Castlewellan Forest Park

About this park

Castlewellan Forest Park, nestled in County Down, offers a stunning escape with its expansive woodlands, beautiful lake, and historic arboretum. Dogs are warmly welcomed, and while they should generally be kept on lead on shared pathways and near the main facilities, there are plenty of opportunities for them to explore off-lead in designated forested areas, offering a glorious mix of sights and smells for adventurous pups. The park's varied terrain includes gentle lakeside strolls and more challenging forest trails, making it suitable for all energy levels. The scenery includes picturesque views of Castlewellan Lake, the unique Peace Maze, and the diverse collection of trees in the arboretum, providing a constantly changing backdrop for your walk. Paths are generally well-maintained, ranging from wide gravel tracks to narrower woodland trails, so prepare for muddy paws after a rainy spell. This makes it an ideal spot for both a quick outing or a day-long adventure. Facilities at Castlewellan Forest Park are comprehensive, with ample parking available on-site (a charge applies). Public toilets are located near the main visitor areas, and bins are provided for waste. While there isn't a dedicated dog wash, there are a couple of cafes within the park where you can grab refreshments, some with outdoor seating that welcomes dogs. The park is a popular choice for locals and visitors alike, offering a fantastic natural playground for dogs and their owners.

Facilities

• Café
• Parking
• Public Toilets
• waste_bins

Opening hours

Daily: Dawn - Dusk