Family Experiences in Mourne Gullion Strangford

Escape to a land of legends, laughter and landscapes made for adventure. Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion is bursting with fun, affordable experiences for families who love to explore, play and reconnect with nature.Whether you're seeking outdoor escapades, mythical storytelling or hands-on creative fun, this region offers something for every age and interest.

Explore our Forest Parks in Mourne Gullion Strangford 

• Enjoy a summer of free, family-friendly fun at Castlewellan Forest Park, Delamont Country Park, Kilbroney Park, and Slieve Gullion Forest Park with our Forest Activities – no booking needed! Just look out for the purple flag and join in the activities when you arrive. Find out more here.

• Explore Fionn's Giant Adventure, follow the trails through mystical woodlands, play among fairy folk, and enjoy one of the region’s best-loved adventure playparks at Slieve Gullion Forest Park. 

• Walk, cycle or paddle your way through this Castlewellan Forest Park. Explore the Peace Maze and hire bikes for gentle trails the whole family can enjoy.

• Take in the views over Carlingford Lough at Kilbroney Park, discover the Cloughmore Trail, and let the little ones loose in the play area.

• Enjoy open space, woodland trails and stunning views over Strangford Lough, with a great play park and mini train ride for younger adventurers — Delamont Country Park is a kids’ paradise for outdoor play and discovery.

Outdoor Adventures in Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark 

• Get wet, wild and adventurous with a two-hour bouldering session made for families with kids aged 8+. Expect splashes, laughs and serious fun at the Wet Bouldering Family Session.

• Step away from screens and into the wild with fun, hands-on Bushcraft Experiences designed for all ages. Little explorers aged 18 months+ can enjoy Wee Wild Fun,  and older children can learn real bushcraft skills and outdoor techniques on exciting courses that inspire confidence, curiosity and adventure.

• Explore the great outdoors with Bike Mourne and Life Adventure Centre, offering bike hire, e-bikes, and thrilling outdoor activities across Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion. Whether you're cycling forest trails or trying paddleboarding on the lake, it's the perfect base for family adventure.

Animal Encounters in Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion 

• Follow friendly goats along scenic trails, then meet, pet and feed other animals at Goats in the Field – Slievenaman Goat Trail & Petting Farm. This charming countryside experience just outside Newcastle.

• Enjoy a relaxing alpaca trek with breathtaking Mourne coastal views at Cranfield Alpacas — ideal for animal-loving families looking for a gentle and unique outing.

• Connect with nature and tradition at Robert’s family farm at Kinedale Donkeys, Ballynahinch, where 25 gentle, therapy-trained donkeys await. Enjoy a Donkey Trek through the rolling drumlins, or step back in time with the Donkey Trail Through Time. 

Festivals & Cultural Events in Mourne Gullion Strangford

• Meet the giants, enjoy street theatre, live music and interactive storytelling at Wake the Giant: Gathering of the Clans, Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 June in Warrenpoint, Co. Down. 

• Celebrate Irish culture with live music, storytelling, family activities and traditional sessions across at Iúr Cinn Fleadh, Newry. What’s more, most events are free!

• Get ready for three magical nights of live performance as our Summer Showcase brings theatre, music, and dance to Newry Town Hall from Thursday 19 to Saturday 21 June!

• Get ready for a weekend of flavour and fun as the Eats and Beats Festival returns to Newcastle, County Down on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 September 2025. This free, family-friendly festival is packed with tasty local food, live music, and a buzzing seaside atmosphere—perfect for families looking to enjoy great eats and even better beats together.

Creative & Play Experiences in Mourne Gullion Strangford

• Join in the fun at Castle Ward’s Summer of Play. Take part in themed play zones from dragon-slaying quests and medieval games to nature digs and stage performances. Included with general admission.

• Enjoy family fun at Castle Park Go Karts & Crazy Golf – perfect for a sunny day out! Open every Saturday and Sunday throughout the Summer.

• Join Tessa Ann for an interactive storytelling experience that blends sound, imagination and play. Children will meet characters from Magical Sounds with Echo Ta Ta & Friends and help bring the story to life through instruments and playful soundscapes. 

Plan Your Summer Escape in Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion

Whether it’s a weekend of wonder or a day trip packed with play, Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion is your go-to destination for quality family time. Start your adventure today and create lasting memories in a place where every trail tells a story. Plan your trip here.