Experience Culture & Heritage

Discover the rich cultural tapestry woven through the Mourne Gullion Strangford region, where heritage lives on through vibrant traditions, storytelling, and skilled craftsmanship. This captivating area invites visitors to explore centuries-old customs, from ancient myths and legends to the enduring practices that continue to shape local life. It’s a region where the past is ever-present, offering a deeply immersive and authentic cultural experience.

Step into the Stories of the Past

Across the Mourne Mountains, Ring of Gullion and Strangford Lough, immersive experiences bring heritage to life in unforgettable ways. Whether it’s learning a traditional craft, taking part in hands-on workshops, or joining a guided heritage trail, each activity offers a unique window into the past. These experiences are designed for all ages, making them ideal for family adventures, cultural holidays, or slow travel getaways that celebrate local traditions. Many of these experiences are rooted in sustainability—supporting local communities, protecting cultural knowledge, and encouraging low-impact tourism that respects both people and place.

Uncover Timeless Traditions in Mourne Gullion Strangford

Set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty, the cultural offerings of this region are enhanced by its dramatic landscapes - rolling hills, mystical forests, and serene coastal views. The connection between place and story is deeply felt here, making Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion not just a destination, but a journey into the heart of our heritage. Perfect for curious travellers seeking depth, authenticity, and lasting memories.

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Live the Legend

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Donkey Trail Through Time Experience

Welcome to a "Donkey Trail Through Time", our unique 2-hour guided tour where you will harness your very own working donkey and farm the land with original equipment while learning of the history and heritage of farming and donkeys in Ireland.
Dancing at the Crossroads

Get involved in this high-octane experience celebrating the centuries-old traditions of Irish dancing. Join Josephine Brennan King, a former principal Irish dancer for Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance, for a fun-filled interactive experience filled with Irish traditions and dancing.
Experience Foraging and Farming Through The Ages

Prepare to step back in time as we explore how our place in the natural word has evolved over the many centuries, from foraging to farming. My name is Brian and I have foraged and farmed this magical landscape for all of my life.
Men of the Mournes

Join expert mountain guide Peter Rafferty as he stretches your imagination - and your legs - as you discover the sights and sounds of this special mountain range.
The Saint Patrick Centre

The Saint Patrick Centre is the only permanent exhibition in the World about Ireland’s Patron Saint. The History of Ireland starts here in Patrick’s words, which guide you through our amazing multimedia exhibition. Located 2 Hours north of Dublin and 35 minutes south of Belfast beside Saint Patrick’s Grave with a fantastic Craft Store and incredible Garden Cafe. This needs to be your first stop in Ireland.
1. 1 Jan 202531 Dec 2025
Mourne Stone Walling - A Granite Kingdom

Learn the age old craft of Mourne Stone Wall building using Mourne Granite.
Patrick and The Pagan Hills

Walking with Duane Fitzsimons, local historian, tour guide and storyteller. This is the place he calls home but it is no ordinary place though, it is the Home of Saint Patrick.
Booley and Butter - Mountain Ways Ireland

Forgotten Traditions of the past – with Artisan and Foraged Lunch ‘ploughman style’. Awaken the Traditions of a 6000 year old Mountain Community in the Magical Ring of Gullion
Montalto Estate

Montalto Estate in Ballynahinch is a mystical and enchanting estate, set in magnificent natural surroundings. Visitor experience includes access to the estate's beautiful gardens; historic walks and trails and an exciting play area where children can engage, explore and learn.
1. 1 Jan 000131 Dec 9999
2. 1 Jan 000131 Dec 9999
3. 1 Jan 202531 Dec 2025
Voyage Through The Centuries Experience

Embark on an enchanting voyage as you set sail on a longship tour of Ardglass. With each stroke of the oars, your journey transports you back in time. Revealing glimpses of the past, you will unlock the story of the village with six castles from a unique vantage point. Accompanied by Duane, a knowledgeable storyteller, regaling you with captivating tales of maritime legends, historic events, and colourful characters who graced these shores.
Saint Patrick's Way Camino and Canoe Adventure

St Patrick's Way Camino & Canoe Adventure, Downpatrick.
Walk Saint Patrick's Way

Walk in the footsteps of Saint Patrick on Saint Patrick’s Way and discover his story with our Pilgrim Guides around the beautiful medieval town of Downpatrick.
Hike & Haffuns Tour

Rostrevor to Killowen Distillery, on our route we will visit Cloughmore (The Big Stone), Ballynagelty and Slieve Martin and enjoy our packed lunch while drinking in the magnificent views.
The Legacy of Saint Brigid

Immersive, hands-on ancient Irish cultural heritage experience - The Legacy of Saint Brigid.
Group Tours of Cardinal O'Fiaich Heritage Centre

Group Tours of The Cardinal O'Fiaich Heritage Centre For a perfect day out book your guided group tour with Úna Walsh of the O'Fiaich Heritage Centre, along with history and stories of South Armagh. The tour will last 2 hours and includes light lunch, dessert, tea and coffee. Admission is £9 To arrange a group booking please contact Úna Walsh
1. 13 Feb 202530 Apr 2026
Down Cathedral and Saint Patrick's Grave

Down Cathedral, a Cathedral of the Church of Ireland with magnificent stain glass windows, box pews and beautiful organ case was built in 1183 as a Benedictine Monastry. The patron saint, Patrick is believed to be buried in the nearby graveyard.
Castle Ward

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.
1. 1 Jan 000131 Dec 9999
Downpatrick & County Down Railway

Travel back to the past with real vintage steam trains through St. Patrick's Country, over the River Quoile and under the graceful Down Cathedral to peaceful ruins of Inch Abbey.
Down County Museum

Down County Museum is located in the old county Gaol of Down. It houses fascinating exhibitions on the history of Down as well as restored cells with life-size figures of prisoners and their gaolers.
'The Story of Newry' Walking Tour

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.
1. 3 May 202527 Sep 2025
Newry and Mourne Museum, Bagenal's Castle

Bagenal’s Castle located in historic Newry is a 16th century fortified house and adjoining 19th Century warehouse, and has been sympathetically restored to house Newry & Mourne Museum and Newry Visitor Information Centre.

Experience It for Yourself

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St Patrick's Way: The Pilgrim Walk

Saint Patrick's Way: The Pilgrim Walk is a 132-kilometre (82-mile) trail connecting Armagh and Downpatrick, two locations in Northern Ireland closely associated with Saint Patrick.
Museums

The Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion has a rich and varied history dating back several thousand years. From Neolithic sites, all the way up to the 20th century, our museums and heritage sites tell the story of local people’s lives over the centuries.
So What is Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark?

With three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty to explore in the Geopark including the Mourne Mountains, Ring of Gullion and Strangford Lough. You’ll be spoilt for choice and will have plenty of opportunities to delve into the fascinating geological heritage of the area.
Giant Experiences

The Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion is full to the brim with exciting experiences. Whether you’re planning your next family break or your latest solo adventure, our forests, mountains, and shores are home to some of the most unique day trips, excursions and experiences around.