History & Culture
Heritage & Attractions
Eight centuries of history, from Norman castles to screen tourism legends. Discover the stories woven into this ancient landscape.
8 Centuries
of History
4+
Historic Castles
GoT & Narnia
Filming Sites
10+
Annual Festivals
Medieval Heritage
Castles & Historical Sites
Dundrum Castle
Free to visit
Built by John De Courcy as a coastal defence, this Norman stronghold commands panoramic views of the Mourne Mountains, Murlough Bay, and the surrounding countryside from its dramatic hilltop position.
Castle Ward
GoT filming location
A unique 18th-century mansion with two distinct architectural styles—Gothic and Classical. Set on the shores of Strangford Lough, this National Trust property doubled as Winterfell in Game of Thrones.
Narrow Water Castle
Scenic riverside setting
A picturesque tower house near Warrenpoint, guarding the narrow passage where the Newry River meets Carlingford Lough. A hidden gem with stunning waterside views.
Greencastle
Cross-border views
Overlooking the entrance to Carlingford Lough, this ancient coastal castle offers commanding views across to the Republic of Ireland.
Screen Tourism
From Westeros to Narnia, the Mourne region has inspired storytellers and filmmakers for generations.
Game of Thrones Territory
More Seven Kingdoms filming locations here than anywhere else. Tollymore Forest (Haunted Forest), Castle Ward (Winterfell), Audley's Field, and River Quoile all brought Westeros to life.
Explore GoT locationsC.S. Lewis & Narnia
C.S. Lewis wrote that the view from Rostrevor was "my idea of Narnia." Walk the Narnia Trail in Kilbroney Park and discover the landscapes that inspired the Chronicles.
Walk the Narnia TrailArts & Music
Literary & Musical Heritage
Percy French
Composer of the beloved song "The Mountains of Mourne" (1896), immortalizing the landscape that sweeps down to the sea. His legacy lives on at the Percy French Restaurant at Slieve Donard Resort.
"Where the Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea"
Traditional Music
The region has a strong session culture, with Rostrevor especially known for its musicians. Catch traditional Irish music in pubs and at festivals throughout the year.
Live sessions in Rostrevor and beyond
“Oh, Mary, this London's a wonderful sight, With people here workin' by day and by night...”
— Percy French, “The Mountains of Mourne” (1896)
Discover
Museums & Cultural Sites
Saint Patrick Centre
Downpatrick
Multimedia exhibition telling the story of Ireland's patron saint. Downpatrick is Saint Patrick's final resting place.
028 4461 9000Down County Museum
English Street, Downpatrick, BT30 6AH
Local history and heritage museum housed in the restored buildings of Down County Gaol.
033 0137 4252Newry and Mourne Museum
Bagenal's Castle, Newry
Explore the rich history of the Newry and Mourne region in one of the oldest buildings in the city.
King's Grave
Mourne Mountains
A 3,000-year-old Bronze Age burial site (c.1500 BC) discovered along the Mourne Way. Ancient heritage in a dramatic mountain setting.
Mary Catherine's Cottage
Newry
A hidden heritage gem offering a glimpse into traditional rural life in the Mourne region.
St Patrick's Way
82-mile trail
A pilgrim trail following in the footsteps of Saint Patrick through County Down and beyond.
Year-Round Events
Festivals & Events
From airshows to music festivals, the Mourne region celebrates its culture throughout the year.
Festival of Flight Airshow
Newcastle
Red Arrows, RAF, and Irish Air Corps displays over Newcastle beach.
Wake the Giant
Newcastle
Family-friendly festival celebrating local culture and entertainment.
Soma Festival
Castlewellan
Music, arts, and culture festival set in the grounds of Castlewellan Forest Park.
Eat & Beats
Newcastle
A celebration of local food producers and live music.
Wee Binnians Walking Festival
Mourne Mountains
Guided walks for all abilities celebrating the Mourne landscape.
Blues on the Bay
Warrenpoint
Blues music festival on the shores of Carlingford Lough.
Fiddler's Green
Rostrevor
International folk and traditional music festival in a beautiful village setting.
Loughside Festival
Warrenpoint
Community celebration on the waterfront with music, food, and activities.
Discover Mourne's Rich Heritage
From Saint Patrick's burial site to Norman castles and Game of Thrones filming locations, explore centuries of history and culture.