Hotels in Newcastle: Coast, Mourne Mountains and Local History

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Editor's Choice

Pure Luxury

“Call me spoiled - but I love to be treated like a queen when traveling. Only the best is good enough for me. Hotels that make my vacation a dream of luxury and seduction are my choices. Pay attention to the (violet Medal) for luxury accommodation.”

Tatjana Herzegova, Kiew, Ukraine

Editor's Choice

Sustainable Travel

“There is only one earth and we should go out and see it. I like hotels, which look for sustainability. It is not only protecting the ecology, but also taking care for the local business and culture. I recommend the medal for eco accomodation. Let’s protect our earth. Sustainable travel is travelling with responsibility.”

Markus Lenk, Düsseldorf, Germany

Newcastle Beach gives Newcastle a clear connection to the coast: the beach is approximately 2.5 km long and is used for swimming and sunbathing. If you are planning a beach visit, follow local bathing advice, as it can vary by season. Access is via steps or a slipway; check local guidance before travelling, as access information can change. Newcastle Beach is located within the Mourne and Slieve Croob Area of Outstanding Beauty and the Murlough Special Area for Conservation.

River, Local History and Mourne Landscape

The Shimna River flows into the Irish Sea at Dundrum Bay near Newcastle. Newcastle was named after MacGinnis Castle, dating from 1588, which once stood at the mouth of the Shimna River. The river mouth is therefore both a geographical landmark and part of the town’s history of how it got its name.

Tollymore Forest Park offers a distinct focus on nature. It covers almost 630 hectares at the foot of the Mourne Mountains. From there, panoramic views extend over the surrounding mountains and the sea near Newcastle. The park offers opportunities for hiking, horse riding and orienteering; individual facilities may vary. Choosing between the beach and the park also means choosing between activities: swimming and sunbathing take centre stage at the beach, while hiking, horse riding and orienteering are available in the park.

Routes and Other Activities

Newcastle Central Promenade offers an easy route that starts near Donard Park. Donard Park provides access and parking at the starting point for the ascent to the summit of Slieve Donard. This gives you a choice between an easy promenade route and a summit climb. Check local guidance on access and parking in advance.

From Newcastle, the Mourne Coastal Route passes through the town towards Bloody Bridge along the A2. The Granite Trail lets visitors see relics from the once-thriving Mourne granite industry. As well as the landscape, you can explore the former granite industry as part of the region’s heritage.

Royal County Down Golf Club comprises the Championship Links and the Annesley Links. The Championship Links are considered challenging and offer impressive views. If you are planning to play golf, check the current booking conditions.

Castle Park includes crazy golf, go-karts and pedal swans. Island Park has an outdoor tennis court that can be booked in person at Newcastle Centre. As availability can change, it is best to confirm before your visit.

When looking for a hotel in Newcastle, it is worth deciding first what you want to focus on during your trip: the coast, the Mourne landscape, local history or golf. This can help you choose Newcastle based on the experiences you want to prioritise.

Discover more destinations: Dundrum, Holywood, Ardglass, Ballynahinch, Rathfriland, Conlig, Crossgar, Crawfordsburn

For the broader travel overview: Down.

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