Located near the Mourne Mountains in County Down, Castlewellan Forest Park is famous for its incredible National Arboretum – one of Europe's best collections of trees and shrubs, with over 20,000 specimens from across the globe. Started in the 1850s by the Annesley family, who imported rare conifers and Japanese maples, the arboretum is a living library of plants. Its significance was recognised in 2018 with an award from the International Dendrology Society. The park's towering Giant Sequoias, grown from seeds brought from California in the mid-19th century, are particularly famous – one has even grown 19 distinct trunks!
Beyond the trees, the park holds cultural importance. The Peace Maze, planted in 2001 using 6,000 local yew trees, represents Northern Ireland's journey towards peace. Designed by Beverly Lear, it was once the world's largest permanent hedge maze, and reaching the bell at its centre offers a moment of reflection. Around the maze, 7.5 miles of trails offer scenic walks through the rolling drumlin landscape with views of the Mournes and Castlewellan Lake. Mountain bikers have 27km of trails to explore, and families can enjoy the "Animal Wood" play area.
The park's beauty changes with the seasons: spring brings vibrant rhododendrons and azaleas, while autumn sets the maples and larches ablaze with colour. The Victorian-era Castlewellan Castle (now a conference venue) sits at the heart of the park, near the lake where you might see canoeists paddling past modern sculptures. Although the Annesley Walled Garden is currently closed for restoration, there are plenty of open spaces with picnic spots, a seasonal café, and trails accessible for mobility scooters. A visit here is a walk through horticultural history and a symbol of hope, all set against the backdrop of magnificent trees.
Getting There
Directly from Castletownbere harbour on the mainland.
Parking
Castlewellan Forest Park offers on-site parking at its main Lakeside Car Park, situated near the entrance to the trails and picnic areas. Parking fees apply to all vehicles, with prices varying by type: cars cost £5 per visit, motorbikes £3, minibuses (up to 24 seats) £15, and coaches (over 24 seats) £50. Seasonal permits are available for regular visitors, including an All-Park Car Permit (£60) or a Single Park Season Car Permit (£25). Payments can be made using all major credit or debit cards.
The main car park is a short walk from the forest entrance, with trails and facilities starting directly from this area. No time restrictions are in place for parking, though spaces can fill quickly during peak seasons. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a spot.
Accessibility parking options are not detailed in the available information, so it is recommended to contact the park in advance for specific requirements. During busy periods, nearby caravan parks (such as Castlewellan Caravan Park) may offer alternative parking for those staying overnight, though this requires prior booking.
Pricing
Admission Fees (per vehicle):
- Car (up to 7 seats): €5.68 (free for pedestrians/cyclists).
- Coach (over 24 seats): €39.73.
- Minibus (up to 24 seats): €14.76.
- Motorbike: €2.84.
Season Passes and Multi-Use Permits:
- Single-Park Permit:
- Residents of Newry, Mourne, and Down District Council: Free (one permit per household, valid until 31 March 2025).
- Non-residents: €28.38 for a single park.
- All-Park Permit:
- Residents: €28.38 for access to four parks (including Castlewellan).
- Non-residents: €68.10.
- Minibus/Coach Permits: Seasonal permits are available for frequent visitors (e.g., €68.10 for an All-Park minibus permit).
Family/Group Discounts:
Group discounts are available via permits for minibuses or coaches, reducing per-trip costs. For example, a minibus with a seasonal permit allows multiple entries at a lower cost per visit.
Free Admission Days:
Pedestrians and cyclists may access the park for free at all times.
Additional Costs:
- Caravan and Camping Fees:
- Main site pitches (electric): €34.96 per night.
- Grassed tent pitches (no electric): €27.80 per night.
- Drumbuck Wood pitches: €20.43 per night.
- Cancellation fees: €5 if canceled with seven days' notice.
- Bookings are online-only, with check-in at 2 p.m. and check-out by 1 p.m.
Payment Methods:
- Parking fees are typically paid on-site (cash/card).
- Seasonal permits and caravan bookings require advance payment (online for permits and caravan stays).
Note: Prices are subject to change, and permits must be obtained in advance. Residents of the district may qualify for free Single-Park permits, while non-residents should plan for seasonal permit costs. The Caravan Park operates seasonally (March 14 to September 1, 2024), with advance booking essential.
Nearby Attractions
Castlewellan Peace Maze
Located within Castlewellan Forest Park in County Down, the Castlewellan Peace Maze is more than just a garden feature; it's a powerful symbol of Northern Ireland's path towards peace. Built between 2...
Distance: 0.5 km
Castlewellan Castle
Castlewellan Castle is an impressive Scottish Baronial style building located within the large Castlewellan Forest Park in County Down. Built between 1856 and 1858 for the 4th Earl Annesley by the arc...
Distance: 0.8 km
Cooley Mountains & Slieve Foy
Discover the Cooley Peninsula in County Louth, where the rugged Cooley Mountains rise against the skyline. The highest point is Slieve Foy, standing proud at 589 meters (1,932 feet). Locals know it as...
Distance: 28.5 km