Destination: County Down

Stunning natural region in Northern Ireland containing Mourne Mountains and NI's highest mountain

County Down Tours with Great British Trips
Introducing County Down
County Down is a spectacular region of Northern Ireland that has picturesque, low rolling hills which roll directly into the contrasting Mourne Mountaina and Slieve Donard. This mystical and inspiring landscape inspired CS Lewis to create the magical land of Narnia in the well-loved children's story books. The history of County Down stretches back over 7000 years and unsurprisingly plays home to wealth of ancient heritage sites. The most famous of these is Downpatrick, the area in which the patron saint of Ireland is said to be buried. Slieve Donard is Northern Ireland's highest mountain, which sits beautifully in the stunning Mourne Mountains – a range which sweeps directly into the sea. The Mournes are close to Dublin and Belfast and very easy to access yet in contrast to these great cities it is like entering another world. The picturesque gateway to the Mourne's is the popular Victorian seaside town of Newcastle. Newcastle combines high mountain passes with beautiful sandy beaches and has been recently redeveloped making it the perfect base for exploring Murlough National Nature Reserve and the Mourne Mountains.

Want to visit County Down?
Region: Northern Ireland
Time to spend here: 3 hours - 1 day
More Information: Tourist Information website
What's nearby? Belfast, Donegal
What transport do you recommend? Downpatrick is relatively small and the centre can be navigated on foot whilst a vehicle is highly recommended to explore the county itself
Did you know? General Eisenhower visited Bangor and spoke to Allied troops before they left for World War II.
Take a look for yourself
What can I see in and around County Down?
Slieve Donard

Newcastle, County Down

Tollymore Forest Park

Down Cathedral

Bagenals Castle

Murlough National Nature Reserve

Mount Stewart House

Clearsky adventure centre
