Things to do
Forest parks and beaches, castles and harbours, boat trips and long lazy lunches. Here's how to fill a day out from High Mourne House, whatever the weather's doing.
Whether you've got restless kids, a dog that needs a proper run, or just a free afternoon and no fixed plan, you'll find options from quick outings close to the house to full days out further afield.
Nothing matches both of those choices. Try all types to see everything that suits.
Show all types →Silent Valley Mountain Park
Reservoir, dam, planted grounds and easy loop walks suit almost everybody. It works with children, with a dog on the lower paths and in indifferent weather.
Find out more →The coast road
The A2 north to Newcastle or south to Kilkeel is a proper short outing, with sea views and the mountains dropping straight down on the inland side.
Find out more →Annalong Harbour and Cornmill
The harbour and cornmill give you a simple first taste of the coast, especially if you have only just arrived.
Find out more →Kilkeel Harbour
A working fishing port with boats, the fish market end of things and a proper sense of a place that works for a living rather than for tourists.
Find out more →Spelga Dam and the Deer’s Meadow
Big open moorland, the dam and the well-known optical illusion hill make this more a scenic drive with a short stop than a walk.
Find out more →Tollymore Forest Park
Woodland trails along the Shimna river, stone bridges and the arboretum give you routes from a short walk to a few hours.
Find out more →Castlewellan Forest Park
The lake circuit is flat and easy, and the Peace Maze is a reliable win with children.
Find out more →Murlough National Nature Reserve
Dune heath, boardwalks and a long beach with the Mournes behind it make this excellent for a slow half day.
Find out more →Bloody Bridge
A short river path, a granite gorge and the coast together make this one of the best quick outings when you want a real sense of the Mournes.
Find out more →Newcastle promenade
Beach, the front, ice cream and the mountains meeting the sea make this the easiest wet-weather-adjacent option.
Find out more →Cranfield and Greencastle
A sandy beach facing Carlingford Lough and the old castle at Greencastle make this a good warm-day outing.
Find out more →Make a day of it, then soak it off.
Check your dates and make High Mourne House your base for the Mournes.