County Down in Northern Ireland is a destination where spectacular scenery, compelling history and spellbinding stories collide. From the dramatic landscapes of the Mourne Mountains and Strangford Lough to the Victorian seaside charm of Bangor, there’s so much to enjoy here, you’ll want to take your time. Follow in the footsteps of St Patrick, explore a grand estate with a world-famous garden, or wander through enchanted woodlands that feel like a fairytale. For Game of Thrones® fans, the county offers the chance to immerse yourself in the real-world Westeros with filming locations scattered among mountains, forests and historic landmarks. County Down is a land of legacy, legend and incredible beauty – what are you waiting for? Plan your journey today.
The Mourne Wall, County Dublin
A dramatic range of grand, granite peaks, the Mourne Mountains are the highest mountain range in Northern Ireland and part of the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark. These mountains inspired CS Lewis to create the mythical land of Narnia. As you follow the walking trails, you’ll understand why. From up here, County Down is spread out at your feet.
Deep in the heart of the Mournes lies the Silent Valley where two reservoirs form part of an extraordinary feat of engineering built to supply Belfast with water. Follow the 5km trail between the two and look out for the historic Mourne Wall that snakes over the Mournes’ peaks. Along the way, take in the majestic views in this remote part of the island.
Further north, Strangford Lough is one of Europe’s most biodiverse marine environments and home to over 2,000 species. Explore sites like Nendrum Monastic Site and Scrabo Tower to discover the history of Strangford. Or take to the water on a kayaking experience with Strangford Lough Activity Centre.
Game of Thrones® territoryCounty Down had a starring role in the hit TV show Game of Thrones®. Explore key filming locations like Tollymore Forest Park, Inch Abbey and Castle Ward. Then discover the secrets behind the production at the Game of Thrones Studio Tour.
Mount Stewart House and Gardens, County Down
Tourism Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland collaboration
There’s more to Castle Ward than Game of Thrones®. Take a tour of the 18th-century mansion, which is famous for its mix of architectural styles: classic Palladian symmetry on one side and whimsical Gothic excess on the other.
Mount Stewart is a great estate on the shores of Strangford Lough, known for its world-class gardens. Created by Edith, Lady Londonderry, in the early 20th century, its individual gardens are filled with rare and beautiful plants from all over the world.
Find more gardens to admire at the royal residence of Hillsborough Castle and the 400-acre Montalto Estate. While Rowallane Gardens, with their charming mix of formal and informal planting, are one of County Down’s hidden gems.
St Patrick influence
County Down also has strong links with St Patrick and you can follow in the footsteps of the saint at legendary locations such as Saul Church (just outside Downpatrick), where Patrick began his mission, and Down Cathedral, his final resting place. Experience the full story of St Patrick at the interpretive Saint Patrick Centre in Downpatrick.
Explore St Patrick’s County in three days
Outdoor adventuresFinally, given the beauty on their doorstep, it’s no wonder Belfast locals tend to see County Down as their playground. The county is known for its thrilling mountain bike trails at Rostrevor and Castlewellan, while walking and watersports in the dramatic landscapes are ever-popular.
For golfers, a favourite destination is the Royal County Down Golf Club, located in the stunningly beautiful Murlough Nature Reserve. It’s one of the oldest golf clubs on the island of Ireland and has repeatedly topped Golf Digest’s ranking of the World’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses.
Enjoy a three-day trip idea around Northern Ireland’s championship golf courses
Mussenden Temple, County Londonderry
On County Down’s doorstep, you’ll find County Armagh, which offers a completely different landscape and identity. You can follow St Patrick’s story through the county, explore the historic city of Armagh, with its rich ecclesiastical history; or embark on a walking adventure through the Ring of Gullion.
A great option to pair with County Down is the Causeway Coastal Route, which is a short distance from Down and easily accessible. Here, you can embark on a fabulous coastal adventure that takes in the show-stopping sights of the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and Mussenden Temple.
Try a six-day adventure on the Causeway Coast
For something completely different, head south into Counties Louth and Meath, and explore Carlingford, the Cooley Peninsula and the Boyne Valley. It’s a rewarding combination of majestic scenery, myth and ancient history.
From the natural beauty of County Down, you’ll be wowed with the great things to see and do in Northern Ireland and beyond. Start planning today.
