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.
From peaceful lough side paths and forest trails to rugged mountain hikes and coastal rambles, the area offers walking routes for every pace and interest. It’s the perfect time to stretch your legs, improve your wellbeing, and reconnect with nature – whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out.
No car? No problem! Exploring the stunning landscapes of the Mourne Mountains, Ring of Gullion and Strangford Lough is easier than you think – even without a set of keys. With reliable local buses, electric bikes for hire and even a ferry across Strangford and Carlingford Loughs, you can reach some of the Region’s most breathtaking walking trails without needing to drive.
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Whether you're wandering historic streets, taking in the sea air along the coast, or setting off on a forest walk, public transport makes it simple to connect with nature and explore at your own pace. It’s a stress-free, sustainable way to see more – and soak up every step of this beautiful region.
Downpatrick
The Quoile Downpatrick, easily accessible from bus routes to Downpatrick, is tucked away just outside the historic town of Downpatrick the walk takes you along the Quoile river. This peaceful walk offers a wide variety of plants and wildlife making it a peaceful escape all year round. The river is also home to swans, ducks and a range of other bird species, all part of the Quoile’s thriving eco system. National walking month is the perfect time to discover the beauty of this riverside walk.
Wander through the historic town of Downpatrick and discover iconic landmarks such as Inch Abbey, Struell Wells, Saint Patrick’s Grave, Down Cathedral, and the Mound of Down—all within walking distance of the town.
If you are looking for a more advanced walk, Downpatrick offers the Saint Patrick’s Way. This 27km (17-mile) Camino-style pilgrimage traces the footsteps of Ireland’s patron saint, offering a blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty
Strangford
Strangford has some great walks to offer for national Walking month and is accessible via bus routes direct from Downpatrick.
Castle Ward is a unique 18th century estate that offers scenic walks through woodlands, gardens and along the shoreline. Castle Ward offers something for every kind of walker whether it is costal views, woodland trails or exploring the Game of Thrones® filming locations, this is the perfect car free day out.
Audley’s Castle trail which has beautiful panoramic views of Strangford lough, will lead you though grassy terrain tracks with a few short inclines. This short but rewarding walk takes you through the estate’s open fields and down toward the medieval Audley’s Castle, it is a great photo opportunity and a must visit for Game of Thrones® fans, this was the backdrop for Robb Stark’s camp.
Farm Trail For those looking to stretch their legs a little further, the circular route Farm Trail at Castle Ward takes you past working farmland, grazing livestock, and sweeping fields, all while offering iconic views of Castle Ward’s unique dual-style mansion. It also winds through filming locations from Game of Thrones®, adding a cinematic touch to your walk.
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Delamont
Delamont county park offers a range of different walks for all levels, and is easily accessible via local bus routes. Choose from several walks ranging from 1km in distance to 7km. With stunning views over Strangford lough and Strangford stone – Irelands tallest megalith. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or something more testing, there’s something perfect for you.
Newry
This National Walking Month, step into the heart of Newry’s rich heritage with The Story of Newry Walking Tour. Led by passionate local guide Sinead Rice McAleavey, this hour-long guided tour invites you to explore the vibrant past and hidden gems of one of Northern Ireland’s most historic towns. For an extra treat, round off your walk with optional afternoon tea at the Canal Court Hotel.
Hop off the bus and explore the Newry Canal Towpath, a lovely stretch that takes you through scenic landscapes and peaceful waterside views. Or, take a stroll through Bessbrook Mill and the surrounding countryside, a haven for history and nature lovers alike.
Slieve Gullion
This walk located in the Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers walkers a mix of mountain paths, forest paths and country trails. With local transport and nearby bike hire (including electric bikes for less effort and more fun!) it has never been easier to get around this national walking month.
This park also offers an accessible sensory trail along Fionn’s Giant Adventure which is designed to provide an inclusive experience for children and adults with complex sensory needs, aiming to ensure that every one can enjoy the magic and beauty of the Slieve Gullion forest.
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Kilbroney
Explore forest walks in Rostrevor Forest, river crossings, the popular Fallows Trail, Red Bog Lake, all rich with local wildlife like red squirrels and deer. There are plenty of paths to follow in Kilbroney Park, including the Narnia Trail and the Tree Trail. From the Cloughmore Car Park there are three waymarked trails varying in length. Following the impact of Storm Eowyn, some remote walking trails and cross country mountain bike trails remain closed, please navigate with care this national walking month.
Newcastle Promenade Walk
For a leisurely coastal stroll that combines sea air with scenic charm, the Newcastle Promenade is the perfect choice, accessible via good public transport bus routes. This flat, paved walkway runs along the edge of Dundrum Bay, offering uninterrupted views of the Irish Sea on one side and the majestic Mourne Mountains on the other. Ideal for families, wheelchair users, and casual walkers, the promenade is dotted with cafés, ice cream parlours, and benches to soak up the seaside atmosphere.
Tollymore Forest Park
Tollymore Forest Park is just a short walk from the town centre of Newcastle. Tollymore Forest Park offers a more immersive walking experience, with routes ranging from gentle woodland loops to more challenging trails. Expect to see red squirrels, waterfalls, and gothic follies hidden among the trees—Tollymore is a fairytale landscape waiting to be explored.
Castlewellan Forest Park
Nestled at the foot of the Mourne Mountains and easily accessible via public transport bus routes, Castlewellan Forest Park is a walker’s paradise, offering a rich mix of woodland trails, lakeside paths, and panoramic viewpoints. With its mix of terrain, scenic beauty, and family-friendly vibe, Castlewellan is a must-visit for walkers of all levels.
So whether you’re tracing ancient pilgrim paths, uncovering hidden corners of historic towns, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk by the water, National Walking Month is your chance to explore Mourne Gullion Strangford in a whole new way. With excellent public transport options connecting you to trails, towns, and tranquil spots, getting around car-free has never been easier—or more rewarding. Step into the great outdoors this May, embrace the beauty on your doorstep, and let every walk become part of your story.
Located on Forest Park View, Castlewellan, County Down, in a dramatic setting of mountains and sea, Castlewellan Forest Park has one of the most outstanding tree and shrub collections in Europe. The beauty, vigour and perfect shape of the trees in the National Arboretum attract tree enthusiasts from around the world.
This walk begins at the Down County Museum, passing the Mound of Down, travelling along the Quoile River taking in sights such as Quoile Countryside Centre and Steamboat Quay.
Located on the north bank of the Quoile River, Inch Abbey was founded by John de Courcy in atonement for his destruction of Erenagah Abbey.
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.
The castle dates probably from around the 15th century, but the early history is unknown. This site was used for filming a scene for Game of Thrones®.
Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, Delamont Country Park, Killyleagh offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. The stunning views across Strangford Lough and the relaxing atmosphere make Delamont Country Park a place to enjoy that 'away from it all feeling'.
Strangford Lough is located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is almost fully enclosed by land. It is the largest sea water inlet in Ireland and the United Kingdom and an important habitat for wildlife. A regular car ferry links the picturesque towns of Strangford and Portaferry. Strangford Lough is a significant asset in the Aspiring UNESCO global Geopark. The Lough was formed at the end of the last ice age. Strangford Lough is Northern Ireland's first Marine Conservation Zone and is a special area of conservation for wildlife. Strangford Lough is a key destination for winter migration for many wading and sea birds. The lough is home to common seals, basking sharks and brent geese.
The imposing Strangford Stone is the tallest megalith in the British Isles. It was quarried from the Mourne Mountains and now stands tall in Delamont Country Park, Killyleagh facing the Mournes.
Join local storyteller and tour guide Sinead Rice McAleavey for an engaging and imaginative walking tour through the heart of Newry City. This unique guided experience brings the rich tapestry of Newry’s heritage to life.
Slieve Gullion is Ireland's Mountain of Mystery. Slieve Gullion Forest Park offers walking trails, a scenic drive, an Adventure Playpark, Fionn's Giant Adventure children's story trail and a Courtyard with coffee shop.
he Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a unique geological landform and was the first ring dyke in the world to be geologically mapped. Situated in south Armagh, this AONB is not just a landscape; it’s a reflection of the people and the stories that have shaped the community. The Ring of Gullion has a connection to the natural world with the rolling hills, verdant valleys, and meandering rivers that define the region. It is more than just scenery; it’s the backdrop to the lives of the people, a sanctuary for local wildlife, and a source of tranquillity.
Kilbroney Park features riverside walks and an arboretum. There is a two-mile forest drive which showcases panoramic views over Carlingford Lough. There is also a Play Park with children's play area and tennis courts, an Information area and a café all on site.
The Narnia Trail starts and finishes within Kilbroney Park, Rostrevor and brings to life the C.S Lewis book, "Chronicles of Narnia" with a number of features along the route.
Rostrevor Mountain Bike Trails in Kilbroney Park and Rostrevor Forest offer challenging climbs with some serious descents and Ireland's first two official downhill trails and other trails suitable for families to use. Make time to stop off at Kodak Corner to take in the view over Carlingford Lough and beyond.
Experience the Mournes by bike on road, track and trail with the guided and self-guided bike and electric bike tours or do it yourself with bike and electric bike hire. Explore the majestic mountains, dramatic coasts, stunning landscapes, enchanting forests, award winning mountain bike trails and endless year-round cycle adventures.
Newcastle is a small drying harbour with fixed fore/aft moorings and consists of two piers suitable for yachts up to 11m long that can take the ground. There is ‘the wee quay’ otherwise known as the North Quay at the town side of the harbour and ‘the dog leg quay’ which lies to the South side of the harbour. Both quays have steel gates that may be locked by local boat owners or the Local Council in storms.
Tollymore Forest Park has panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the sea at Newcastle and is open to the public all year. Tollymore Forest covers an area of almost 630 hectares at the foot of the Mourne Mountains.
Located on Forest Park View, Castlewellan, County Down, in a dramatic setting of mountains and sea, Castlewellan Forest Park has one of the most outstanding tree and shrub collections in Europe. The beauty, vigour and perfect shape of the trees in the National Arboretum attract tree enthusiasts from around the world.
