Attractions and Places To See around Tullymore - Top 20

Tollymore Forest Park, Northern Ireland's first state forest park, is rich in natural beauty. You can discover ancient woodlands with native trees like oak and beech, the picturesque Shimna River with its scenic riverside walks and waterfalls, and breathtaking views of the Mourne Mountains. The park also features various caves and grottos along the riverbanks and is home to diverse wildlife, including wild fallow deer, red and grey squirrels, and various bird species.

Yes, the area around Tullymore (Tollymore Forest Park) offers several significant historical sites. You can explore Sketrick Castle, a 12th-century historic landmark on Sketrick Island. Another must-see is Nendrum Monastery Ruins, a pre-Norman monastic site dating back to the 5th century, offering fragments of an early sundial and views of the Lough. Additionally, Kilmood Church is a pretty historical church situated on a rocky knoll.

Tollymore Forest Park offers a network of well-maintained walking and hiking trails suitable for various abilities. These range from leisurely strolls along the Shimna River to more challenging hikes through the ancient woodlands. The park's diverse terrain allows for exploration of its natural features, historic bridges, and garden follies.

Absolutely! Many attractions around Tullymore are family-friendly. Tollymore Forest Park itself is ideal for family outings with its walking trails, designated picnic areas, and opportunities to spot wildlife. Specific highlights like Sketrick Castle, Nendrum Monastery Ruins, and Castle Ward Tower (Winterfell Filming Location) are all categorized as family-friendly and offer engaging experiences for all ages.

Yes, Tollymore Forest Park is generally dog-friendly. Many trails are suitable for walks with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially due to the presence of wildlife and other visitors, and to follow any specific park guidelines regarding pet access.

There are excellent cycling opportunities near Tullymore. You can find various routes for touring bicycles and road cycling. For touring, options include the 'Delamont to Ardglass Harbour loop' (51.7 km, moderate) and sections of the 'Strangford Lough Cycle Trail'. For road cycling, routes like the 'Kilmood Church – Bike Path to Belfast loop from Balloo' (38.9 km, easy) are available. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Cycling around Tullymore and Road Cycling Routes around Tullymore guides.

The area around Tullymore offers a variety of hiking trails. Within Tollymore Forest Park, you'll find numerous paths. Nearby, you can explore routes like the 'Delamont Long Walk' (5.3 km, easy), the 'Sketrick Island loop via Sketrick Castle' (2 km, easy), and the 'Daft Eddy's Coffee Shop – Sketrick Island loop from Whiterock' (3.8 km, easy). For more hiking options, refer to the Hiking around Tullymore guide.

Tollymore Forest Park is dotted with charming architectural curiosities and historical features. You'll encounter numerous historic stone bridges, some dating back to 1726, like Ivy Bridge and Foley's Bridge. The park also features garden follies and monuments, including the grand Barbican Gate lined with Himalayan cedars, and the quirky stone Hermitage along the river path. Remnants of a megalithic cairn and an ancient fort also offer glimpses into its long history.

While Tollymore Forest Park offers a variety of trails, some areas with ancient woodlands and riverbanks may have uneven terrain. It's best to check with the park directly for specific information on accessible routes or paths suitable for wheelchairs or those with mobility challenges. Generally, flatter, wider paths are more accommodating.

Tollymore Forest Park is beautiful year-round, with each season offering a unique experience. Spring brings vibrant new growth and blooming flora, while summer provides lush greenery and pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities. Autumn transforms the woodlands with stunning fall colors, and winter, though colder, can offer a mystical, serene atmosphere, especially after a fresh snowfall. Your preference for weather and scenery will determine your ideal visiting time.

Yes, fans of 'Game of Thrones' will recognize several nearby locations. Tollymore Forest Park itself served as a filming location for key scenes, including the Haunted Forest. Additionally, Castle Ward Tower (Winterfell Filming Location), an 18th-century National Trust property, was famously used as 'Winterfell'. Audley's Castle and Audley's Field within the Castle Ward demesne were also used for filming, such as the scene where Robb Stark meets Talisa after the Battle of Oxcross.

Tollymore Forest Park is a haven for wildlife. Visitors often spot wild fallow deer, red and grey squirrels, badgers, otters, and foxes. The park is also home to various bird species, including Mandarin ducks and woodpeckers, making it a great spot for nature observation and birdwatching.