Blog (April 2025) - Visit Mourne Mountains

This May we are so lucky to have two bank holidays to take some time off to be with our friends and family, so let us show you how to enjoy every moment, even on a budget!

The Mourne Mountains, Ring of Gullion and Strangford Lough areas are home to expansive woodlands and dedicated parks. Whether you want to escape to the forest, spend a fun family day out in one of our many adventure play parks, or enjoy an event, you’ll be well catered for in Counties Down and Armagh. 

May is National Walking Month 2025, and there’s no better place to celebrate than right here in Mourne Gullion Strangford. This month-long campaign encourages people of all ages and backgrounds to get outside and enjoy the simple pleasure of walking – something we’re spoiled for in this area of outstanding beauty.

Spring in the Mourne, Gullion and Strangford area is something out of a fairytale—and few sights capture that magic quite like a woodland carpeted in bluebells.

The Cuan Restaurant & Hotel has been included in The Irish Independent’s FAB 50 – Ireland’s Best Places to Stay 2025

There’s nothing quite like a springtime ramble through Castlewellan Forest Park, especially when you’ve got a curious border collie like Finn leading the way, nose to the ground and tail in the air. We set out on a bright morning, keen to stretch our legs and take in some of the fresh Mourne Mountain air – and Castlewellan didn’t disappoint.

Exciting Easter events happening in the stunnng  Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion. Don't miss out on all the fun activities and beautiful scenery this holiday season. Come and join us for a memorable Easter.

As part of the Castlewellan Historic Demesne project, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, signage across Castlewellan Forest Park is being updated. A key focus is replacing the panoramic panel at the Peace Maze with a fresh, high-quality image of the Mourne Mountains.

We’re inviting photographers to submit high-resolution images (minimum of 300 dpi) from this viewpoint by Wednesday 30 April 2025. The selected photo will be credited and featured at the heart of the Peace Maze.

If you’re looking for a refreshing walk that offers coastal views, open stretches for off-lead zoomies, and a bit of woodland magic, look no further than the trail from Keel Point around Murlough Bay. We recently took Finn, our ever-energetic Border Collie, on this route—and he absolutely loved it.

If you’re planning a memorable getaway with family or friends, Northern Ireland’s Mourne Mountains, Ring of Gullion, and Lecale area offers an unforgettable experience. These picturesque regions are perfect for large families or groups who want to combine adventure, relaxation, and stunning landscapes. Whether you enjoy hiking, exploring, or simply unwinding in scenic surroundings, these areas provide a variety of activities and accommodations that cater to all ages and interests.

Tucked within the serene beauty of Castlewellan Forest Park, a quiet yet important project is unfolding under the evening skies. Each week, in the heart of the Annesley Walled Gardens, Education and Biodiversity Officer Ben Ryan sets up a moth trap—continuing the invaluable work begun by his predecessor, Amy Dixon. This ongoing survey is more than just a scientific endeavour; it’s a window into the hidden world of nocturnal pollinators and an essential part of monitoring biodiversity in the park.

As the days get longer and the weather warms up, there’s no better time to plan a visit to the beautiful Mourne Gullion Strangford Region. With its sweeping landscapes, charming villages, and endless outdoor activities, it offers something for every nature lover, adventurer, and those simply looking to relax in stunning surroundings. Spring in the Mourne Gullion Strangford Region is magical, and here’s why it should be at the top of your travel list this season.  

The Downpatrick & County Down Railway (DCDR) is celebrating yet more awards success.