There are forests that whisper with the weight of history, where ancient trees guard secrets, rivers carve through stone, and mist lingers like an old memory.
Tollymore Forest Park, nestled at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, is one of those places.
A sanctuary of towering redwoods, Gothic bridges, and winding trails, Tollymore isn’t just a forest—it’s an experience. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk, a Game of Thrones filming location, or a place to camp beneath the stars, this iconic Northern Irish forest has it all.
This guide will take you through everything you need to know about Tollymore Forest Park, from walking trails and camping to fauna, history, and hidden gems.
Where is Tollymore Forest Park?
Tollymore Forest Park is located in County Down, Northern Ireland, just outside Newcastle.
Distance From Major Locations:
- Belfast: 1 hour.
- Dublin: 2 hours.
- Newcastle: 5 minutes. (Check out Newcastle, Co. Down for more attractions.)
- Silent Valley: 30 minutes.
For precise navigation, check Tollymore Forest Park directions.
Tollymore Forest Park: A Historic and Natural Treasure
Tollymore is Northern Ireland’s first state forest park, established in 1955, but its history stretches back centuries.
Who Owns Tollymore Forest?
Originally part of the Tollymore Estate, the park was owned by the Earl of Clanbrassil before being transferred to public ownership in the 20th century. Today, it is managed by Northern Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA).
Tollymore’s unique blend of ancient oak woodlands, dramatic bridges, and hidden caves makes it one of Ireland’s most enchanting landscapes.
Tollymore Forest Park Walks & Trails
There are multiple walking routes within the park, ranging from short riverside strolls to longer mountain treks.
How Long is the Walk Around Tollymore Forest Park?
Tollymore has several trails of varying lengths:
1. The River Trail (Most Popular Route)
- Distance: 5.5 km.
- Time: 1.5-2 hours.
- Difficulty: Easy.
This picturesque route follows the Shimna River, passing stone bridges, waterfalls, and mossy glens. It’s a perfect family-friendly walk.
2. The Arboretum Path (For Nature Lovers)
- Distance: 3 km.
- Time: 1 hour.
- Difficulty: Easy.
This short loop takes you through Ireland’s oldest arboretum, featuring rare trees from North America and Europe.
3. The Mountain Trail (For Hikers & Adventurers)
- Distance: 13 km.
- Time: 4-5 hours.
- Difficulty: Moderate.
This challenging route ascends towards the Mourne foothills, offering spectacular mountain views.
Need a map? Check out the Tollymore Forest Park map before you go.
Tollymore Forest Park Game of Thrones Locations
Tollymore was used as a filming location for HBO’s Game of Thrones, making it a must-visit for fans.
🎬 Key Filming Locations:
- The Haunted Forest: Where the White Walkers first appeared.
- The Stark’s Wolf Pup Discovery: Where the Stark children found their direwolves.
- The Kingsroad: Where Tyrion & Jon Snow travel north to the Wall.
If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, Tollymore is one of the most iconic filming locations in Ireland.
Tollymore Forest Park Camping & Facilities
Can You Camp in Tollymore Forest Park?
Yes! Tollymore offers one of the best camping experiences in Northern Ireland, with modern facilities and stunning surroundings.
Tollymore Forest Park Camping Prices:
- Tents & Campervans: £22 per night.
- Electric Hook-up: £25 per night.
- Facilities: Showers, toilets, BBQ areas, and a play park.
For reservations, check Tollymore Forest Park camping prices on the official website.
What Time Does Tollymore Forest Open?
Tollymore Forest Park Opening Times:
- April – September: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM.
- October – March: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
It’s recommended to arrive early, especially in summer weekends when the park gets busy.
Tollymore Forest Park Prices: How Much Does It Cost?
- Car entry fee: £5.00 per vehicle.
- Concessions: £2.50.
- Walkers & Cyclists: Free entry.
For the latest Tollymore Forest Park prices, visit the DAERA website.
Tollymore Forest Park Wildlife: What Animals Can You See?
Tollymore is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including:
🦌 Red Deer – Sometimes spotted deep in the forest.
🦉 Long-eared Owls – Seen in the early mornings & evenings.
🦊 Red Foxes – Occasionally seen near the river trails.
🐿️ Pine Martens & Red Squirrels – A rare sight, but lucky visitors may catch a glimpse!
Can You Swim in Tollymore Forest Park?
Technically, yes, but swimming is not officially permitted in the Shimna River due to safety concerns.
That said, many locals enjoy a refreshing dip in the river’s rock pools during summer.
Want to swim in a safer location? Check out Newcastle Beach, just 5 minutes away.
Can You Get Married in Tollymore Forest Park?
Yes! Tollymore is a magical location for weddings, offering forest ceremonies, rustic backdrops, and stunning photography opportunities.
Tip: Wedding permits must be arranged in advance through the park office.
Tollymore Forest Park to Newcastle, Co. Down
The distance from Tollymore to Newcastle is only 3 miles, making it a perfect day trip.
- By Car: 5-minute drive.
- By Foot: A beautiful 45-minute walk along the Shimna River.
Looking for food after your hike? Check out Newcastle Co. Down restaurants for great dining options.
Final Thoughts: Why Tollymore Forest Park is a Must-Visit
Whether you’re here for a family walk, a Game of Thrones pilgrimage, or a camping adventure, Tollymore Forest Park is one of the most beautiful places in Northern Ireland.
✅ Perfect for hiking, photography, and wildlife spotting.
✅ A stunning Game of Thrones location.
✅ Great for families, with plenty of outdoor activities.
✅ An ideal starting point for Mourne Mountain adventures.
If you love forests that feel like something out of a fairytale, Tollymore Forest Park should be on your travel list.
Explore More of Ireland’s Greatest Outdoor Destinations:
- Annalong – A stunning Mourne coastal village.
- Silent Valley – A breathtaking reservoir hike.
- Ben Crom – A must-see for Mourne explorers.
Ready to explore Tollymore Forest Par
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