Things to do in County Down

Top Things to Do in County Down - County Down Must-See Attractions

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Things to Do in County Down

Check out must-see sights and activities:
Tollymore Forest Park, Mount Stewart, Film Tours, Castles. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
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Top Attractions in County Down

These rankings are informed by Tripadvisor data—we consider traveller reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.

Tranquil forest park with picturesque mountain and river views, marked trails for peaceful walks, and a habitat for native red squirrels. Ideal for family picnics and nature photography.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Stately home set on Strangford Lough with meticulously preserved artifacts and rich history, surrounded by 25 acres of formal gardens boasting rare plants and a serene rose garden.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Historic estate with well-maintained trails, sunken gardens, and informative tours of its unique architecture and furnishings. Ideal for relaxing walks and picnics by Strangford Lough.
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Historic castle set amid expansive gardens with scenic strolls, hidden gems, and a walled garden. Guided tours provide insights into the estate's past, while seasonal events add a festive touch.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Spacious rooms with ocean views and live entertainment set the tone for a memorable stay, complemented by a spa delivering quality treatments and a serene atmosphere.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Tranquil forest destination with picturesque gardens, serene lake, and engaging Peace Maze. Ideal for family outings, hiking, and cycling with scenic walking tracks and lakeside views.
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What travellers are saying

  • Tina E
    San Diego, CA600 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    What a gem this beautiful place is! A free park (parking ticket machines didn’t work) to go and walk in the nature. Different levels of hiking routes, lots to see in every corner, hundreds of different trees. Anywhere you looked it was like a painting. No rush of people this time of the year either. Will have to return in the spring.
    Written 10 December 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Mathmagic
    Portrush, UK166 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A very well looked after and very grand stately home. Full of interesting artefacts and history. The volunteers dotted around the place are very knowledgable and approachable. A lovely day out
    Written 8 February 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • marian w
    Annalong, UK51 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This is such a great place to go and very reasonably priced. So interesting and could have stayed longer than the two hours we were there as didn’t see the wooded area and farm. Staff are dressed up for the time . They have demonstrations which makes it even better, and these change.
    Written 11 November 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • emuslushy
    London, UK420 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    A pleasant visit to Castle Ward. Peaceful grounds and well signposted routes. The house was open when we visited and the distinctive styles were very obvious.

    The room stewards were very good - informative, friendly, willing to answer questions and provide more information, but also happy to let you browse independently - the right mix.

    Also had a short walk around the grounds. The paths are quite steep and they do lead down to the lough. Very pleasant.

    We also visited the bookshop (very reasonably priced) and the cafe, where the food was hot and tasty.
    Written 19 January 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • cathywhelan1968
    Dublin, Ireland131 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Absolutely amazing spot. From the moment I contacted Brian to make a booking, I felt the sense of professional but friendly service offered to visitors. When we arrived, we were again impressed by the warm welcome from Christine at reception and we had a fantastic tour with Caroline. The House, gardens and cafe are stunning and spotless. This is one of the best sites I have visited in Ireland. Well done all. Cathy
    Written 23 December 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Gail C
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Great day out with my young daughters, there is plenty to do to burn off some stream in half term! The new playground is fab, the girls loved the fairy and Dino trails as well as all the animals to feed. The jump pillow is a huge favourite. There are ample picnic areas if you bring your own food, but also a cafe and ice cream shack.
    Written 16 February 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • geelongexpat
    Melbourne, Australia1,289 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Gorgeous spot. I visited in December and the mountains were snow covered. Trails and roads were icy. I fell over. Be careful. Well worth visiting though.
    Written 23 December 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Finn M
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    I went on a tour of the Saint Patrick Centre with my friends in early June 2024. Immediately, we knew that we had come across a hidden gem, at least for tourists. FWIW, to local Down people, the cafe is well known for affordable fare and great craic. I had one of the best meals on my trip here, an Ulster Fry. The staff were all extremely friendly and were very willing to give advice on sites to visit and the local history of Saints Patrick, Colmcille, and Brigid. If you are visiting Belfast, it totally worth it to take the bus to Downpatrick or drive the 35 minute commute to check out this class establishment and the best of the Ards Peninsula. Next time you explore the history of St. Patrick come here just before going to his grave just up the road.
    Written 22 July 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Chrissy309
    Shrewsbury, UK228 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    What a beautiful find. Opposite Bangor Castle, which is more like a manor house. Through a wooded area and there is the walled garden. Lovely plants, a wildflower area and willow arches. Very well kept. There is also a cafe and toilets on site.
    Written 1 October 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Mr. Guide
    418 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The walk up Slieve Donard is one of the most beautiful, scenic walks in Northern Ireland. It is quite a hard climb to the summit but it's worth it.
    Written 28 August 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Valerie R
    Belfast, UK825 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Beautiful tranquil place to go for some time out and to catch breath. The weather was pleasant which added to the stunning views although can be very busy on Bank Holidays making parking difficult.
    Written 14 September 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Trevor smith
    South Yorkshire, UK1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    First time to northern Ireland with the family and wanted an adventure with good memories so instead of a hotel we stayed in the campsite and from start to finish it was brilliant all staff on site where very accommodating and helpful. The scenery is beautiful with some very good fun to be had especially on the lake! The grounds where very well maintained and kept clean the toilets and showers where surprisingly clean for a busy camp site. Polished mirrors and taps clean floors and toilets where gleaming I cannot fault the site in any way. Like I said start to finish a very enjoyable time spent here and yes we would definitely return 😁. Thank you again.
    Written 28 June 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
The above attraction descriptions were created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for any of the above attraction descriptions. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information.
Reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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