Castlewellan

Just four miles from Newcastle, Castlewellan is a charming market town centred around one of Ireland's most beautiful Victorian forest parks. With its stunning lake, world-famous maze, championship mountain bike trails, and pioneering craft brewery, this is a destination that rewards those who venture beyond the coast.

Castlewellan Forest Park

The jewel of the town is its magnificent forest park. Set around a scenic lake with a Victorian castle as its centrepiece, the park offers 7.5 miles of walking trails through ancient woodland and manicured gardens. The castle itself, built in 1856 in Scottish Baronial style, reflects beautifully in the lake's still waters—a photographer's dream in any season.

Annesley Gardens & The Peace Maze

The Annesley Gardens are often described as "Castlewellan's best kept secret"—a hauntingly beautiful arboretum with hidden lakes, ornate fountains, and one of the finest tree collections in Europe. Rare specimens from around the world thrive in this sheltered microclimate, creating an almost magical atmosphere.

"The gardens here are truly world-class—every visit reveals something new, from towering redwoods to delicate Japanese maples."— Regular visitor

The Peace Maze, planted in 2001, is one of the world's largest permanent hedge mazes. With over 6,000 yew trees forming its intricate pathways, it offers a genuinely challenging experience—most visitors take 30-45 minutes to reach the centre, where a peace bell awaits. Allow at least two hours to fully enjoy this unique attraction.

Animal Wood

Families will love Animal Wood, where giant woodland sculptures bring the forest to life. A huge badger, red squirrel, and spider are hidden among the trees, creating a magical trail for children to explore.

Mountain Biking Hub

Castlewellan has established itself as Northern Ireland's premier mountain biking destination. Four colour-coded trail networks cater to every ability: the Green trail (5km) offers gentle lakeside riding for beginners; the Blue trail (5km) provides flowing intermediate terrain; the Red trail (20km) delivers thrilling singletrack including the famous "White Water Rapide" descent; and the Black trail (5km) challenges experts with technical features including "Dolly's Chute".

Bike hire is available at the Life Adventure Centre in the courtyard, which also offers wet bouldering, rock climbing, kayaking, and coasteering experiences.

Whitewater Brewery

Founded in 1996, Whitewater Brewery was a pioneer of Northern Ireland's craft beer revolution. Today they produce 10 distinctive beers, and brewery tours with tastings offer a fascinating insight into their craft. Book in advance to secure your spot.

Where to Stay & Dine

Hillyard House Hotel is an award-winning boutique hotel that has become a destination in itself. Their Yard Restaurant features an innovative salt meat aging chamber, producing exceptional charcuterie and aged steaks that draw food lovers from across the region.