Surrounding a fine trout lake and watched over by the stately mid-19th-century Castelwellan Castle (sadly closed to the public), this forest park just begs for picnics and outdoor activities. Woodland walks, a formal walled garden, and an interesting lakeside sculpture trail are among its attractions. Anglers can fish for trout (brown and rainbow) in the lake. The Peace Maze, planted in 2000, is an enormous hedge maze designed to represent the path to peace in Northern Ireland. The real draw is the National Arboretum, opened in 1740 and now 10 times its original size. The largest of its three greenhouses features aquatic plants and a collection of free-flying tropical birds. The town of Castlewellan, elegantly laid out around two squares, is a short distance away, as is the ancient fort of Drumena Cashel.
Mourne Mountains
Travel Guide
Mourne Mountains› Attraction
Castlewellan Forest Park
Forest Office: The Grange, Castlewellan Forest Park, Castlewellan, Co. Down, BT31 9BU
Our Rating
Hours
Daily 10am–sunset
Phone
028/4377-8664
Prices
Admission and parking: £5

Map
Forest Office: The Grange, Castlewellan Forest Park, Castlewellan, Co. Down, BT31 9BU Mourne MountainsNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.