Forest Park View, Castlewellan BT31 9BU
Castlewellan Forest Park
Castlewellan Forest Park is located in the town of Castlewellan in County Down, Northern Ireland. The park covers some 460 hectares, including woodland and a 40 hectare lake. It was opened to the public in 1967 after the Forest Service of the Department of Agriculture purchased the land from the Annesley family.
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About
Castlewellan Forest Park is a beautiful and enchanting destination located in Northern Ireland. It is a popular tourist spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park is nestled in the Mourne Mountains and offers a range of activities, from hiking and mountain biking to fishing and camping.
One of the park's main attractions is the Castlewellan Lake, which is surrounded by lush green forests and picturesque scenery. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing walk around the lake or rent a boat to explore its waters. The lake is also a popular spot for fishing, with a variety of fish species available, including rainbow trout and brown trout.
For those who enjoy hiking, Castlewellan Forest Park offers a variety of trails that cater to different levels of fitness and ability. The Castlewellan Lake Trail is a popular option for a leisurely walk, while the more adventurous can try the Slievenaslat Trail, which takes hikers up to the summit of Slievenaslat Mountain for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Another popular activity in the park is mountain biking. Castlewellan has a range of trails, including the purpose-built mountain bike trail, which offers a thrilling experience for all levels of bikers. The trails wind through the forest, with a variety of technical challenges and obstacles to test riders' skills.
For families with young children, the park has a play area and a maze, providing fun and entertainment for all ages. The Peace Maze, located in the park, is a must-visit attraction. It is one of the largest permanent hedge mazes in the world and is a fun challenge for visitors to navigate their way through.
For those who want to stay overnight, Castlewellan Forest Park has a variety of camping options. Visitors can choose from basic camping sites to more luxurious options, such as glamping pods and self-catering accommodation. There are also several picnic areas within the park, providing the perfect spot for a family lunch or a romantic picnic.
Castlewellan Forest Park is a popular destination for day trips or weekend getaways, with its natural beauty and abundance of activities. The park is open year-round, with different attractions and events happening throughout the year. Visitors can check the park's website for up-to-date information on events and activities.
Overall, Castlewellan Forest Park is a perfect destination for those seeking outdoor adventure and a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its breathtaking scenery, diverse activities, and variety of accommodations make it a must-visit for any tourist visiting Northern Ireland.
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Things to do nearby
Castlewellan Forest Park is a stunning destination in County Down, Northern Ireland, that offers visitors a range of outdoor activities and breathtaking natural scenery. From hiking and mountain biking to fishing and horse riding, there are plenty of things to see and do in this picturesque park. Here are some places and activities that you should not miss when visiting Castlewellan Forest Park.
1. Castlewellan Lake: This beautiful lake is located at the heart of Castlewellan Forest Park and is surrounded by majestic trees and mountains. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake or take a boat ride to explore its stunning surroundings.
2. Peace Maze: Located within Castlewellan Forest Park, Peace Maze is one of the world's largest permanent hedge mazes. It was planted in 2000 to celebrate the peace process in Northern Ireland and is a great place for families to explore and have fun.
3. Castlewellan Arboretum: This stunning arboretum is home to a range of trees from around the world and is a must-visit for nature lovers. The arboretum is home to over 40 different species of trees, including rare and exotic varieties.
4. Mountain Biking: Castlewellan Forest Park is a popular destination for mountain bikers, with a range of trails to suit all abilities. The trails range from easy family-friendly routes to more challenging downhill tracks for experienced riders.
5. Horse Riding: Castlewellan Forest Park offers a range of horse riding experiences, including pony treks for children and guided horse rides for adults. The park is home to a stable of well-trained horses that are suitable for riders of all levels.
6. Fishing: Castlewellan Lake is stocked with trout and is a popular destination for anglers. Visitors can purchase a fishing permit from the park office and try their luck catching some of the lake's resident fish.
7. Castlewellan Castle: This stunning castle is located within the park and is available for weddings and events. Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle and learn about its fascinating history.
8. Castlewellan Town: The town of Castlewellan is located just a short walk from the park and offers visitors a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants. The town is also home to a historic church and a range of other attractions.
In conclusion, Castlewellan Forest Park is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Northern Ireland. With its stunning natural scenery, range of outdoor activities, and rich history, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're looking for a relaxing stroll around the lake or an adrenaline-fueled mountain bike ride, Castlewellan Forest Park has it all. So why not plan a trip today and experience this stunning destination for yourself?
Opening Hours
| Tuesday | 9 am–5 pm |
|---|---|
| Wednesday | 9 am–5 pm |
| Thursday | 9 am–5 pm |
| Friday | 9 am–5 pm |
| Saturday | 9 am–5 pm |
| Sunday | 9 am–5 pm |
| Monday | 9 am–5 pm |