Explore Newry City

Nestled at the head of Carlingford Lough and framed by the Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion, Newry City brings together fascinating history, waterside walks, shopping, local food and warm hospitality.

One of Northern Ireland’s oldest settlements, Newry City’s rich past can be discovered through its historic buildings and waterways. Explore Bagenal’s Castle and Newry and Mourne Museum, follow the Newry Heritage Trail, stroll beside Newry Canal and the Clanrye River, or browse the city’s independent shops and shopping centres.

Straddling counties Armagh and Down and conveniently located between Belfast and Dublin, just 10 miles from the border with the Republic of Ireland, Newry City is an ideal destination for a day trip, weekend break or longer stay.

Top things to do in Newry City

Discover historic landmarks, walking trails, cultural experiences and family activities across Newry City.

Bagenal’s Castle & Newry and Mourne Museum

Step back in time at Bagenal’s Castle, Newry’s oldest surviving building and home to the Newry and Mourne Museum. Set within the carefully restored 16th-century castle, the museum features exhibitions on prehistoric artefacts, Newry's development as a busy merchant centre and life in the border region.  Visit the NMD Museums website.

Follow the Newry Heritage Trail

Discover Newry City's key landmarks and hidden corners along the Newry Heritage Trail and embark on a journey through the city’s past. Follow the full self-guided trail, which takes approximately one hour and 45 minutes, or choose the shorter 45-minute route. Both offer an enjoyable way to learn about the people, places and events that shaped Newry.

See Newry Town Hall

Built in 1893, Newry Town Hall sits uniquely on a bridge over the Clanrye River, symbolising the city’s connection between counties Down and Armagh.  Nearby, the Russian Trophy Cannon commemorates local people who fought in the Crimean War.

Newry Town Hall is currently closed while works are carried out. The Registration Department has temporarily relocated to Bagenal’s Castle. Visitors can still view the Town Hall’s historic exterior. Check the latest reopening and access information before visiting.

Visit the Pat Jennings Statue

Standing on Kildare Street opposite Newry Town Hall, the Pat Jennings Statue celebrates one of Northern Ireland’s greatest sporting figures. Unveiled by Pat Jennings in October 2023, this nearly three-metre-tall bronze sculpture was created by sculptor Andy Edwards in recognition of the Newry-born goalkeeper. Discover the story of the Pat Jennings statue.

Experience The Story of Newry Walking Tour

Join local storyteller Sinead Rice McAleavey for The Story of Newry Walking Tour, an engaging guided journey through the city's streets. Hear stories of Newry's famous and infamous residents as its Georgian and Victorian buildings, public spaces and waterways come to life. View The Story of Newry Walking Tour.

Explore Newry’s Waterways

Newry’s waterways have played an important part in the city’s development. Today, visitors can explore this heritage through canal-side walks, cycling routes and the historic surroundings of Albert Basin.

Newry Canal and Albert Basin

Walk or cycle beside Newry Canal, following the waterway through the city towards the surrounding countryside. 

At Albert Basin, discover Newry's maritime and industrial heritage while enjoying waterside walks and views across the basin.  The basin's sculptures and historic setting recall the dockworkers and industries that helped shape the city. Located beside The Quays Shopping Centre, Albert Basin connects Newry's industrial past with the city of today. Discover Newry Canal and Albert Basin.

Carlingford Lough Greenway

Beginning in Newry City, the Carlingford Lough Greenway offers a scenic route for walking and cycling beside the historic canal and towards Carlingford Lough. Choose a gentle section from the city or enjoy a longer journey through the surrounding landscape. Please be aware that parts of the greenway are closed to facilitate major works at Narrow Water Bridge. Diversion routes are in place, with local and emergency access maintained. Check the latest route, closure and access information.

Family Activities in Newry City

Families can discover Newry’s history at Newry and Mourne Museum, walk or cycle beside the canal, browse the city’s shops or enjoy the latest family films at Newry Omniplex Cinema in The Quays Shopping Centre. Discover family-friendly things to do in Newry City.

Food and Drink in Newry City

Discover independent cafés, welcoming restaurants and lively bars across Newry City. Stop for coffee or lunch around Hill Street and the Cathedral Quarter, or enjoy an evening meal after a day of sightseeing and shopping. Discover where to eat and drink in Newry City.

Shopping in Newry City

Newry is a popular shopping destination, combining independent businesses with familiar high-street names.

Browse local businesses around the Cathedral Quarter, Hill Street and the Creamery Quarter. For national retailers and high-street favourites, visit The Quays Shopping Centre and Buttercrane Shopping Centre. Explore shopping in Newry City.

What's on in Newry City

Newry hosts festivals, performances, exhibitions and family activities throughout the year. Popular annual events include Iúr Cinn Fleadh, Halloween in Newry City and Newry Christmas Markets.  Event programmes can change, so check what is happening during your visit. See what’s on in Newry City.

A city steeped in history and legend

Newry’s name comes from the Irish An tIúr, shortened from Iúr Cinn Trá, meaning "the yew tree at the head of the strand". According to legend, Saint Patrick planted a yew tree here during the fifth century, giving rise to the city’s name.

Newry City is an ideal starting point for exploring the wider Mourne Gullion Strangford destination. Travel into the Mourne Mountains for walking, mountain scenery and outdoor adventures, or discover the ancient monuments and scenic landscapes of the Ring of Gullion. Carlingford Lough is also within easy reach, offering beautiful waterside scenery and opportunities for walking and cycling.

A day in Newry City

Begin your day at Bagenal’s Castle and Newry and Mourne Museum before following part of the Newry Heritage Trail or joining The Story of Newry Walking Tour through the city centre.

Stop for coffee or lunch around Hill Street or the Cathedral Quarter, then explore Newry’s shops and historic streets. In the afternoon, walk beside Newry Canal towards Albert Basin or enjoy part of the Carlingford Lough Greenway.

Finish your visit with dinner in the city or check the local events programme for evening entertainment.

Places to stay in and around Newry

Extend your visit with a stay in Newry or the surrounding countryside. Choose accommodation within easy reach of the city’s heritage attractions, restaurants, shopping centres and walking routes, while enjoying convenient access to the wider landscapes of Mourne Gullion Strangford.

Plan your trip to Newry City

Find practical travel information, places to stay, upcoming events and more ideas for making the most of your visit to Newry City. 

Getting to Newry City

Newry City is easy to reach by road, rail and bus, with connections to Belfast, Dublin and surrounding towns. Newry Bus Centre provides services to Belfast, Dublin, Dublin Airport and nearby towns including Warrenpoint. Newry Train Station is served by the Belfast to Dublin Enterprise rail service.

By road, Newry is located just off the A1 dual carriageway. Car hire is available locally, with parking options across the city. Always check current timetables and travel conditions before setting out. How to get to Newry City.

Frequently asked questions about Newry City

Is Newry worth visiting?

Yes, Newry is well worth visiting. Compact, welcoming and full of character, the city combines historic attractions, canal-side walks, shopping and local food in a spectacular setting between the Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion.

What are the best things to do in Newry?

Popular things to do include visiting Bagenal’s Castle and Newry and Mourne Museum, following the Newry Heritage Trail, join The Story of Newry Walking Tour, exploring Albert Basin and walking or cycling The Carlingford Lough Greenway beside Newry Canal.

How long should I spend in Newry?

A full day gives you time to explore Newry’s central attractions, shops and places to eat. A weekend or longer stay allows you to discover more of the city and the surrounding landscapes.

Is Newry City easy to explore on foot?

Many of Newry’s central attractions, shops, cafés and historic sites are within walking distance. Visitors should check individual route and accessibility information before setting out.

Can I visit Newry as a day trip?

Yes. Newry is well connected to Belfast and Dublin by road, rail and bus, making it a convenient choice for a day trip. Check current timetables before travelling.

What can families do in Newry?

Families can visit Newry and Mourne Museum, explore part of the heritage trail, walk or cycle beside the canal, browse the city’s shops or enjoy a family film at Newry Omniplex.