Absolute best guide to things to do in County Down 

In the northeastern corner of Northern Ireland, County Down is a treasure trove of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. From its rugged coastline to its rolling green hills, this county offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a foodie, County Down promises an unforgettable experience. Here’s your ultimate guide to exploring this captivating region. It was an absolute pleasure to drive through County Down and stumble across so many incredible views and sites. This is an area well worth exploring at length. 

 Where is County Down?

County Down, is bordered by County Antrim to the north, County Armagh to the west, the Irish Sea to the east, and County Louth to the southwest. This is an incredibly picturesque county along the stunning shores of Strangford Lough. Just a short drive from Belfast, with landscapes that will make your jaw drop County Down is worth the drive from both Belfast and Dublin.

For those interested in history, the historic town of Downpatrick is worth a visit, additionally, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the world-renowned Royal County Down Championship Golf Course, known for its stunning scenery and challenging play (an exceedingly high green fees). Fans of Game of Thrones can also explore the nearby Game of Thrones studio.

With its diverse attractions, from the National Trust sites in the Ards and North area to the incredible hiking trails, County Down offers stunning panoramic views and unique experiences that make it an essential destination in Northern Ireland.

 Things to do in County Down: Ancient and Historic Sites

County Down is steeped in history, with sites that date back thousands of years. Here are some must visit ancient and historic landmarks:

Down Cathedral and St Patrick’s Grave  

Located in the charming town of Downpatrick, this cathedral is said to be the burial place of Ireland’s patron saint, St Patrick. The site is a place of pilgrimage and offers a fascinating glimpse into Ireland’s Christian heritage.

The Stunning Castle Ward  

This 18th century mansion near Strangford Lough is a unique blend of Gothic and Classical architectural styles. The estate also features beautiful gardens, walking trails, and stunning views of the lough. It’s a filming location for Game of Thrones, making it a must see for fans of the series.

Scrabo Tower

Scrabo Tower is one of the top attractions in county Down, located near Holywood, NI. It serves as a prominent landmark and an ideal spot for visitors looking to discover Northern Ireland’s rich history. From the tower, you can enjoy stunning views of Belfast Lough and the surrounding beautiful grounds. 

Nendrum Monastic Site  

Situated on Mahee Island in Strangford Lough, this ancient monastery dates back to the 5th century. The ruins include a round tower, church remains, and stunning views of the lough.

Legananny Dolmen  

This megalithic tomb, dating back to the Neolithic period, is one of the most iconic ancient sites in Northern Ireland. The dolmen, with its massive capstone balanced on three upright stones, is a photographer’s dream.

Clough Castle

Clough Castle is an 11th century Anglo-Norman motte-and-bailey castle located in Clough. It consists of a ruined tower house situated on a 7.6 metres (25 ft) high motte.

Quintin Castle

The Norman castle located in County Down, Northern Ireland is called Quintin Castle. It was built by John de Courcey, an Anglo-Norman knight, in 1184. 

 Quintin Castle is one of the remarkable places to visit in Holywood, NI, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history. Nestled in the heart of County Down, it is surrounded by beautiful grounds, making it a perfect spot for a day trip. 

The Mourne Mountains 

This granite mountain range is a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Slieve Donard, the highest peak in Northern Ireland, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the Irish Sea.

Silent Valley Reservoir  

Nestled in the heart of the Mournes, this serene spot is ideal for a peaceful walk. The reservoir is surrounded by mountains and offers several trails to explore.

Tollymore Forest Park  

Located at the foot of the Mournes, this park is a magical place to explore. With its winding trails, rustic bridges, and woodland scenery, it’s no wonder it was used as a filming location for Game of Thrones.

Strangford Lough  

This large sea lough is a haven for wildlife and a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Take a boat trip to explore its islands, or visit the Exploris Aquarium in Portaferry to learn about the local marine life.

Murlough National Nature Reserve  

This coastal reserve features sand dunes, heathland, and a stunning beach. It’s a great spot for birdwatching, walking, or simply enjoying the scenery.

Ulster Folk and Transport Museum

Located in Holywood, the Ulster Folk Museum is one of the top attractions in County Down. Visitors can explore beautiful grounds that showcase Northern Ireland’s rich heritage. Nearby, attractions like Mount Stewart and Scrabo Tower offer stunning views, while the Game of Thrones® Studio brings fantasy to life.This folk museum is a great place to visit for families, featuring a play area and delicious food and drink. 

Down County Museum

One of the best places to visit in Holywood, NI is the Down County Museum, a fascinating folk museum showcasing local history. 

Ards Peninsula

Located in County Down, the Ard Peninsula is a treasure trove of places to visit. Explore the beautiful grounds of Mount Stewart, enjoy a walk along Belfast Lough, or stop by the Ulster Folk Museum for a taste of history.

Dundrum Bay and Dundrum Castle

Located in County Down, Dundrum Bay and Dundrum Castle are among the top attractions in County Northern Ireland. Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds of the castle, which offers stunning views of Belfast Lough and Slieve Croob. The area is also a great base for those wanting to discover NI, with nearby highlights including Mount Stewart, Scrabo Tower, and the Ulster Folk Museum.

Mourne Mountains 

Located in County Down, the Mourne Mountains are one of the most stunning attractions in County Northern Ireland. With breathtaking views and a variety of places to visit, this area is a centre for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Not far from Ballynahinch and Holywood, visitors can explore landmarks like Scrabo Tower and the beautiful Mount Stewart. The surrounding regions also host a rich history, with ties to Saint Patrick and the famous Ulster Folk Museum.

Carlingford Lough

Located in County Down, Carlingford Lough is one of the top attractions in County Northern Ireland, offering stunning views and a rich history. Visitors can explore places to visit such as Mount Stewart and Scrabo Tower, while those interested in local culture can enjoy the Ulster Folk Museum and game of thrones® studio nearby. With delicious food and drink options, it’s one of the best places for a memorable trip.

Royal County Down golf course

Royal County Down Golf Club, located in County Down, Northern Ireland, is one of the top attractions for golf enthusiasts and visitors alike and a favourite of Rory McIlroy. Situated near Holywood, this prestigious course offers stunning views of Belfast Lough and the majestic Slieve Croob. 

Coastal town of Bangor

We stayed in Bangor for 6 months housesitting and fell in love with this up and coming little town. It’s a charming coastal town with plenty of places to visit. The town’s centre’s improvement boast a vibrant atmosphere, while nearby Holywood offers delightful cafes and boutiques. Visitors can explore the stunning Scrabo Tower and the beautiful Mount Stewart, both of which are top attractions in the area. For those seeking local flavor, the distillery and restaurants serve delicious food and drink. Just a short drive away, Ballynahinch and Banbridge add to the list of attractions in County Down.

C.S. Lewis and Northern Ireland

C.S. Lewis, the renowned author of “The Chronicles of Narnia,” has strong connections to County Down, particularly through his childhood experiences in Holywood. This charming town, located near Belfast Lough, is one of the top attractions in County Down and offers visitors various places to visit. Among these are the beautiful Mount Stewart and its gardens and Scrabo Tower, which provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. 

Hikes, Walks, and Natural Sites in Co Down

County Down is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with a variety of hikes, walks, and natural sites to explore:

Slieve Donard Hike  

The most popular hike in the Mournes, this trail takes you to the summit of Slieve Donard (850 meters). The views from the top are spectacular, stretching as far as the Isle of Man on a clear day.

The Mourne Wall Walk  

This challenging 22mile hike follows the historic Mourne Wall, which crosses 15 peaks. It’s a fullday adventure for experienced hikers.

Castlewellan Forest Park  

This park offers a range of walking trails, from gentle lakeside strolls to more challenging hikes. The Peace Maze, one of the largest permanent mazes in the world, is a fun attraction for all ages.

The Coastal Path from Newcastle to Dundrum  

This scenic walk follows the coastline, offering stunning views of the sea and the Mourne Mountains. It’s a relatively easy walk, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

Where to Stay in Co Down

County Down offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference:

Slieve Donard Resort & Spa (Newcastle)  

This luxurious hotel is located right on the coast, with stunning views of the Mourne Mountains and the Irish Sea. It’s the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring.

The Cuan (Strangford)  

A charming boutique hotel in the picturesque village of Strangford, The Cuan offers cozy rooms and a renowned restaurant serving locally sourced seafood. We had an amazing Sunday lunch here with some of the most tender beef I’ve ever had and the gravy was to die for. It also has a costume and memorabilia from Game of Thrones including one of the doors from the Dark Hedges trees.

Binian View Apartment (Kilkeel)  

Binnian View Apartment is situated in Kilkeel. With free private parking, the property is 33 km from The Cathedral of Saint Patrick and Saint Colman and 41 km from Down Cathedral. This apartment has 2 bedrooms, a kitchen with an oven and a toaster, a flat-screen TV, and a seating area.

Where to Eat in County Down

County Down is a food lover’s paradise, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Here are some top dining spots:

The Pier 36 (Donaghadee)  

Known for its seafood, this award winning restaurant offers stunning views of the harbor and a menu featuring locally caught fish and shellfish.

The Parson’s Nose (Hillsborough)  

This gastropub serves hearty, traditional Irish dishes with a modern twist. It’s a great spot for a casual meal.

Balloo House (Killinchy)  

Located near Strangford Lough, this restaurant offers a mix of Irish and international cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh, local produce.

 How to Get There from Dublin

County Down is easily accessible from Dublin, making it a perfect destination for a day trip or a longer stay. Here’s how to get there:

1. By Car  

The drive from Dublin to County Down takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your destination. Take the M1 motorway north, cross the border into Northern Ireland, and follow signs for Newry, Downpatrick, or Newcastle.

2. By Train  

Take a train from Dublin Connolly Station to Belfast Central, then transfer to a local train or bus to your destination in County Down. The journey takes around 2.5 hours.

3. By Bus  

Several bus companies, including Aircoach and Translink, operate services from Dublin to Belfast. From Belfast, you can take a local bus to towns in County Down.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About County Down

1. Where is County Down located?

County Down is one of the six counties of Northern Ireland, part of the United Kingdom. It is situated in the northeast of the island of Ireland, bordered by County Antrim to the north, the Irish Sea to the east, County Armagh to the west, and County Lough to the southwest.

2. What is the county town of County Down?

The county town is Downpatrick, a historic town known as the burial place of Saint Patrick.

3. What is County Down known for?

County Down is famous for its stunning landscapes, including the Mourne Mountains, Strangford Lough, and the Ards Peninsula. It is also rich in history, with sites like Castle Ward, Inch Abbey, and Saint Patrick’s Grave.

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4. What are the top attractions in County Down?

• Mourne Mountains – A hiker’s paradise with Slieve Donard as the highest peak.
• Strangford Lough – A scenic sea inlet perfect for wildlife spotting and water activities.
• Tollymore Forest Park – A beautiful woodland featured in Game of Thrones.
• Downpatrick – Home to Saint Patrick’s grave and the Saint Patrick Centre.
• Castle Ward – A historic estate with walking trails and Game of Thrones filming locations.

5. Is County Down good for outdoor activities?

Yes! County Down offers:

• Hiking in the Mournes
• Cycling along the National Cycle Network
• Kayaking and sailing in Strangford Lough
• Golfing at Royal County Down (one of the world’s top golf courses)

6. What towns and villages are worth visiting?

• Bangor – A coastal town with a marina and scenic walks.
• Newcastle – A seaside resort at the foot of the Mournes.
• Hillsborough – A charming village with a historic fort.
• Warrenpoint – A picturesque town on Carlingford Lough.

7. What is the historical significance of County Down?

County Down has deep historical roots, including:

• Early Christian sites linked to Saint Patrick.
• Norman castles and ancient monastic ruins.
• Connections to the Ulster Scots and Irish Gaelic heritage.

8. Was County Down featured in Game of Thrones?

Yes! Several filming locations are in County Down, including:

• Castle Ward (Winterfell)
• Tollymore Forest Park (Haunted Forest)
• Inch Abbey (Riverrun scenes)

9. How do I get to County Down?

• By Air: The nearest airports are Belfast International Airport (BFS) and George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD).
• By Road: Well-connected via the A1/M1 from Belfast and Dublin.
• By Ferry: Regular ferries from Scotland and England arrive in Belfast.

10. What is the best time to visit County Down?

The best time is May to September for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. However, the Mournes are beautiful year-round for hiking.

11. Are there good food and drink options in County Down?

Yes! The county is known for:

• Fresh seafood from Strangford Lough.
• Traditional Irish pubs with live music.
• Local breweries like Whitewater Brewery.

12. Is County Down family-friendly?

Absolutely! There are plenty of activities for families, including:

• Exploris Aquarium in Portaferry
• Montalto Estate walks and playgrounds
• Dundrum Castle for history lovers

County Down is a destination that truly has it all: ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re hiking in the Mournes, exploring historic sites, or savoring fresh seafood by the coast, you’ll find yourself falling in love with this enchanting corner of Northern Ireland. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to discover the magic of County Down!

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