Overview
The forest above Rostrevor is one of the places that fed C.S. Lewis’s Narnia, and the village makes the most of it. It sits where the Mourne Mountains drop to the northern shore of Carlingford Lough, and it’s long been called the “Riviera of the North”. Kilbroney Park has the walks, the giant Cloughmore Stone above it, and a mountain-bike trail network that includes downhill runs. Start in the village or continue to Kilbroney Park on Shore Road; the park guide lists the Narnia Trail, tree trail and play areas around the lower park. One thing to know before you go: the park is free on foot or by bicycle, but vehicle parking charges apply (more below).
History and background
The name Rostrevor joins the Irish ros, a wooded headland, to the surname of Sir Edward Trevor, a Welsh settler who arrived in the early 17th century. Before the Trevors renamed it, the area was Caisleán Ruaidhrí (Castle Rory), after a Magennis lord of Iveagh.
The village wears its legends openly. A 9th-century high cross stands in the local cemetery; the ancient bell of St Bronach was once hidden in an oak tree; and the granite Ross Monument, an obelisk raised in 1826, remembers Major General Robert Ross, who commanded the British force that burned Washington in the War of 1812. Folklore is still a live part of the place, most of all in the Fairy Glen and in the story of the Cloughmore Stone, which local myth says the giant Finn McCool hurled across the lough.
What to see and do
Kilbroney Park and the Cloughmore Stone
Kilbroney Park, the former estate of the Ross family, is the heart of the outdoors here, split between lower parkland and upper forest trails. Highlights:
- Cloughmore Stone: a granite boulder perched high above the village on Slieve Martin. Geologists call it a glacial erratic; legend says Finn McCool threw it from the Cooley Mountains. Walk around it seven times, they say, for good luck. The signed walk to the stone climbs steeply from the upper car park. The approach is uneven and can be affected by forestry work, so check the route and access notices before setting out.
- Kodak Corner: a belvedere just beyond the stone, with the view across Carlingford Lough to the sea.
- Narnia Trail: a short family walk that begins by stepping through a wooden wardrobe, with sculptures by Irish artist Maurice Harron along the way, among them Aslan, the White Witch and Mr Tumnus.
- Tree Trail: a loop through rare specimen trees, including the award-winning “Old Homer” holm oak.
- Amenities: the park guide lists play areas and other facilities around the lower park.
Fairy Glen Walk
The Fairy Glen follows the Kilbroney River from the bridge at the park entrance, threading riverside meadow, woodland and open parkland. It’s popular with walkers who come for the shaded, quiet stretch that earned the name, and it suits a gentle stroll as much as a brisk walk.
Mountain biking
Rostrevor Forest holds an extensive trail network, including downhill trails, alongside intermediate routes and harder lines. The dedicated mountain-bike trails include technical descents. Check the park guide for current trail status, grades and uplift details before you ride.
Cultural and historical highlights
- Fiddler’s Green International Festival: a multi-day event of concerts, workshops, traditional dances and art exhibitions across the village. Check the festival’s own listings for current dates.
- Ross Monument: the 1826 granite obelisk on Shore Road, to General Robert Ross.
- Kilfeaghan Dolmen: a Neolithic portal tomb on the Kilkeel road, under a massive capstone.
Practical information
| Facility | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening hours (Kilbroney Park) | The park gates close seasonally. Check the park guide for current times. |
| Admission | Free on foot or by bicycle. Vehicle parking charges apply; check the current tariff before driving. |
| Accessibility | Accessible facilities are listed at the lower park. The Cloughmore Stone approach is steep and uneven. |
| Public transport | Use Translink’s route 39 information (Newry–Kilkeel) and plan your return. |
Getting there
Kilbroney’s gates close seasonally, so check current access details before driving. For public transport, use Translink’s route 39 information and plan your return. The village lies on the A2 Shore Road along the lough.
Nearby attractions
- Ardglass – Village and Historic Castle: a medieval castle and historic harbour on the County Down coast.
- Bagenal’s Castle: the 16th-century manor house in Newry.
- Ballyhalbert – Ireland’s Easternmost Village: a seaside spot with a long beach and coastal walks.
- Bangor Abbey: an early-Christian site north of Belfast.
- Ben Crom Mountain, Dam and Reservoir: walking in the Mournes.
Bring a windproof layer whatever the season, because the lough breeze moves fast.