Recreation in Castlewellan Forest Park

Located in a dramatic setting of mountains and sea, Castlewellan Forest Park is home to one of the most outstanding tree and shrub collections in Europe. The beauty, vigour, and perfect shape of the trees in the National Arboretum attract tree enthusiasts from around the world.

The planting of the walled Annesley garden, the focus of the arboretum, began in the 1850s and rare Conifers and Maples were later imported directly from Japan. There are many genus of trees within the arboretum including Eucryphia, Athrotaxis, Abies, Pinus, Sciadopitys and Libocedrus to name a few. The arboretum also has a number of trees that are classed as champion trees, being either the tallest or largest girth of it's species in Britain and Ireland.

The garden is a mixture of informal and formal design with terraces, fountains, ornamental gates and flower borders. To walk around the forest park's mile-long lake, encountering some intriguing modern sculptures on the way, is to enjoy a great experience of eighteenth-century landscaping.

Castlewellan Forest Park offers a great day out for visitors of all ages, whether you are a keen walker, a nature lover or simply looking to just embrace the great outdoors, it includes:

Scenic walking trails with panoramic views
Caravan and Camping Sites
27km of Mountain Bike Trails
‘Animal Wood’ - Outdoor play structure
Horse Riding Trails
Disabled Angling
One of Northern Ireland's most famous lakes
A stunning Victorian Castle
Hedge Peace Maze – one of the largest permanent hedge mazes in the world
Onsite multi-activity centre
Open areas for family picnics
Tea Room and Café

Opening Times

Castlewellan Forest Park and Peace Maze

Open every day except Christmas Day.
April and September: 9am to 8pm
May to August: 9am to 9pm
March and October: 9am to 6pm
November to February: 9am to 5pm

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For Castlewellan Forest Park Vehicle Parking Admission Charges - Click Here

For Castlewellan Caravan and Camping info including:

Where/How to Book
Opening Dates and Operating Times
Pitch Information
Cost
Booking Cancellations
Amendments
Other information

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Queries can be emailed to castlewellanpark@nmandd.org. Please allow up to five working days for a response.

Additional Information

Contact Details

Email: castlewellanpark@nmandd.org