Father's day is just around the corner, making it the perfect opportunity to treat the special father figures in your life to a memorable day out in the beautiful Mourne Gullion Strangford region. Whether he loves adventure, breathtaking scenery, great food or simply spending quality time with family, this stunning corner of Northern Ireland offers something for everyone. From spectacular coastal walks and hearty local cuisine to unique experiences and hidden gems, here are some inspiring ways to make this Father's Day one to remember.
A Day at the Races in Downpatrick
Celebrate Father's Day a little early with a trip to Downpatrick Racecourse on June 13 and 14. Enjoy the excitement of live horse racing, fantastic live music and a lively atmosphere that makes for a great day out with Dad.
Whethers he's a racing fan or simply enjoys good entertainment at one of Northern Ireland's most unique sporting events. Dress 'smart casual' and join in the fun on themed race days.
Whiskey, Beer or Chocolate Experience
Treat Dad to a memorable tasting experience and discover the region’s rich food and drink heritage together. Visit local distilleries where he can sample award-winning spirits, meet the makers, and learn about the craftsmanship behind every bottle. For those with a sweet tooth, a trip to NearyNógs, Ireland’s first bean-to-bar craft chocolate maker, offers the chance to see how their artisan chocolate is created and enjoy a delicious tasting along the way.
You can also savour the flavours of the region with a meal at one of its many exceptional restaurants and cafés. Whether it’s a relaxed lunch, a special dinner, or an indulgent tasting tour, it’s the perfect way to spend quality time together—and you might even help Dad discover a new favourite tipple or dining spot.
Get Outdoors and Embrace Adventure
If Dad loves the great outdoors, Father's Day is the perfect excuse to head outside and explore together. From peaceful lakeside strolls, and sweeping mountain trails to ancient woodlands and open parkland, the Mourne Gullion Strangford region is home to some of Northern Ireland's most speactacular natural scenery.
Pack a picnic, lace up your walking boots and enjoy quality time in one of these stunning outdoor spaces:
Pamper Him with a Great Meal
Father's Day is the perfect excuse to gather around the table and enjoy some exceptional local food. Across the Mourne Gullion Strangford region, you'll find a fantastic selection of restuarants, cafés and eateries serving everything from fresh local produce to hearty family favourites.
For a truly special experience, head to Kilmorey Arms Hotel for a traditional Sunday lunch, or visit Kilkeel Golf Club and enjoy stunning coastal views alongside delicious dining.
For something extra special, Killeavy Castle Estate invities you to savour the flavours of the region with its popular 'Taste the Estate' dining experience, showcasing the finest locally sourced ingredients. Or why not treat Dad to a comforting 'Slow Roast Sunday', where expertly prepared roast dishes and all the trimmings make for the ultimate Father's Day feast.
Some great options to explore include:
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Cosy country pubs serving hearty local favourites
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Seafront restaurants around Newcastle and Strangford
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Artisan cafés in Rostrevor and Warrenpoint
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Picnic spots in the Mourne Mountains or Ring of Gullion
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Harbour-side dining with fresh local seafood
The Cuan Gift Voucher offers the gift of choice, inviting guests to dine, stay and savour the charm of the coast at their leisure. From exceptional dining experiences to relaxing overnight escapes, including specially curated bedroom packages, it's the perfect way to enjoy a little more time away.
Looking for a more refined dining experience?
Father's Day is the perfect opportunity to go beyond the ordinary and treat Dad to something truly special with a refined dining experience. Across the Mourne Gullion Strangford region, you'll find unforgettable culinary events designed to impress, from the flavours of the Savour & Sip Warrenpoint, to the immersive and creative dining of Wild Table by Guy Ritchie and the exclusive culinary journey of Secret Dining with Paul Cunningham. Each experience offers something unique, blending exceptional local produce, expert craftsmanship and memorable settings. It's the ideal way to celebrate Dad with an unforgettable meal and a Father's Day he'll truly savour.
Celebrate Father's with Classic Cars
If Dad is a motoring enthusiast, Father's Day weekend offers the perfect oppourtunity to enjoy some fantastic automotive events across the region. Admire an impressive display of vintage, classic and modern vehicles at Montalto Estate Annual Car show, where car lovers can explore beautifully maintained models and meet fellow enthusiasts. You can also head to the Kilbroney Vintage Car Show, a popular event showcasing a remarkable collection of classic cars, motorcylces and heritage vehicles against the stunning backdrop of Rostrevor. Whether Dad is a lifelong collector of simply enjoys a trip down memory lane, these events promise a great day out for the whole family.
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.
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If your dad enjoys spending time on the fairways, a Heart of Down Golf Pass could be the perfect Father's Day gift. Offering access to some of County Down's finest golf courses, these flexible passes allow golfers to create their own ideal golfing experience from a selection of top-quality courses across the region. Whether he's planning a golf getaway or simply looking to tee off somewhere new, it's a gift he'll truly appreciate. To book a Heart of Down Golf Pass, contact 18 Ireland at hello@18ireland.com.
Father’s Day Spa & Wellness Escapes
This Father's Day, give Dad the gift of rest and relaxation with a luxurious spa escape in the Mourne Gullion Strangford region. From calming coastal retreats to elegant country estates, there's a perfect place to unwind and recharge together. Indulge in a stay at the iconic Slieve Donard Hotel, enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Killeavy Castle Estate, relax at the charming Tullymurry House or take in the serene setting of The Lodge at Quarterlands Bay.
With a range of spa treatments, peaceful surroundings and time to truly switch off, these escapes offer the perfect way to slow down, reconnect and celebrate Dad in style.
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.
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.
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.
The Cuan is situated on the shores of Strangford Lough, on the Village Green in the beautiful tranquil village of Strangford. The Cuan is the perfect setting for a mid-week break, weekend getaway or an activity led holiday with the family.
Nestled between the Mourne Mountains and the Irish sea along the scenic Mourne Coast sits Ireland's first bean to bar artisan chocolate making studio with a GIANT heart and story.
Nestled in the breathtaking County Down countryside, Montalto Estate is an enchanting 18th-century Georgian estate offering a five-star visitor attraction, bespoke weddings and events, a Georgian mansion for private hire, and over 8km of beautifully curated trails and gardens, including a secluded private walled garden. Visitors can enjoy seasonal walks through the estate, relax in The Café at Montalto, browse the estate shop, and make use of the dedicated dog park, creating a welcoming destination for families, walkers and garden lovers alike.
