Castlewellan

#5976 among destinations in the United Kingdom

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Facts and practical information

Castlewellan, located in the heart of Northern Ireland, is a charming town known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history. Nestled at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, Castlewellan offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

One of the town's most prominent attractions is Castlewellan Forest Park, a sprawling 450-acre estate that boasts a magnificent castle, serene lake, and lush woodlands. Visitors can explore the park's numerous walking and cycling trails, or take part in a variety of outdoor activities such as horseback riding, fishing, and orienteering. The park is also home to the stunning National Arboretum, which showcases an impressive collection of trees and plants from around the world.

For history enthusiasts, a visit to Castlewellan Castle is a must. This striking Victorian-era castle, set amidst beautifully landscaped grounds, offers guided tours that provide insight into the area's rich heritage. The castle is also a popular venue for events and weddings, adding a touch of elegance to any special occasion.

In addition to its natural and historical attractions, Castlewellan is also a hub for cultural events and festivals. The town's lively music and arts scene offers visitors the opportunity to experience traditional Irish music, dance, and storytelling, while local craft shops and markets provide the perfect opportunity to pick up unique souvenirs and gifts.

Alternative names: Population: 2.5 thous.Coordinates: 54°15'27"N, 5°56'36"W

Location

Northern IrelandUnited Kingdom

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Day trips

Castlewellan – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Tide pool, Tollymore Forest Park, Slieve Donard, Legananny Dolmen.

4.3 miSE
Watersports, Swimming pool
Tide pool, Newcastle
110 min walk • A tide pool or rock pool is a shallow pool of seawater that forms on the rocky intertidal shore. Many of these pools exist as separate bodies of water only at low tide.
2.7 miS
Park
Tollymore Forest Park
69 min walk • Nestled in the heart of County Down, Northern Ireland, Tollymore Forest Park is an enchanting expanse of woodland that offers a natural retreat for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the great outdoors.
5.4 miS
Northern Ireland's highest peak
Slieve Donard
139 min walk • Slieve Donard is the highest mountain in Northern Ireland and the wider province of Ulster, with a height of 850 metres. The highest of the Mourne Mountains, it is near the town of Newcastle on the eastern coast of County Down, overlooking the Irish Sea.
5.5 miNW
Archaeological site
Legananny Dolmen, Banbridge
140 min walk • Legananny Dolmen is a megalithic dolmen or cromlech nine miles southeast of Banbridge and three miles north of Castlewellan, both in County Down, Northern Ireland.
4.7 miS
Nature, Natural attraction, Mountain
Slieve Commedagh
121 min walk • Slieve Commedagh is a mountain with a height of 767 m in County Down, Northern Ireland. It is the second-highest of the Mourne Mountains, after Slieve Donard, and the second-highest mountain in Northern Ireland.
0.9 miNW
Park
Castlewellan Forest Park
24 min walk • Castlewellan Forest Park is located in the town of Castlewellan in County Down, Northern Ireland. The park covers some 460 hectares, including woodland and a 40 hectare lake.
5.4 miS
Nature, Natural attraction, Mountain
Slieve Bearnagh
137 min walk • Slieve Bearnagh is one of the Mourne Mountains in County Down, Northern Ireland. It has a height of 739 metres. Its summit is crowned by two tors with a gap between them, giving it a distinctive shape.
4.1 miSE
Park
Donard Park, Newcastle
105 min walk • Donard Park is a public park located in Newcastle, County Down, Northern Ireland. It is next to the Glen River, which forms the boundary along one side and is at the foot of Slieve Donard, the highest mountain in Northern Ireland, part of the Mourne Mountains.
5.7 miSW
Nature, Natural attraction, Mountain
Slieve Meelbeg
146 min walk • Slieve Meelbeg is a mountain located in the Mourne Mountains. It is a popular hiking destination and is 5.5 miles east of the village of Hilltown.
4.1 miSE
Nature, Natural attraction, Forest
Donard Forest
106 min walk • Donard Forest is located near Newcastle, County Down, Northern Ireland. It borders Donard Park at the foot of the Mourne Mountains. The Glen River flows through the forest where it is crossed by three stone bridges. The north east section of the forest contains a Heritage Stand of Scots and Corsican pine planted in 1927.
5 miNE
Forts and castles
Clough Castle
128 min walk • Clough Castle is an 11th century Anglo-Norman motte-and-bailey castle located in Clough, County Down, Northern Ireland. It consists of a ruined tower house situated on a 7.6 metres high motte.