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Warrenpoint on the shores of Carlingford Lough

Loughside Town

Warrenpoint

A relaxed loughside town on the shores of Carlingford Lough, known for its vibrant live music scene and warm community spirit.

Location

Carlingford Lough

Culture

Live Music Scene

Events

Blues Festival

Access

5min to Rostrevor

Warrenpoint sits peacefully on the northern shore of Carlingford Lough, where the water mirrors the dramatic mountains on both sides. This relaxed town has carved out a reputation as a music venue hub, drawing visitors with its live performances, welcoming pubs, and the stunning loughside setting.

Music at the Heart

Warrenpoint has carved out a reputation as a music town, with live performances regularly enlivening its pubs and venues throughout the year. From blues and rock to folk and everything in between, the town's musical spirit makes any evening here a potential discovery.

The annual Blues on the Bay festival transforms Warrenpoint into a celebration of blues music, with performances across multiple venues creating an electric atmosphere that draws music lovers from across Ireland.

Loughside Living

The waterfront defines Warrenpoint's character. The promenade offers easy walks with views across to the Cooley Mountains in County Louth, while the town's parks and green spaces provide perfect spots for a picnic or simply watching the boats on the lough.

Historic venues like The Victoria pub and the Whistledown Hotel add character to the town, offering good food and drink in atmospheric surroundings that have welcomed visitors for generations.

Gateway to Adventure

Just five minutes from Rostrevor, Warrenpoint makes an ideal base for exploring the southern Mournes. The mountain bike trails of Rostrevor are practically on the doorstep, while the Narnia Trail at Kilbroney Park and the dramatic Cloughmore Stone are equally accessible.

For those heading to the Ring of Gullion or crossing to the Cooley Peninsula, Warrenpoint sits at a perfect crossroads, making it easy to combine loughside relaxation with mountain adventure.

Things to Do

Blues on the Bay Festival

Relaxing

Annual blues festival bringing top acts to the loughside town. Multiple venues across Warrenpoint come alive with music.

Weekend

Loughside Walk

Easy

Scenic waterfront promenade along Carlingford Lough with views across to the Cooley Peninsula and the mountains beyond.

1-2 hours

The Victoria Pub

Relaxing

Historic pub with character, offering good food and drink in a welcoming atmosphere with traditional Irish hospitality.

Evening

Loughside Festival

Relaxing

Summer celebration featuring live music, family activities, and local food along the waterfront.

Full day

Getting There

From Belfast:
1 hour via A1 and A2

From Dublin:
1.5 hours via M1 and A1

From Newry:
15 minutes via A2 coastal road

From Rostrevor:
5 minutes along the lough

Best Time to Visit

  • Summer: Festival season, outdoor events along the lough
  • Year-round: Live music at local venues and pubs
  • Autumn: Blues on the Bay festival
Explore All Seasons

Where to Eat

The VictoriaTraditional

Historic pub with character and good food

Whistledown HotelGastropub

Waterfront dining with local cuisine

The Square BistroCafe

Coffee and light bites on the main street

Where to Stay

  • The Whistledown Hotel: Boutique hotel and live music venue
  • Canal Court Hotel: 4-star hotel, 15 min drive in Newry
  • Local B&Bs & Self-Catering: Welcoming guesthouses and holiday lets

Local Tips

  • Combine with a trip to Rostrevor for mountain biking
  • The promenade is perfect for evening walks
  • Book ahead during Blues on the Bay weekend
  • Cross to Carlingford for a day trip to the Cooley Peninsula
  • Ask locals about live music happening during your visit

Ready to Explore Warrenpoint?

Experience the loughside charm, live music, and warm hospitality of this welcoming Mourne town.