park-gardensnature-reserveplayground

Castlewellan Forest Park

An outdoor park-gardens in County Down

Free entryOutdoors

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Castlewellan Forest Park is a sprawling 460-hectare forest park in County Down, Northern Ireland, perfect for families seeking outdoor adventure and nature exploration. The park is home to the famous Peace Maze, one of the largest permanent hedgemazes in the world, which kids will love navigating. Other highlights include the National Arboretum with exotic trees, a tranquil walled garden, and a large lake offering rowboat rentals and fishing.

Family-friendly facilities are plentiful:
Well-marked walking and cycling trails suitable for all ages (pushchairs can manage some routes)
A modern playground with swings, slides, and climbing frames
Picnic areas and BBQ sites (bookable) with scenic views
The Forest Park Café serving kids’ meals and snacks
Clean toilets and baby-changing facilities

Practical tips: Parking costs £5 per car (free for National Trust members). The park is mostly outdoors, so bring rain gear and sturdy footwear. The maze can be busy on weekends – go early. Dogs on leads are welcome. Nearby Castlewellan town offers additional dining options.

At a glance

Entry

Free / cheap

SettingOutdoor

AreaCounty Down

What parents should know

Castlewellan Forest Park is a sprawling 460-hectare forest park in County Down, Northern Ireland, perfect for families seeking outdoor adventure and nature exploration.

queues

Beat the maze queues by arriving early

The Peace Maze gets busy on weekends. Visit first thing in the morning for shorter waits and more chance to enjoy it without crowds.