Blog (History) - Visit Mourne Mountains

The historic paddle steamer Waverley is set to return to Warrenpoint this May, following the success of the inaugural public cruise sailing from Warrenpoint last year.

This year, due to demand there will be two sailings from Warrenpoint. 

With Spring approaching in the beautiful regions of Mourne, Gullion and Strangford you can expect gardens, parks and mountains bursting with colourful flowers. April is a lovely time of year to visit our area.

Hopefully, with some warm spring sunshine on the way, you can enjoy a pleasant walk on the beaches or appreciate an outside view while sipping on a coffee or enjoying a pint out in one of the many beer gardens.

Plan your perfect day out with the kids this mid-term break in the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion region, we have lots to do to make for a memorable few days off school!

Are you planning some day trips for this half term? Great, we have you sorted!  Plan your visit to the Mourne Mountains and the Ring of Gullion. We are home to striking landscapes, forest parks with plenty of walking trails, and lots of fun activities to keep you entertained. Here are some of the things you can get up to during your visit.  

Think it is time to book a much-needed short break? Enjoy a staycation in the Ring of Gullion, it may be the perfect destination for your romantic getaway. The Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion is packed with places just perfect for quality time together. 

Isn’t it great to get home after a hard day’s work and switch on the telly to lose yourself in a great series or movie?  Well, how about a series or movie which is based in the beautiful area of Mourne, Gullion and Strangford?  It is a well-known fact that the series Game of Thrones® has used many locations in our area such as Tollymore Forest Park, Castle Ward and Inch Abbey, however, there are a few more places to be added to the list so kick your shoes off and relax while we flick through some of our programmes that have been based in and around our wonderful area of outstanding beauty. 

The Mourne Mountains, Ring of Gullion and Strangford areas are world famous for their outstanding scenery, history and walks. One of the best ways to experience the magic and majesty is with one of our qualified Tour Guides.

Special subjects include: Mourne Mountains, Saint Patrick's Country, Ring of Gullion, Strangford Lough, Local History, Granite Industry, Food & Drink.

The Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion is home to a variety of amazing heritage trails which are well worth exploring.  The trails will take you to historical monuments and give you a chance to explore the rich and beautiful local landscape. Take time and enjoy the locations and beautiful scenery in our UNESCO Global Geopark.

The Mourne Mountains, Ring of Gullion and Strangford Lough have just gained official Geopark accredition, so if you're looking for a unique and fascinating outdoor experience in Northern Ireland, look no further than the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark. This geopark is a designated UNESCO site that showcases the geological wonders of the region, as well as its rich history and culture.

It's that time of the year when it’s good to get out, get some fresh air around you and explore the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion and all its natural beauty. Whether you want to visit a forest park, hike a mountain or do an activity, our region is abundant in outdoor happenings.  There is plenty to see and do and lots for you to participate in to ensure a memorable experience.

Saturday 29 April – Saturday 6 May

The first of May marks the beginning of the ancient festival of Bealtaine,  Féile na Bealtaine, and is the halfway point between the spring equinox and summer solstice.  Bealtaine, translating as month of May, is still used in the Irish language today and is said to derive from Old Irish meaning, bright fire.  

The award winning, five star Montalto Estate, in rural Co. Down, is getting ready to unveil a  significant new tourism experience called The Lost Garden Trail. Made possible through major private investment, with additional support from Tourism NI’s Experience Development Programme,  The Lost Garden Trail will open to the public on 31^st March, 2023.https://www.visitmournemountains.co.uk/things-to-do/montalto-estate-p728301