Father’s Day is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with an unforgettable day out in Mourne Gullion Strangford? Whether you're planning something adventurous, scenic, or relaxing, this stunning destination in Northern Ireland has everything you need to make dads, grandads, and father figures feel truly appreciated. From coastal walks to hearty meals and unique experiences, here are some fantastic ways to spend Father’s Day in the Mourne Gullion Strangford region.
A Day at the Races in Downpatrick
Make Father’s Day unforgettable at Downpatrick Racecourse with thrilling live horse racing and keep the celebrations going with fantastic live music, creating a lively and social setting perfect for spending quality time together.
Dress ‘smart casual’ and join in the fun on themed race days. Whether you’re there for the sport, the music or simply to enjoy a great day out with Dad, Downpatrick Racecourse offers a memorable way to celebrate Dad.
Downpatrick & Co Down Railway
Step back in time this Father’s Day with a unique journey on the Downpatrick and County Down Railway, Ireland’s only full-sized heritage railway. Travel through the scenic countryside of County Down aboard vintage steam or diesel trains, crossing the River Quoile and arriving at the historic ruins of Inch Abbey. You can even grab refreshments in a charming 1950s buffet carriage.
Whether you’re reliving the golden age of rail or simply enjoying a memorable day out together it’s a Father’s Day experience full of charm, history and great moments.
Raise a Glass with a Whiskey or Chocolate Tour
Cheers to Dad with a tasting tour! Take him on a journey through the rich heritage of local distilleries, where he can sample craft whiskeys, meet the makers, and learn the secrets behind every sip. Or sample the food and drink of the region. It’s a great way to spend quality time together – and maybe even find his new favourite bottle or restaurant!
- Shortcross Whiskey Tour & Tasting, Crossgar
- Killowen Distillery Tour & Tasting, Rostrevor
- Two Stacks Whiskey Tour, Newry
- Whitewater Brewery, Castlewellan
- Master Craft Chocolate Experience, Kilkeel
Get Outdoors and Embrace Adventure
If your dad loves the great outdoors, why not make a day of it? Explore one of the many scenic forest parks dotted around Mourne Mountains, Ring of Gullion and Strangford Lough.
- Castlewellan Forest Park
- Delamont Country Park, Killyleagh
- Kilbroney Forest Park, Rostrevor
- Slieve Gullion Forest Park, Newry
Pamper Him with a Great Meal (or a Cruise!)
Treat Dad to a delicious meal at one of the area’s outstanding local restaurants, pubs, or cafés. Think hearty roasts, fresh seafood, and a cosy atmosphere – the perfect way to say thank you. For something a little different, why not book a scenic cruise on Carlingford Lough? He can sit back, relax, and take in the breathtaking views from the water – an experience he’ll remember for years to come.
Evening at Newcastle Community Cinema
Celebrate Father’s at Newcastle Community Cinema, it's more than a cinema, it’s a vibrant community hub in the heart of the town.
Enjoy a classic film or modern movie with Dad, it’s the perfect place to relax, connect, and make the day feel special. Check out their programme for live music, comedy nights, boxing, cabaret and amateur performances, there’s always something happening on its full sized stage.
Whether it’s a relaxed outing or an evening of entertainment, Newcastle Community Cinema offers a unique, welcoming space to celebrate together.
Try Something New Together
Father’s Day is the perfect excuse to tick something off the bucket list. How about trying a new activity together? Whether it’s a beginner’s kayaking lesson, hiring electric bikes for a countryside adventure, a guided hiking tour, or even taking advange of the region's golf pass, there’s no shortage of ways to make new memories together in Mourne Gullion Strangford.
Father’s Day Spa & Wellness Escapes
Treat Dad to a luxury spa break in Mourne Gullion Strangford, we've lots to choose from, maybe try the Slieve Donard Hotel, Newcastle, Killeavy Castle Estate, Killeavy, Tullymurry House, Newry or The Lodge at Quarterland Bay, Killinchy there's plenty of choice for relaxation and quality time together.
Make This Father’s Day One to Remember in Mourne Gullion Strangford
From thrilling adventures to peaceful moments and everything in between, Mourne Gullion Strangford offers so many ways to treat your dad this Father’s Day. Better yet, many of these experiences are great for the whole family – making it a day everyone will enjoy!
Check out What's On and other exciting things to do for the rest of the year.
Start planning your Father’s Day adventure today and have a great day out in Mourne Gullion Strangford.
Art, craft and history blend together at Shortcross Distillery, to create an unforgettable experience on the beautiful grounds of Rademon Estate. Join founders Fiona and David to learn about their award-winning gin, which also happens to be Northern Ireland’s first craft gin.
NearyNogs is a small family-run business that produces some of Northern Ireland’s finest, most irresistible chocolate, and they’re ready to welcome you in and show you how it’s made.
The village has a number of beautiful walks through Rostrevor Forest and Kilbroney Park. Rostrevor is an area of historical interest and has lots of associated folklore. On the slopes of Slieve Martin in Kilbroney Park you will find the ‘Big Stone’. St Bronagh’s 6th Century Church and Bell and Giant Murphy’s Grave are also located in the village.
Escape your busy life with a break in the wonderful Mourne Mountains or Carlingford Lough, we can help you relax and recharge the batteries.
Epic adventures are on offer all year round at Life Adventure Centre. Their extensive range of activities include mountain biking, stand-up paddleboarding, wet bouldering, rock climbing, sit on top kayaking, coasteering, electric biking and open canoeing - something for everyone!
Castlewellan Forest Park is located on Forest Park View, Castlewellan, County Down, in a dramatic setting of mountains and sea. Castlewellan Forest Park has one of the most outstanding tree and shrub collections in Europe. The beauty, vigour and perfect shape of the trees in the National Arboretum attract tree enthusiasts from around the world.
Kilbroney Park features riverside walks and an arboretum. There is a two-mile forest drive which showcases panoramic views over Carlingford Lough. There is also a Play Park with children's play area and tennis courts, an Information area and a café all on site.
A two and a half hour sunset passenger cruise which offers a rare opportunity to enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of Carlingford Lough and the iconic Haulbowline Lighthouse, guarding the entrance to the Lough.
Slieve Gullion Forest Park offers the unmissable opportunity to experience tranquil woodland trails, stunning views across the Ring of Gullion, Mourne Mountains, Cooley Peninsula and Armagh Drumlins and is a top class facility for walkers and families.
Welcome to Clearsky Adventure Centre located at Old Castle Ward Demesne on the shoreline of Strangford Lough
Experience the beauty and adventure that hides over every peak and rolling hill in the Mournes with one of Mourne Mountain Adventures’ guided hikes. We provide you with the perfect way to gain an in-depth insight into the region’s incredible flora and fauna, history and geography and breathtaking views.
Join us for a look around our brewery, see how we make some of our award winning brews, then head back to the Tap House where you can try some ales and hear some tales.
Travel back to the past with real vintage steam trains through St. Patrick's Country, over the River Quoile and under the graceful Down Cathedral to peaceful ruins of Inch Abbey.
Based in St Mary's Hall, Main Street, Newcastle, NCC specialise in providing the greater community with a varied programme of quality cinematic entertainment, showing movies for adults and children alike on a monthly basis.
