Blog

You could spend a lifetime discovering the treasures of our region, and of course the people who are lucky enough to live and work here do just that every day. There is so much to enjoy and see in this wee corner of the world that it can be really tough to choose. We thought we might make it a little easier for you with a few must-see and must-do experiences for you while you’re here.

The plight of pollinators is well known. Loss of habitat for nesting and foraging has meant there has been a dramatic decline in many of our much-loved species.

Facilitated through the education programme a group of 12 children aged 6-11 completed the John Muir Award (Discovery level). The children involved were dedicated to fulfilling the main four objectives, Discover, Explore, Conserve and Share.

Helen Mark from BBC Radio Ulster Gardener’s Corner, was a very welcome visitor to the Annesley Walled Garden in October. She recorded interviews for two shows which aired on the 21 and 28 October 2023.

Killeavy Castle Is Named Hotel of the Year  

The four star, Killeavy Castle Estate, nestled in the heart of County Armagh has been named AA Hotel of the Year Northern Ireland at the prestigious AA Hospitality Awards 2023. 

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. 

The Strangford Lough area is very picturesque and offers lots for families to do and see. Strangford is a small village at the mouth of Strangford Lough, which is the UK’s largest sea lough. The 10 minute ferry links the villages of Strangford and Portaferry and is an exciting experience for young and old as you take in the stunning scenery of this Marine Nature Reserve and try to spot seals, seabirds and jellyfish as the tide rushes past.

Ignite your summer adventures and discover Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark alongside 57 other unique UNESCO sites in the UK and crown dependencies thanks to a newly illustrated map, now available to download for free from the UK National Commission for UNESCO.

The Mourne Mountains, Ring of Gullion and Strangford areas are world famous for their outstanding scenery, history and walks. One of the best ways to experience the magic and majesty is with one of our qualified Tour Guides.

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

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 Mountains and Ring of Gullion 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.

Located in the southeast corner of Northern Ireland is the Mourne, Gullion, Strangford geopark.  The area is culturally rich and champions sustainable and local tourism experiences.

Mourne, Gullion and Strangford are areas where the landscape is rich and fertile allowing food to be grown and produced locally.  The coastal waters surrounding the region is home to the richest fishing waters in Ireland.  Our rivers and lakes are also home to some of the best freshwater catches.

The sun is finally out, and the birds are singing so if you’re looking for a nature filled getaway then look no further than the Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion destination. This stunning area makes for an unforgettable camping experience, with plenty of outdoor activities, gorgeous scenery, and serene campsites.