Newcastle, County Down

Harbour
In 1820's the harbour pier was created as a loading point for the famous Mourne granite extracted from the hills above. Blocks of Mourne granite were used to build docks at Belfast and Liverpool. One of the most famous pieces of stone is the Albert Memorial in London. At one time the harbour was the centre focus of the town exporting not only granite but potatoes and timber, and landing coal and fish. Today it is used mailnly for recreation purposes.

Donard Park and Forest
Starting point for Mourne peak walks. The Glen river runs along one side of the park and can be used as a walkway to the many sign posted treks along the lower slopes and ascent of Slieve Donard

Slieve Donard
Slieve Donard at 850 metres (2,789 ft) is the highest of the Mourne Mountains. The walk to its summit is mainly on forest and mountain paths that are rough and sometimes wet. Parts of the mountain section have been paved, and the last part of the climb follows the Mourne Wall.
The views from the summit are extensive and on a clear day it may be possible to see the Isle of Man, Wicklow, Wales, Scotland and Donegal.

Murlough National Nature Reserve
Situated on the coast below the mourne Mountains with a 5,000 yr old sand dune system, heathland and woodland surrounded by an estuary and the sea. It is home to a wide variety of animals and plants.