Father’s Day is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with an unforgettable day out in Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion? Whether you're planning something adventurous, scenic, or relaxing, this stunning destination in Northern Ireland has everything you need to make dads, grandads, and father figures feel truly appreciated. From coastal walks to hearty meals and unique experiences, here are five fantastic ways to spend Father’s Day in the Mourne Gullion Strangford region.
1. Festival Fun in Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion
Is your dad a music lover, a foodie, or someone who simply loves the buzz of a great day out? Grab tickets to one of the vibrant festivals happening across Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion this summer. From live music and artisan food markets to cultural celebrations, a festival experience is the perfect way to treat him to a day packed with memories.
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2. Raise a Glass with a Whiskey, Food or Chocolate Tour
Cheers to Dad with a tasting tour! Take him on a journey through the rich heritage of local distilleries, where he can sample craft whiskeys, meet the makers, and learn the secrets behind every sip. Or sample the food and drink of the region. It’s a great way to spend quality time together – and maybe even find his new favourite bottle or restaurant!
- Shortcross Whiskey Tour & Tasting, Crossgar
- Killowen Distillery Tour & Tasting, Rostrevor
- Two Stacks Whiskey Tour, Newry
- Whitewater Brewery, Castlewellan
- Master Craft Chocolate Experience, Kilkeel
- Savour & Sip Warrenpoint | Food and Drink Tour
- Newcastle Food & Drink Tour
3. Get Outdoors and Embrace Adventure
If your dad loves the great outdoors, why not make a day of it? Explore one of the many scenic forest parks dotted around Mourne Mountains, Ring of Gullion and Strangford Lough.
- Castlewellan Forest Park
- Delamont Country Park, Killyleagh
- Kilbroney Forest Park, Rostrevor
- Slieve Gullion Forest Park, Newry
If cars are his thing, why not combine a walk with the Classic Cars event at Montalto Estate, Ballynahinch or Kilbroney Vintage Show, Rostrevor.
4. Pamper Him with a Great Meal (or a Cruise!)
Treat Dad to a delicious meal at one of the area’s outstanding local restaurants, pubs, or cafés. Think hearty roasts, fresh seafood, and a cosy atmosphere – the perfect way to say thank you. For something a little different, why not book a scenic cruise on Carlingford Lough? He can sit back, relax, and take in the breathtaking views from the water – an experience he’ll remember for years to come.
5. Try Something New Together
Father’s Day is the perfect excuse to tick something off the bucket list. How about trying a new activity together? Whether it’s a beginner’s kayaking lesson, hiring electric bikes for a countryside adventure, a guided hiking tour, or even taking advange of the region's golf pass, there’s no shortage of ways to make new memories together in Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion.
From thrilling adventures to peaceful moments and everything in between, Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion offer so many ways to treat your dad this Father’s Day. Better yet, many of these experiences are great for the whole family – making it a day everyone will enjoy!
Check out What's On and other exciting things to do for the rest of the year.
Start planning your Father’s Day adventure today and have a great day out in Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion.
Art, craft and history blend together at Shortcross Distillery, to create an unforgettable experience on the beautiful grounds of Rademon Estate. Join founders Fiona and David to learn about their award-winning gin, which also happens to be Northern Ireland’s first craft gin.
NearyNogs is a small family-run business that produces some of Northern Ireland’s finest, most irresistible chocolate, and they’re ready to welcome you in and show you how it’s made.
Taste your way through Warrenpoint on a delicious guided walking tour! Discover local cafés, bakeries, and traditional bars while sampling fresh produce and sweet treats.
The village has a number of beautiful walks through Rostrevor Forest and Kilbroney Park. Rostrevor is an area of historical interest and has lots of associated folklore. On the slopes of Slieve Martin in Kilbroney Park you will find the ‘Big Stone’. St Bronagh’s 6th Century Church and Bell and Giant Murphy’s Grave are also located in the village.
Join local tour guide, Mairead Sweeney for this three hour Food & Drink Tour of Newcastle, County Down. This tour is designed for all those who are passionate about food and drink and enjoy getting to know the town's people and it's history.
Escape your busy life with a break in the wonderful Mourne Mountains or Carlingford Lough, we can help you relax and recharge the batteries.
Epic adventures are on offer all year round at Life Adventure Centre. Their extensive range of activities include mountain biking, stand-up paddleboarding, wet bouldering, rock climbing, sit on top kayaking, coasteering, electric biking and open canoeing - something for everyone!
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.
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.
A two and a half hour sunset passenger cruise which offers a rare opportunity to enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of Carlingford Lough and the iconic Haulbowline Lighthouse, guarding the entrance to the Lough.
Slieve Gullion Forest Park offers the unmissable opportunity to experience tranquil woodland trails, stunning views across the Ring of Gullion, Mourne Mountains, Cooley Peninsula and Armagh Drumlins and is a top class facility for walkers and families.
Join us at Montalto Estate for a spectacular Classic Car & Bike Show in support of Cancer Fund for Children!
Newcastle and Castlewellan Bike Hire We have a wide range of bikes available for hire. Mountain bikes, electric e-bikes, tandem bicycles, kids bicycles. You name it, we should have it. Free delivery and shuttle bus service.
Experience the beauty and adventure that hides over every peak and rolling hill in the Mournes with one of Mourne Mountain Adventures’ guided hikes. We provide you with the perfect way to gain an in-depth insight into the region’s incredible flora and fauna, history and geography and breathtaking views.
Join us for a look around our brewery, see how we make some of our award winning brews, then head back to the Tap House where you can try some ales and hear some tales.
