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 and perfect shape of the trees in the National Arboretum attracts tree enthusiasts from around the world.

The planting in the walled Annesley garden, the heart of the arboretum, began in the 1850s. Rare Conifers and Maples were later imported directly from Japan. The arboretum contains many different types of trees, including Eucryphia, Athrotaxis, Abies, Pinus, Sciadopitys and Libocedrus. It also has several champion trees, meaning they are the tallest or widest of their kind in Britain and Ireland.

The garden combines both informal and formal design with terraces, fountains, ornamental gates and flower borders. A walk around the park’s mile-long lake, where you will also find modern sculptures, offers a unique experience of eighteenth-century landscape design.

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

Castlewellan Forest Park and Peace Maze

Opening Times

• 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

• How to Apply to Hold an Event in Castlewellan Forest Park

Contact Details

Email: castlewellanpark@nmandd.org