District Beaches Retain Prestigious Blue Flag Status

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council is delighted that local beaches at Cranfield, Tyrella and Murlough have again received a prestigious Blue Flag Award for 2026.

The internationally recognised award is presented to beaches and marinas that meet the highest standards in water quality, safety, accessibility, environmental management and cleanliness.

Located at the mouth of Carlingford Lough, Cranfield’s sandy beach is famous for its shallow waters and stunning views of the Mourne Mountains, with Murlough beach outside Newcastle situated near the foot of the Mournes. The National Nature Reserve facility features a wide, sandy beach backed by a 6,000-year-old sand dune system. Tyrella beach outside Downpatrick, boasts a breathtaking two-mile stretch of flat, wide sand backed by dunes. 

Confirmation that the three local beaches have again been awarded Blue Flag status came at a special awards ceremony hosted by Live Here Love Here at The Stables in Groomsport. Across Northern Ireland, 21 beaches and marinas were recognised.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said, "We are delighted that Cranfield, Tyrella and Murlough beaches have once again achieved Blue Flag status.

“These awards reflect the hard work and commitment of Council staff, partner organisations, volunteers and local communities who help maintain these important natural assets for residents and visitors to enjoy.”

Cllr Campbell said “retaining Blue Flag status demonstrates the Council’s commitment to providing clean, safe and accessible beaches, while protecting and enhancing our natural environment."

Live Here Love Here Chief Executive Officer, Eric Randall, congratulated the 21 beaches and marinas that won a Blue Flag or a Seaside Award this year.

“These awards are about celebrating all that is good in our marine environment and reminding the public about the importance of looking after our blue spaces. None of the progress we celebrate today would be possible without the work of our volunteers and officers in our councils,” he added.

This year's Blue Flag programme placed a particular emphasis on accessibility, with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council continuing to improve inclusive access across its beaches with recent developments at Tyrella including a new amenity building with Changing Spaces facility, plans for a new accessible pathway and the introduction of accessible beach equipment in partnership with the Mae Murray Foundation.

The Council congratulates all those involved in maintaining the high standards required to achieve these internationally recognised awards.

For more information on Council beaches and visitor facilities, visit www.visitmournegullionstrangford.com/explore/beaches