For a small town, Castlewellan, Northern Ireland, offers a surprisingly wide range of accommodations. Visitors are drawn here by the natural beauty of the Mourne Mountains, Castlewellan Forest Park, and the simple charm of the community.
Castlewellan sits in County Down, framed by the Mourne Mountains and close to the Irish Sea. The intermediate settlement is best known for Castlewellan Forest Park, a sprawling estate with a Victorian castle, one of the world's largest permanent hedge mazes, and a scenic lake perfect for kayaking or walking around.
Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Castlewellan for hiking, cycling, fishing, and camping, while history lovers enjoy the town's heritage and proximity to other cultural sites in Northern Ireland. Its location, just a short drive from Belfast, makes it a convenient getaway for locals, those from the broader UK, and international travelers alike.
Among the options for those visiting Castlewellan are the Hillyard House Hotel, a boutique-style hotel in the heart of the community that offers modern comfort with a touch of elegance. It is ideal for those who want to be close to the town square and the forest park. Guests appreciate its stylish accommodations, restaurant, and warm hospitality. Drumee Lodge is a charming bed and breakfast offering a peaceful countryside retreat. With its homely atmosphere and hearty breakfasts, it's perfect for travelers seeking a personal touch and a slower pace. Situated in Castlewellan's town centre, King's Inn blends traditional Irish pub culture with comfortable lodging. It's a lively option for visitors who enjoy being close to local nightlife and community events. Bryansford Cottage
Recommended Resources
Annsborough House is a large former gentlemen's residence near Castlewellan in County Down, Northern Ireland. Set on about an acre of gardens and grounds, it is a short walk from the village centre. A large vintage house converted for self-catering group stays, it features nine bedrooms, and can sleep up to 22 guests. The amenities include a hot tub and outdoor fireplace, a disco/cinema room, large indoor social spaces, multiple living rooms, and a fully-equipped kitchen.
https://annsborough.com/
Castlewellan Forest Park Online Booking
Castlewellan Forest Park is a 450-460 hectare public park around a 40 hectare lake in Castlewellan, County Down, Northern Ireland. Managed by the Forest Service Northern Ireland, it combines a Victorian castle and several features and activities. Its camping facilities include its Main Caravan site, with 37 hard-standing pitches, Dovecote Yard, grassed tent pitches, and Drumbuck Wood, with 19 pitches. Online bookings are available, along with schedules and other information.
https://visitmournemountains.campmanager.com/26659/
The site is situated near Castlewellan Forest Park at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, offering luxury bell tents and a Birch Cabin for couples, families, and small groups. Its bell tents are designed to be cozy, heated with wood-burning stoves, and equipped with a cooking kit and cutlery, and Birch Cabin sleeps up to five and includes a BBQ area, firepit, and outdoor bath. Also included are an off-grid hybrid power system, private parking, a garden, and designated outdoor areas for children.
https://www.escapeglamping.com/
Situated beside the entrance to Castlewellan Forest Park in Castlewellan, County Down, Northern Ireland, Hillyard House features about twenty ensuite guest rooms with contemporary decor, Super King beds, TVs, individual coffee machines, air conditioning, and spacious bathrooms. The on-site Yard Restaurant and Mrs Coleman's Bar serve meals and drinks on the premises. Its location allows for direct access to Castlewellan Forest Park and Arboretum, and easy access to the Mourne Mountains.
https://www.hillyard-house.co.uk/
The Kings Inn is a small hotel, bar, and restaurant in Castlewellan, County Down, Northern Ireland, offering en-suite rooms, an à la carte restaurant, bar food, and a function suite for events. Featured are eight en-suite bedrooms with tea and coffee facilities, and a honeymoon suite with a super-king bed and double shower. In addition to the restaurant and bar, a function suite can accommodate up to 110 people. Rooms may be booked through the Kings Inn website, which includes reviews.
https://www.kingsinncastlewellan.com/
Situated near Castlewellan in County Down, Northern Ireland, Pine Tree Hollow is a small rural glamping site set within the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark. It offers quirky, family- and pet-friendly cabins and unique units designated for an authentic countryside glamping experience. Its location makes it an ideal base for exploring Castlewellan Forest Park and its surrounding attractions. The site includes several distinct units, each with its own outdoor area and character.
https://pinetreehollowglamping.com/
The three-bedroom holiday cottage is situated near Castlewellan in County Down, Northern Ireland. Positioned on hills overlooking the Mourne Mountains, it is marketed as a countryside retreat with a private hot tub. The facility features three bedrooms and can sleep up to six. It also includes a bathroom, private hot tub, free parking, and wireless Internet. It offers direct access to Mourne Mountain trails, local walking routes, cycling trails, fishing spots, and scenic drives.
https://roddyscottage.com/
