Top Things to do in County Down
What to do and see in County Down, Northern Ireland: The Best Things to do Good for Couples
Discover the best top things to do in County Down, United Kingdom including Mourne Mountains, Clearsky Adventure Centre, Ballywalter Beach, Cultra Manor, Bangor Marina, Mount Stewart, Crawfordsburn Country Park, Castlewellan Forest Park, Castle Ward, Inch Abbey.
Restaurants in County Down
1. Mourne Mountains
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 122 reviews
The best known mountains in Ireland consist of 12 shapely summits rising above 2,000 feet on the eastern side, and the rugged peak of Slieve Donard that climbs steeply to 2,796 feet.
Reviewed By Bazalina - Rostrevor, United Kingdom
I'm not a hiker but I love driving through the Mournes. There are amazing stone walls everywhere and fields of sheep. My favourite loops is from Rostrevor, up past Spelga Dam and around to Dundrum then either back that way or along the coast. This area is a gem. So many great places to explore and exceptional scenery. Loads to enjoy even for the less active types although i gather the hiking is incredible too.
2. Clearsky Adventure Centre
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 154 reviews
Based on the shores of Strangford Lough; just 45 minutes from Belfast. Come to Clearsky Adventure Centre for a wide range of activities on offer to everyone a€" from the young to the young at heart. The centre was also used extensively for the filming of Game of Thrones. As you drive down through the estate you soon realise why the HBO film location scouts chose here; the centres medieval walls and castle clock tower, the beautiful surrounding landscapes and far-reaching views across the water; it was the perfect place to create the fantasy 'Winterfell' - home of the Stark family Adventure days and courses for individuals to large groups. Canoeing, Laser Clay Pigeon Shooting, Kayaking, Sea Kayaking, Abseiling, Rock Climbing, Coasteering, Raft Build and Racing, Archery, Crate Stacking and more. Experience Clearsky &€" inspiration, fun and enjoyment for everyone.
Reviewed By LeedsTanya - Leeds, United Kingdom
Fab afternoon spent mountain biking around beautiful Castle Ward. Bike were ace - they even had a perfect fit for my 6’5” tall husband. The Boundary Trail was perfect for our 14 and 12-year-old so would highly recommend this activity for a family looking an active afternoon out! James was the perfect host -service was quick and efficient and he was really knowledgable. Have booked in for the kayaking tomorrow we were so impressed!
3. Ballywalter Beach
4. Cultra Manor
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 71 reviews
This museum contains a popular Titanic exhibit featuring drawings by Thomas Andrew, the ship's designer and former Belfast resident.
5. Bangor Marina
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 193 reviews
Reviewed By TamaraW6
My friend and I stayed at the Marine Court Hotel for a week. From this convenient location, we were able to tour Bangor on foot, including the Marina. The Eisenhower Pier wraps its arm around the marina and, along with its interesting WWII history, boasts walking path along the wall with views out to the channel, inlaid mosaic art, and the iconic little red lighthouse at pier's end. I enjoyed a morning stroll along both sides of the marina, including little beach covered in smoothly rounded pebbles and seagrass and the path past Pickie Fun Park to the coastal walkway (which, unfortunately, I didn't have time to do). We watched a young rowing team practicing in the bay. The Red Berry coffee, snack and ice-cream shop is on the corner by the Marina with outdoor seating. We enjoyed the night lights and activity of the city streets at dusk and the fog rolling in or bright sunshine for breakfast. We weren't moored there, but we heard from locals the friendly hope that those who do will spend time in Bangor in addition to their other Northern Ireland activities. Close to train and bus routes to Belfast, coastal village routes and a main road into the Mourne Mountains.
6. Mount Stewart
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 992 reviews
Mount Stewart is one of the most inspiring and unusual gardens in the National Trust's ownership. The garden reflects a rich tapestry of design and great planting artistry that was the hallmark of Edith, Lady Londonderry. The mild climate of Strangford Lough allows astonishing levels of planting experimentation. The formal areas exude a strong Mediterranean feel and resemble an Italian villa landscape; the wooded areas support a range of plants from all corners of the world, ensuring something to see whatever the season. Mount Stewart House re-opened after our 3 year long restoration project. We've brought back the elegance and charm of the house when it was home of the 7th Marchioness Edith, Lady Londonderry and her family in the early 20th century and we look forward to welcoming you to enjoy in all its splendor. Six kilometers of walking trails wind through a landscape ‘lost in time’ and establishes Mount Stewart’s reputation as one of the best-preserved Irish country demesnes.
Reviewed By 174eleanora
Yet another great family day at mount stewart. Joined last year and we have had the best picnics,walks and good fun here.the freedom for the kids to run and learn about all the habitat.adventure play area and den building is a real hit for kids!!and competitive adults!!such beautiful lake walk and has been a pleasure enjoying all the changing seasons.halloween was great for the kids and staff are friendly and helpful.thanks to all who keep it one of the most beautiful places we are lucky to have.
7. Crawfordsburn Country Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 385 reviews
Reviewed By Y4712ZCnicholasd - Larne, United Kingdom
Lovely day trip to Crawfordsburn Forest Park and Helen's Bay on the North County Down Coast near Bangor. The latest Saturday excursion by me and my brothers during the Covid-19 pandemic restrictions took us around muddy pathways, Autumnal leaf covered walkways and strolls along the sandy beaches on an unusual warm sunny day in November. We walked around the different terrains of the park for nearly two hours, exploring the whole of the park lands and also taking our time to admire the views from coastline looking towards the County Antrim coastal towns of Carrickfergus and Whitehead. Highly recommend people to visit the area with their families, friends and dogs and it is such an easy place to get to with great road links from Belfast and also a train station nearby on the Bangor - Belfast train line. I'll think i'll plan a summer visit next year.
8. Castlewellan Forest Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 374 reviews
Reviewed By BridS318 - Castlewellan, United Kingdom
Castlewellan Forest Park is in a stunning location, close to the Mourne’s and Newcastle. There are lots of varying levels of walks and mountain bike trails. The lake path is flat so suitable for prams and young children on bikes. Other walks are more hilly but less busy than the popular lake path. Also open spaces close to the car park for picnics, a maze and children’s play area. A great day out.
9. Castle Ward
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 628 reviews
Castle Ward will take you on a journey of discovery. The 18th-century eccentric house with two distinctly different styles, classical and Gothic, will entice you to explore further. This truly beautiful 332-hectare (820-acre) walled demesne, with walking trails, exotic garden, stunning vistas and picturesque farmyard, will unlock your imagination through family history, leisure pursuits, events and industrial heritage. A children's pastimes centre and laundry room are a short walk from the house in the stableyard, alongside a gift shop, second-hand bookshop and tea-room.
Reviewed By shivaom6 - Castlewellan, United Kingdom
Beautiful location, fantastic scenery Forest walks The castle gardens Game of thrones fame as winterfell The tour of the old castle ward national trust was well worth a visit- historic old house well kept and maintained from the Victorian age Lovely gardens
10. Inch Abbey
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 180 reviews
Reviewed By AliCat939 - Portaferry, United Kingdom
Inch Abbey is a 12th & 13th century Abbey, set on the banks of the river Quoile. It is a stunningly beautiful setting, made more famous as the scene where Robb Stark celebrated victory, with his army, after the 'Battle of the Whispering Wood'. It is a lovely place to visit, to walk your dag, have a picnic or just wander about learning about its history & the lifestyle of the monks from the very informative plaques set around the site. Expect to see a GoT's tour bus, with excited cape wearing, sword bearing tourists!
