Slieve Croob Historical Tour Celebrates Good Relations Week 2025

As part of Good Relations Week 2025, the Rowallane District Electoral Area (DEA) Forum organised a Historical Tour of the Slieve Croob area on Wednesday 15 October.

Over 30 participants from a range of community groups across the Rowallane area took part in the historical tour, which celebrated the area’s rich shared history and cultural heritage.

Funded by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council and Together: Building a United Community (T:BUC), the tour was led the Council’s Heritage Officer, Linda McKenna. The group explored several significant local sites, including Drumaness, Loughinisland, Castlewellan and Dundrum. Participants enjoyed learning about the industrial heritage of Drumaness Mill Town, the three historic churches at Loughinisland and the development of Castlewellan Town, before finishing the day with a visit to Dundrum Castle.

Rowallane DEA Forum Chairperson, Councillor Callum Bowsie said, “The Slieve Croob Historical Tour was a fantastic opportunity for local people to come together and explore the shared stories and heritage that connect our communities. Good Relations Week provides an important platform to celebrate the diversity of our district and to strengthen the relationships that make it such a great place to live. I would like to thank all those who took part and helped make the day such a success.”

Participants also enjoyed a traditional lunch in Castlewellan Community Centre, providing time for conversation and connection among the different community groups.

The Rowallane DEA Forum continues to support initiatives that promote inclusion, shared understanding and positive community engagement throughout the district.