitor Information Centre located in The Saint Patrick Centre.
Or, if you are more the water adventurer, try the Infinity Swim Safari in July, August or September. Swim through the waters of Camlough Lake, nestled between Slieve Gullion and Camlough Mountain and learn about their unique history and ecology from local people.
Afternoon and evening
If you are in the mood for a foodie experience, the exceptional ‘Oysters & Chocolate Food Tour’ features far more than just delicious shellfish and sweets. Be whisked into the agricultural heartland of Down where you’ll enjoy bread-making, oyster-schucking (removing the oyster meat from its shell with a knife) and chocolate-drinking. You’ll also see some of the most beautiful landscapes in Down, as you pass from the drumlins to the coast under the gaze of the towering Mourne Mountains.
If you are a history and outlaw lover, try the ‘Smugglers & Seaweed Experience’. Discover the lives of the intrepid outlaws in the Mourne Mountains taking in the sea, the mountains, and towns where they plied their illicit trade.
This area has a growing reputation for great food, with renowned chefs and excellent food and drink produce. So why not complete your trip by sampling the many culinary delights on offer throughout Newry, Mourne and Down. There is no better end to any journey!
Whatever your idea of heaven, find here.