Castlewellan Castle stands as a striking example of Scottish Baronial architecture, nestled within the expansive Castlewellan Forest Park in County Down. Built between 1856 and 1858 for the 4th Earl Annesley by renowned architect William Burn, the castle overlooks the shimmering waters of Castlewellan Lake. Its foundations rest on the site of an ancient church, blending historical reverence with grand Victorian design. Once the heart of the Annesley family’s estate, it now serves as a Christian conference center, reflecting its ongoing cultural role beyond its original purpose.
The castle’s significance is deeply intertwined with the evolution of the surrounding National Arboretum, established in 1740. This living collection of over 1,800 tree species—spanning continents from Asia to the Americas—was meticulously cultivated by generations of the Annesley family. Notable highlights include the Giant Sequoia trees planted in the 1850s, one of which has astonishingly grown 19 separate trunks, and the award-winning ‘Castlewellan Gold’ Leyland cypress, a cultivar developed onsite. The arboretum’s dendrological importance was internationally recognized in 2018 with a plaque from the International Dendrology Society, underscoring its status as a global botanical treasure.
Visitors to the castle grounds experience a blend of history and natural beauty, even as the castle itself remains largely inaccessible to the public. The adjacent Peace Maze, constructed in 2000, offers a labyrinth of 6,000 yew trees symbolizing Northern Ireland’s journey toward reconciliation. Walking trails wind through restored gardens and woodlands, such as the Moorish Tower Walk, leading to remnants of the estate’s former grandeur. The best times to visit coincide with the arboretum’s seasonal transformations: spring blooms, autumnal foliage, or the quiet majesty of winter, when the sequoias stand as timeless sentinels.
Unique to Castlewellan is its dual legacy as both a historic landmark and a living laboratory of horticultural innovation. The 2021 restoration project, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, promises to further illuminate its layered past. From its 18th-century tree plantings to its role in modern community initiatives, the castle and its park encapsulate centuries of human and natural history, inviting exploration while preserving an enduring connection to the land.
Getting There
By Car
From Belfast, take the A24 south through Ballynahinch and Seaforde, then follow the A25 from Clough into Castlewellan. From Dublin, head north on the M1 to Newry, exit onto the A1 towards Downpatrick, then follow the A28 and A25 west to Castlewellan. The journey from Dublin takes approximately 2–2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Public Transportation
Translink operates regular bus services to Castlewellan:
- Route 467 runs hourly between Newcastle and Rostrevor, passing through Castlewellan (Monday–Saturday).
- Route 458 connects Banbridge and Newcastle via Castlewellan every two hours (Monday–Saturday).
Travelers from Belfast can take routes 401/402 to Bangor, then transfer to a connecting bus. Those coming from Dublin will need to cross the border and transfer to a local service at the nearest border stop. Use Translink’s “Go Henry” app or website to plan routes and purchase tickets.
Local Access
The castle and forest park are easily explored on foot or by bicycle, with free access for pedestrians and cyclists.
Historical Note
While Castlewellan once had a railway station (closed since 1955), no train services currently operate to the area. Ferry travel is not required, as the location is accessible by road.
For the most up-to-date schedules and route details, consult Translink’s online resources or contact Castlewellan Forest Park directly via +44 (0)28 4377 8664 (use 048 instead of 028 when calling from the Republic of Ireland).
Parking
Visitors to Castlewellan Castle can enjoy convenient on-site parking located within Castlewellan Forest Park. The main car park charges £5 per vehicle for entry, with additional options including an All-Park Car Permit (£60) for multi-visit use, a Single Park Season Car Permit (£25), and discounted rates for motorbikes (£3), minibuses (£15–£65), and coaches (£50). Payments are accepted via all major credit and debit cards.
The car park includes designated disability parking spaces to ensure accessibility. From the parking area, the castle entrance is a short, scenic walk of approximately 1–3 minutes along well-maintained paths. Picnic tables and a coffee cart operate adjacent to the car park, offering convenient refreshments during your visit.
No time restrictions are in place, and parking remains free for pedestrians and cyclists accessing the park directly. While no specific peak-time alternatives are outlined, arriving early during busy periods may help secure a space. The on-site parking is the primary option, with no nearby street or alternative lots mentioned.
Pricing
For visitors planning a trip to the castle, note that it is situated within Castlewellan Forest Park, where certain access and parking fees apply:
- Car Parking: €4.61 (approx. £5).
- All-Park Car Permit: €55.32 (approx. £60) for unrestricted access.
- Minibus (8–24 seats): €13.83 (approx. £15) parking fee.
- Coach (over 24 seats): €45.90 (approx. £50) parking fee.
- Motorbike: €2.77 (approx. £3) parking fee.
- Single Park Season Car Permit: €23.05 (approx. £25) for seasonal visitors.
While no free admission days or special exhibits are currently listed, refunds for cancellations at the adjacent campsite (not the castle) incur a €4.61 (£5) administration fee if processed with seven or more days’ notice. Payment methods for castle-related bookings are not specified; however, standard practices for the region typically accept major credit cards and cash. Always confirm pricing and availability directly with the castle prior to your visit.
Nearby Attractions
Castlewellan Peace Maze
Nestled within the serene landscapes of Castlewellan Forest Park in County Down, the Castlewellan Peace Maze stands as both a marvel of horticultural design and a poignant symbol of Northern Ireland’s...
Distance: 0.3 km
Castlewellan Forest Park
Nestled in the Mourne Mountains of County Down, Castlewellan Forest Park is a living testament to botanical grandeur and cultural symbolism. Renowned for its National Arboretum—one of Europe’s premier...
Distance: 0.8 km