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Explore Tollymore Forest Park
Tollymore Forest Park, County Down
As far as forest parks go on the island of Ireland, Tollymore is hard to beat. First off, this 630-hectare site is gorgeously located at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, Northern Ireland’s highest mountain range. But it’s also just a five-minute drive from the scenic seaside town of Newcastle. Add to that a tonne of outdoor activities from camping and hiking to horse riding, then top it off with some famous Game of Thrones® shooting locations, and you start to see the attraction. Are you up for exploring a County Down gem?
Tollymore Forest Park, County Down
L-R: Horn Bridge; walking trail; garden folly; Shimna River trail
Forest fun
Activities abound in Tollymore Forest Park. Walkers and hikers can enjoy a range of marked trails which take in lush woodland, mountain views and the Shimna River. Keep your eyes peeled for otters and kingfishers! Fancy staying a bit longer to uncover more of the park? There’s a campsite that caters for tents and a range of camper vans and motorhomes, which can be booked online in advance.
Tollymore Forest Park, County Down
The real-world Westeros
Northern Ireland is Game of Thrones® territory! Iconic filming locations, award-winning tours and fantastical experiences await...
Forest features
Tollymore Forest Park is also much loved for its eclectic mix of monuments and follies. The Barbican Gate is a grand entrance lined with huge Himalayan cedars. The Hermitage is a quirky stone structure along the river path and several charming stone bridges also cross over the babbling brook that runs through the park. These landmarks were built by various owners of the estate down through the centuries. No wonder Game of Thrones® chose Tollymore for several key locations in the series such as the Haunted Forest. See them all on a guided Tollymore Forest Trek.
Barbican Gate, Tollymore Forest Park, County Down
County Down highlights
Don't miss these things to see and do
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.
Newcastle
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Downpatrick & County Down Railway
Travel back to the past with real vintage steam trains through St. Patrick's Country, over the River Quoile and under the graceful Down Cathedral to peaceful ruins of Inch Abbey.
Downpatrick
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Down County Museum
Down County Museum is located in the old county Gaol of Down. It houses fascinating exhibitions on the history of Down as well as restored cells with life-size figures of prisoners and their gaolers.
Downpatrick
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Strangford Lough Lookout
The Lookout is a wildlife interpretative centre, showcasing the wildlife around the Strangford Lough area. Telescopes and remotely controlled camers allow close up views of basking seals and breeding seabird colonies.
Newtownards
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Bangor Seafront
Picturesque promenade, leading from town centre to coastal path, past the prestigious marina. Sites include historic McKee Clock, Bregenz House the Headquarters of HM Coastguard, and Pickie Funpark.
Bangor
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Castle Ward
Discover a place of contrasts and creativity at Castle Ward, an eccentric 18th century mansion and estate looking out over the tranquil waters of Strangford Lough in County Down where visitors can explore cultivated gardens, sheltered woodland and the shoreline.
Strangford
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Slieve Donard Resort and Spa
A beloved destination for families, golfers, and holiday travellers, Slieve Donard is a local landmark that’s equal parts homey and breath-taking. The resort sits at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, on the edge of Royal County Down Golf Club, ranked no. 1 in the world by Golf Digest.
Newcastle
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Killowen Distillery Tour & Tasting
Located in the heart of the Mourne Mountains, Killowen Distillery has a ‘Kult’ following and an epic history, due in no small part to its great whiskeys and gins.
Rostrevor
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Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
Come and explore Northern Ireland's royal residence, where worlds and minds meet. Relax in 100 acres of picturesque gardens, explore the State Rooms still used today and indulge in delicious food and drink in our café.
Royal Hillsborough
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Rostrevor - Cloughmore Stone
Walks though a woodland with steep climbs and hills in places
Down
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Mourne Mountains Cycle Route
Cycing in the Mourne Mountains - start at the northern side of the resort of Newcastle and cycle along the A50 towards the market town of Castlewellan. Before Castlewellan, turn left onto Tollymore Road and then right onto Middle Tollymore Road.
Newcastle
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