Blog (Outdoors) - Visit Mourne Gullion Strangford

Newcastle’s much-loved "Bendy Tree" has been crowned UK Tree of the Year 2026. It is the first tree from Northern Ireland to win the Woodland Trust competition and a memorable landmark to discover in Mourne Gullion Strangford.

Think it is time to book a much-needed short break? Enjoy a staycation in the Ring of Gullion, it may be the perfect destination for your romantic getaway. Mourne Gullion Strangford is packed with places just perfect for quality time together. 

As autumn sweeps across the landscapes of  Mourne Gullion Strangford everything transforms into a tapestry of rich reds, golds and oranges. This area is known for its breathtaking beauty year round, but during Autumn, it offers an especially stunning spectacle of vibrant foliage and scenery.

Anglers get your bait, flies and hooks at the ready and plan your perfect fishing trip. We are spoilt for choice here in the Mourne Gullion Strangford for fishing destinations. Our beautiful region is abundant in peaceful lakes, challenging rivers and wonderful coastal areas, perfect for your ideal fishing trip, whether it is coarse, game, or even sea fishing in beautiful fishing villages with plenty of history and impressive trawlers! We are here to tell you all about the best fishing spots in the area.

Don’t get hangry when you’re hiking, walking or having fun - grab some grub and pack a picnic!

At last, the weather is starting to turn in our favour and the sun has got his hat on!  We will be spending more time outdoors and what could be better than a beautifully prepared picnic to keep us well fed and watered on our day out?  Don’t feel like making your own?  Why not have a picnic prepared for you? 

The Mourne Rambler is a scenic circular bus service, operated by Translink, that begins and ends at Newcastle Bus Station during July and August. It weaves its way through the breathtaking heart of the Mourne Mountains. Along the route, it stops at key locations that provide easy access to popular walking trails, peaceful reservoirs, picturesque valleys, and charming villages. Designed with walkers, families, and day-trippers in mind, the service offers a relaxed and flexible way to explore this stunning landscape at your own pace.

The Mourne Mountains are renowned for their breathtaking landscapes, vibrant outdoor lifestyle, and endless opportunities for adventure in Northern Ireland. For those seeking an unforgettable experience, the mountain bike trail centres in the Mournes offer the perfect way to explore scenic views, embrace the region’s active culture, and fuel your sense of adventure.

The Mourne Mountains, Ring of Gullion and Strangford Lough areas are world famous for their outstanding scenery, history, culture and walks. One of the most rewarding ways to discover their beauty, stories and hidden gems is alongside one of our experienced and fully qualified Tour Guides.

Special subjects include: Mourne Mountains, Saint Patrick's Country, Ring of Gullion, Strangford Lough, Local History, Granite Industry, Food & Drink.

Mourne Gullion Strangford is a beautiful, fun-filled area that offers plenty of family-friendly activities for children under five. Whether you're looking for indoor activities to avoid bad weather, or outdoor adventures that let little ones explore nature, Mourne Gullion Strangford has it all.

Planning half-term trips in Northern Ireland? Look no further than Mourne Gullion Strangford, a destination packed with breathtaking landscapes, family-friendly attractions, and unforgettable outdoor adventures. From forest parks and scenic walking trails to coastal views, historic sites, and hands-on activities for all ages, this region is the perfect place to escape the everyday and make the most of your time off.

Don’t let the winter temperatures and dark nights get you down, why not get off the sofa and get moving. 

We all love switching on the TV after a long day and losing ourselves in a favourite series or movie — but why just watch it when you can live it? Mourne Gullion Strangford has played a starring role in world-famous productions like Game of Thrones®, filmed in iconic locations such as Tollymore Forest Park, Castle Ward, and Inch Abbey. And that’s just the beginning. Instead of watching from the sofa, come walk the very landscapes where these epic stories were brought to life and see the magic of our area of outstanding natural beauty unfold right before your eyes.