The best walks and hikes around Tollymore Forest

Yes, dogs are welcome in Tollymore Forest Park but they must be kept on a lead at all times to protect wildlife and for the consideration of other visitors. The park's numerous paths provide excellent opportunities for walking with your canine companion.

Absolutely. The park is well-suited for families. Besides the short Arboretum Path, a great option is the Tollymore Forest Park – The Hermitage Stone Archway loop from Bryansford. It's a gentle walk of about 3.8 km that takes you past some of the park's charming 18th-century architectural follies.

Yes, the Shimna River, which flows through the heart of the park, features a series of small cascades and rocky pools that are very picturesque. Many of the riverside trails offer lovely views of these water features. For a hike that specifically includes them, consider the Tollymore Forest Park – Shimna River Waterfall loop from Bryansford.

Tollymore Forest is a beautiful year-round destination. Spring is particularly stunning when the beech woodlands are carpeted in bluebells. Autumn offers a spectacular display of colour from the diverse tree collection. Summer is ideal for enjoying the riverside paths, while winter walks can be crisp and peaceful, offering a different perspective of the forest's structure.

For experienced hikers looking for a challenge, the Summit of Slieve Donard – Tollymore Forest Park loop from Bryansford is an excellent choice. This demanding route is over 22 km long and involves a significant ascent to the highest peak in the Mourne Mountains, offering incredible panoramic views as a reward.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers frequently praise the park's unique combination of well-maintained forest trails, the scenic Shimna River, and the many historic stone bridges and follies that add a sense of magic to the walks.

Tollymore Forest Park is located near the town of Newcastle in County Down. The main entrance is on the Bryansford Road. There is a large car park available on-site, though it can get busy during peak times. A parking fee is usually required. For the most current information on opening hours and charges, it's a good idea to check the official nidirect.gov.uk website.

Yes, Tollymore Forest was used as a filming location for several scenes in Game of Thrones, often representing the Haunted Forest north of the Wall. Many fans enjoy walking the trails and trying to spot the exact locations where scenes were shot, particularly along the river and among the ancient trees.

The Arboretum Path is the shortest waymarked trail in the park, at just under 1 km. It's an accessible walk through one of Ireland's oldest arboretums, which dates back to 1752. The path allows you to see a diverse collection of trees from around the world, including a notable cork tree and the remains of a Giant Redwood.

Yes, the region is a hub for hikers. Nearby, you'll find several popular spots. The

Glen River path is a well-trodden route that follows the river up towards the mountains. For a different experience, the Granite Trail Newcastle offers fantastic walks with amazing waterfalls. For more strenuous mountain hiking with incredible views, Hare's Gap is a classic route into the heart of the Mournes.

There is a wide variety of trails to explore. While there are several main waymarked routes of different lengths and difficulties, komoot features around 30 distinct hiking tours in and around the park, from short, easy strolls to challenging mountain treks.