Tollymore Forest Park — Attraction in Newry, Mourne and Down District Council

I arrived on a very wet day in December. I was expecting a grim, Mike Leigh-style cafe experience, but my hopes were dashed, as the facilities were closed.

I had the place largely to myself. The rain hammered down and turned what I presume in summer are mild babbling waterways into raging whitewater sluices, churning like something out of Deliverance. I half expected to hear banjo music, and inbred mutants whooping and hollering.

Sadly that was not to be, but I pressed on regardless. I had, as they say, come all this way.

The park has many follies, pleasant little architectural foibles, medieval style bridges and a multitude of water channels and unexpected stairways to cross the gardens. After California the brightness of the greenery is somewhat shocking. The green gives way to the yellows and oranges of leaf-fall in the woods by the water. It was semi-flooded in places down there and the path was eventually blocked off, presumably due to the water. There was no warning about this further back, so turning around to find a crossing was frustrating. The Hermitage was a decent curiosity. I'd be pleased if someone made such a memorial to me, but probably wouldn't enjoy it much if I were deceased.

The rain really started coming down hard and I was soaked, even through my rain gear. After another mile I gave up and returned to the heavily unsubscribed car park. There are some pleasant old buildings at the top of the hill, well worth a look. Additionally, I had an itinerary, attempting to see a few places in one day, with limited daylight hours, doing a big circle around Mourne. I recommend making this park a destination and taking your time about the visit.

Ultimately, I recommend visiting, but I can say with a degree of certainty that it would be a more rewarding experience without the rain and cold... But it may be busier. So swings and...

Tollymore Forest Park is a beautiful and scenic place to visit in Newcastle, Northern Ireland. It covers an area of almost 630 hectares at the foot of the Mourne mountains, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the sea. It is open to the public all year round, and has a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests.

Some of the highlights of Tollymore Forest Park are:

The Shimna river, which flows through the park and features many curiosities, such as rocky outcrops, bridges, grottos and caves. The garden follies, which are whimsical structures designed by Thomas Wright of Durham in the 18th century, such as a barn disguised as a church, stone cones on gate piers and gothic-style arches. The exotic trees, which include monkey puzzle, eucalyptus, giant redwoods and Monterey pines, some of which were planted as experimental forest plots. The camping and touring site, which offers tarmac pitches with electric hookups for touring vehicles, and a grassed area for tents, as well as toilet, shower and washing facilities. The walking trails, which range from easy to challenging, and offer access to the higher Mourne Mountains, such as Slieve Donard and Slieve Commedagh, as well as the Mourne Way, part of the Ulster Way.

Tollymore Forest Park is also a popular location for filming, as it has been used as a backdrop for several movies and TV shows, such as Dracula Untold, The Fall and Game of Thrones⁵.

If you are looking for a relaxing and enjoyable day out in nature, Tollymore Forest Park is a great choice. You can find more information about the park on its official website or on Discover...

Tollymore Forest Park in County Down is a breathtaking destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty with a sense of adventure. Nestled at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, this park is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, offering a mix of lush woodlands, cascading rivers, and picturesque bridges that feel straight out of a fairy tale.

One of the highlights of Tollymore is its diversity of trails, suitable for all fitness levels. From the easy Arboretum Path to the more challenging Mountain Trail, every route reveals stunning vistas and enchanting features. The Shimna River, with its tumbling waterfalls and tranquil pools, is a constant companion, adding to the park’s serene atmosphere. The stone bridges and ancient stepping stones are not only functional but also add to the park’s timeless charm.

Tollymore is rich in history and intrigue. The Gothic-style gates and follies scattered throughout the park give it a unique character, while its use as a filming location for Game of Thrones adds an extra layer of allure for fans. Whether you’re there to explore the trails, enjoy a peaceful picnic, or simply soak in the tranquility, Tollymore has something for everyone.

The park’s well-maintained facilities, ample parking, and friendly staff make the experience even more enjoyable. Its quiet, unspoiled environment makes it an ideal retreat for families, couples, or solo adventurers. If you’re looking for a place to reconnect with nature and enjoy some of Ireland’s finest landscapes, Tollymore Forest Park is an...