Things to do in County Down

Discover the charm of Tullymurry House, a beautifully restored property nestled in the picturesque countryside of County Down, Northern Ireland. Conserved and cared for by Irish Landmark Trust, this historic house provides the perfect base for exploring the region’s stunning landscapes and attractions.

Tullymurry House is ideally situated to enjoy a wide range of activities and sights in County Down. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be captivated by the tranquil surroundings and the house’s unique character. With its spacious interior and well-appointed amenities, Tullymurry House offers a comfortable and relaxing stay for visitors.

The longer you stay at Tullymurry House, the more opportunity you’ll have to immerse yourself in the beauty and history of County Down. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply unwinding in a peaceful setting, this property provides the perfect starting point for your journey.

Explore the rolling hills and lush green landscapes that surround Tullymurry House, or venture further afield to discover the many attractions that County Down has to offer. With so much to see and do in the area, an extended stay at this charming property is highly recommended.

Where to Stay in County Down – Tullymurry House

As you step into Tullymurry House, you’ll be greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere, featuring rustic touches and comfortable amenities. Cosy up by the roaring log fires in the living room, sink into the plush couches, and enjoy the authentic ambience of the farmhouse kitchen. The elegant dining room, complete with a long table, is perfect for lively evening meals. The bedrooms are beautifully appointed with crisp linens, comfortable beds, and delightful fabrics, ensuring a restful night’s sleep.

In the summer months, the garden at Tullymurry House transforms into a serene oasis, bursting with an abundance of fruit, herbs, and vegetables that guests are welcome to pick and enjoy. The property also boasts a wellness area, complete with a sauna and steam room, offering the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation.

Surrounded by breathtaking countryside views and overlooking the majestic Mourne Mountains, Tullymurry House is more than just a place to stay – it’s an unforgettable experience. Like all Irish Landmark Trust properties, Tullymurry House is a truly great destination that will create lasting memories for all who visit.

The History of Tullymurry House

Tullymurry House has origins dating back to the early 17th century. The house has undergone several expansions and ownership changes over the centuries, including the Weir family in the late 1700s, the Marshall family in the 1800s, and the McMinn family from 1895 to the present day.

In 2012, the house and part of the farmyard were extensively refurbished and transformed into holiday accommodation managed by The Irish Landmark Trust. The restoration process carefully preserved the unique character and atmosphere of the dwelling.

The builders responsible for the restoration, Messrs John McAleenan and Co, were shortlisted for the CEF Construction Employers Federation’s “Best Restoration’ excellence award in 2013, acknowledging the fine detail and original methods of construction used to maintain the house’s historic integrity.

Seven Days in Down

Day One: Exploring Local Gems

Begin your day with a short 10-minute drive to the charming town of Downpatrick. Here, you’ll visit the Down County Museum, where history comes to life through captivating exhibits that span from ancient Ireland to modern times. Immerse yourself in the fascinating stories and artefacts that showcase the rich heritage of the region.

After a morning of historical exploration, embark on a short 10-minute drive to Inch Abbey. This fascinating place offers a unique opportunity to wander through the atmospheric ruins of a 12th-century Cistercian monastery. As you explore the ancient grounds, soak in the rich history and tranquil surroundings that make Inch Abbey a true gem of County Down. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the abbey and imagine the lives of the monks who once called this place home.

Day 2: Coastal Wonders

We recommend taking the 35 minutes drive to Strangford Lough, a beautiful area known for its natural beauty. Take a walk along the coast and enjoy the pretty views of the water and the landscape. Keep an eye out for different types of wildlife that live in the area.

Take a short 20-minute drive to Castle Ward, a big house owned by the National Trust. The house was built in the 18th century and has an interesting mix of styles. Take a look inside to learn about its history and see the fancy rooms.

After you’ve seen the house, go for a walk in the gardens and on the trails around the property. There are different trails to choose from, so you can pick one that suits you. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings, look for wildlife, and take in the fresh air as you explore this lovely place.

Day 3: Into the Mountains

It’s time to explore the great outdoors. Tullymurry House is situated within the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark, an area known for its natural beauty, rich culture, and lots of fun activities. We suggest spending the whole day going for a hike in the mountains.

Put on your hiking shoes and pick a trail that sounds good to you. There are plenty of options to choose from, so you can find one that matches your fitness level and interests. Take your time and enjoy being out in nature, taking in the fresh air and beautiful views.

To plan your hike in advance.They have lots of information about the different trails and sights you can see in the area.

After a full day of hiking, head back to Tullymurry House and relax. Make use of the wellness area to soothe any sore muscles you might have from your adventure. The sauna and steam room will help you unwind and feel refreshed after your day in the mountains. Please note that the wellness area must be booked in advance and has an additional fee.

Day 4: Cultural Immersion

Take a 40-minute drive from Tullymurry House to the Ulster Folk Museum for a morning of cultural exploration. This unique museum lets you experience what life was like in the past. You’ll see real historical buildings and meet guides dressed in traditional clothing who will show you how people lived and worked in different time periods. It’s a fun and interactive way to learn about the rich history and culture of Co Down.

After your visit to the Ulster Folk Museum, head to the nearby Castle Espie Wetland Centre for a relaxing picnic lunch. This beautiful nature reserve is located along the shores of Strangford Lough and is home to a variety of wildlife. Spend the afternoon walking around the wetlands and see if you can spot some rare birds or playful otters. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy nature and unwind after your morning of cultural immersion.

Don’t forget to bring a picnic blanket and some tasty snacks to enjoy while you’re there!

Day 5: Gardens and Castles

Take a short 30-minute drive to Mount Stewart House and Gardens for a lovely morning outing. Start by exploring the beautiful landscaped gardens, which are filled with all sorts of flowers, trees, and plants. Take your time wandering through the different areas and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. After your garden walk, head inside the house for a guided tour to learn about its history and see the fancy rooms. Before you leave, stop by the tearooms for a nice morning coffee or tea and maybe a tasty treat.

In the afternoon, make the 20-minute drive to Audley’s Castle to see the remains of a medieval castle. As you explore the ruins, imagine what life was like for the knights and ladies who once lived there. You can walk around the different parts of the castle and get a feel for how it was built and used. It’s a fun way to step back in time and experience a bit of history firsthand.

Don’t forget to bring your camera to take some pictures of the castle ruins.

Day 7: Newcastle and Kilbrony

We recommend taking a trip to the charming seaside town of Newcastle. (35 min drive). This place has something for everyone, from hikes and walks to forest parks, beautiful beaches, and amazing nature reserves. You can easily spend the whole day exploring all that Newcastle has to offer.

On your way to Newcastle, make a stop at Warrenpoint and Kilbroney Forest Park. If you’re travelling with kids, they’ll love the Narnia Trail at Kilbroney Forest. It’s a fun-themed walk based on the famous book series. You can also rent mountain bikes here if you want to explore the park on two wheels.

For those who love golf, Newcastle is home to the Royal County Down Golf Club. This club has been voted as the Number 1 course in the World’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses by Golf Digest in 2017, 2018, and 2019. If you’re a fan of the sport, this is definitely a must-visit spot.

Our House Manager recommends

Visit Cranfield Alpacas ( 40 minute drive) and discover how adorable alpacas can be. They have a variety of experiences available.
You can try a stonewalling day with Jenny and Mark( a fantastic couple who are brilliant at what they do) at Green holiday cottages. They can also get children involved.
Newry Food Tour runs in the warmer months only and is worth checking out.
Take the story of Newry walking tour with Sinead and find out information about the area that many locals don’t even know.
Also recommended is a visit to Strandfield – florist, baker and grocer to pick up some treats for yourt holiday.

Where to eat?

Here are some great options for dining in the local area:

Newry Food Tour: Join a walking food tour in Newry to sample the best regional cuisine. It’s a fun way to explore the town and try different local dishes. Visit
The Bronte Steakhouse (Banbridge): This recommended steakhouse is a 35-minute drive from Tullymurry House. Check out their menu at
Sintons on the Bridge (Scarva): Located just a 20-minute drive away, this restaurant comes highly recommended. If the weather is nice, you can also enjoy a walk along the towpath before or after your meal.
The Vault (Banbridge): If you’re in the mood for pizza, this place is great. It’s a 20-minute drive from Tullymurry House.
Hollie Berrie Tearooms (Scarva): Perfect for breakfast or lunch, this charming tearoom is a 20-minute drive away.
The Whistledown Hotel (25 minute drive)- a popular spot with foodies.
The Flagstaff Newry ( 10 minutes)
Hara at Home Meal Delivery: Irish Landmark Trust has partnered with Co. Down based food company Hara at Home to offer guests a premium meal delivery service. You can pre-order restaurant-quality meals to be delivered right to your door at Tullymurry House. Visit the website to browse the menu and place your order for the desired date.

When is the best time to visit Tullymurry House?

Tullymurry House is a great destination year-round, so the best time to visit depends on your personal preferences and what you’d like to do during your stay.

If you’re interested in attending local events, check out the weekly “What’s On” guide. This list will give you an idea of the various activities and festivities happening throughout the year, so you can plan your visit accordingly.

Keep in mind that Irish Landmark Trust holidays become more affordable the longer you stay. With so much to see and do in the area, consider booking a few extra nights to make the most of your visit to Tullymurry House, Co. Down.

Please note that these suggestions are meant to help you plan your trip and are based on information available as of Spring 2024. Always check individual websites for the most up-to-date opening times and booking details before finalising your itinerary.

Featured Property

Salterbridge Gatelodge

Salterbridge Gatelodge, located in the glorious Blackwater valley, dates from the mid 19th Century.

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The Irish Landmark Trust is a company limited by guarantee and a registered charity. Republic of Ireland Charity No.20028909; Northern Ireland Charity No.NIC101205

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Booking Conditions

HOW TO BOOK AN IRISH LANDMARK HOLIDAY :

It is possible to reserve dates online at www.irishlandmark.com but bookings are not confirmed until a confirmation email is received from the bookings desk.

BOOKING:

Your booking must be for holiday purposes only. Irish Landmark reserve the right to refuse hire for purposes other than holiday accommodation. When you make a booking, you accept full responsibility for all persons who will use or visit the property during the period booked. When you book, you agree to indemnify us against all loss and damage arising directly or indirectly to the property and its contents from any deliberate or negligent act or omission by yourself, or any person accompanying you.

CONTRACT OF HIRE:

The hiring contract shall be between the Hirer and Irish Landmark and made subject to these Booking Conditions . The Contract of Hire is not effective until Irish Landmark dispatches to the Hirer written confirmation of a booking.

PRICE OF YOUR HOLIDAY:

Irish Landmark reserves the right to increase or decrease the price of unsold holidays at any time. However, such amendments to price will not be applied to holidays already confirmed.

V.A.T.:

All prices quoted are based on current prices and rates of V.A.T. at the time of going to press. Irish Landmark is unable to absorb increases in Value Added Tax or any new forms of taxation which may be introduced. Any such increases will be charged as notified and will be payable.

DEPOSIT AND BALANCE PAYMENTS:

All bookings can be paid for in full at time of booking. All bookings made within 12 weeks of stay must be paid in full at time of booking. Bookings made more than 12 weeks in advance of stay require a 30% non-refundable deposit with the balance due 12 weeks before arrival. Irish Landmark shall be entitled to treat any failure to pay by the due date as a cancellation of the booking and will notify the Hirer by email. The maximum number of payments for a booking will be limited to two – the deposit and balance payment. A separate payment may be due where an amendment has been made to the original booking.

PAYMENT TYPES:

Payments can be made by credit/debit card (Visa or Mastercard ONLY).

Payments for properties in the Republic of Ireland are taken in Euros, payments for properties in Northern Ireland are taken in Great British Pounds.

VOUCHERS:

Please note that only one voucher can be used per booking. Vouchers have a strict expiry date.

CONFIRMATION OF BOOKING:

Upon receipt of payment by our bookings office, you will receive a confirmation of your reservation. All charges for the booking will be confirmed in this notification. Once confirmation has been issued, the Hirer is responsible for the total advertised price of the property and any extras notified.

AMENDMENTS TO BOOKINGS (excluding cancellations):

Irish Landmark does not offer a transfer of dates option. A complete change of dates is treated as a cancellation

CANCELLATION POLICY: We hope that you will not have to cancel your stay, or part of your reservation. If for any reason this is unavoidable, cancellations must be notified by email to bookings@irishlandmark.com. In the event of cancellation (this includes a reduction in number of nights) your deposit is non-refundable and the following cancellation charges will apply:

Date of Cancellation	Cancellation Charge
More than 12 weeks before start date	The deposit of 30%
84 – 28 days before start date	50% of total rental
Fewer than 28 days	100% of total rental

Irish Landmark does not operate a cancellation insurance scheme for any reason, including Covid-19, and strongly recommends that all guests take out full holiday insurance cover.

PARTY SIZE AND COMPOSITION: In no circumstances may more than the number of persons listed on the booking form occupy the property overnight. Irish Landmark reserves the right to refuse admission if this condition is not observed. Bookings can only be made by adults and cannot be accepted from anyone under the age of 21. Irish Landmark only allows guest stays where the lead guest is aged 21 years or over.

ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE:

Upon receipt of final payment, you will receive Access Details and Important Information via email about your rental. This includes the contact information of the Local House Manager, directions to the property, arrival and departure time, etc. However, the specific arrival time must be agreed with the relevant local House Manager at least four days prior to holiday start date. It is the responsibility of the Hirer to arrive at the property at the time agreed with the House Manager. Irish Landmark reserves the right to levy an additional charge if the property is not vacated in accordance with these terms on the day of departure.

DAY VISITORS:

The number of day visitors will be limited to the capacity of the property – i.e., a 2-person property may have 2 day visitors, etc. Prior written consent must be obtained from Irish Landmark Trust for additional numbers of day visitors.

PERSONAL BELONGINGS: Baggage and personal belongings are always at the Hirers risk. No responsibility can be accepted for loss or damage to any car or its contents.

POLICY REGARDING DOGS:

Only certain Irish Landmark Trust properties accept a dog. ALWAYS check this before you book. Hirers who have made a reservation and are taking a dog will be required to read and agree to special terms, which details the conditions of bringing a dog to one of these properties. Failure to comply with these conditions could result in the guest being asked to leave a property. The rental cost is non-refundable in such cases.

ELECTRIC VEHICLES:

Irish Landmark respectfully request that you charge your electric vehicle at the nearest charging point and not at the property.

HIRER’S RESPONSIBILITY:

The Hirer is responsible for the property and is expected to take all reasonable care of it. Our House Managers work hard to maintain and clean the buildings and aim to ensure that the property is in a satisfactory condition for your enjoyment. We ask that you leave the property in a clean and tidy condition upon departure, including all equipment, utensils etc. If the property is left in an unsatisfactory condition and additional cleaning costs are incurred, Irish Landmark reserves the right to recover these costs from the Hirer. All breakages and damage must be reported to the House Manager immediately so that they can be rectified. All breakages and damage are the legal responsibility of the Hirer and the cost of repair or replacement must be paid to Irish Landmark upon demand. If there are problems relating to the functioning of the building, please let the House Manager know immediately. Please note that candles are NOT permitted at any Irish Landmark property. Smoking is not allowed inside any Irish Landmark property.

WEBSITE / LITERATURE:

While every effort has been made to ensure that the representations stated on our website, or any printed literature, are made in good faith, neither they nor any oral representations made by employees or representatives of Irish Landmark Trust will create liability on the part of Irish Landmark.

GENERAL:

There shall be no liability for any claim arising from the act, omission or neglect or default of Irish Landmark Trust, its employees or representatives unless proved to be done with intent to cause damage or recklessly and with knowledge that loss or danger would probably result. Irish Landmark’s agents, servants and employees or other representatives have no authority to waive or modify these Conditions other than in writing.

RIGHT OF ENTRY:

On rare occasions Irish Landmark may need access to the property for essential maintenance work, should it be necessary, Irish Landmark will give you as much notice as is possible. There is no need for you to stay in the property since our House Manager can accompany any such visits.

COMPLAINTS:

If you have any complaint during your holiday, please contact the House Manager. If the matter is not dealt with to your satisfaction, please email bookings@irishlandmark.com outlining details of your complaint.

IRISH LANDMARK’S RIGHTS:

Irish Landmark reserves the right to refuse any booking and cancel any booking already made, if in its absolute discretion it considers this to be necessary. Where a booking is cancelled by Irish Landmark, every effort will be made to offer an alternative holiday at no increase in cost. If the Hirer does not accept the alternative holiday offered, Irish Landmark will return to the Hirer the deposit paid and any other sum paid to Irish Landmark by the Hirer. Liability for all consequential loss, damage and disappointments is accordingly limited to such return.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS FOR SPECIFIC DOG – FRIENDLY PROPERTIES

It is the hirer’s responsibility to ensure they book a specific dog-friendly property if they are bringing a dog. There are specific terms and conditions that to which the hirer must adhere:

We allow a dog, but only when they have been booked in and paid for. The “Taking a Dog” option must be selected at time of booking. A charge will apply.

Our policy is strictly ONE DOG. If you arrive at the property with more than one dog the House Manger is entitled to deny you access to the property. If it becomes known during/after your stay that more than one dog is/was with you, you may be asked to vacate the property and a charge of €100/£100 per dog will apply.

You must bring your own crate/bed in which your dog can sleep. Please also bring bowls, towels, and waste bags for your dog.

Your dog must be house-trained and kept under proper control. Dogs are STRICTLY not permitted on beds, sofas, or any furniture. There is no exception to this rule.

Before departure, please thoroughly clean the property, paying particular attention to removing pet hair from rugs and soft furnishings. A vacuum cleaner is available to you.

If there is evidence that you have not cleaned up adequately after your stay, you will be charged a flat rate of €100/£100.

You must double-check that the outside area around the property is free of any foul. Dog fouling inside the property is completely unacceptable. Guests will be asked to vacate the premises immediately if this is discovered.

Your dog must not be left unsupervised in the property. We ask that you take your dog with you when you go out. Please be mindful of any livestock nearby.

By accepting a confirmation of a reservation from Irish Landmark the lead guest agrees:

I have read and agree to be bound by the Booking Conditions.

I agree to be held responsible for the balance of hire for the property due and payable in accordance with these terms.

I understand that most Irish Landmark properties have no television or internet access; that some have no washing machines or dishwashers; and that many have limited mobile phone coverage.

I understand that as the Lead Person, I am responsible, before their arrival, for informing all guests of Irish Landmark’s booking conditions, and for their observance of same.

If I am bringing a pet or having day visitors, I have particularly noted the special conditions that apply in these situations

Hirers making a reservation over the telephone are deemed to have read all Booking Conditions and agree to be bound by them.

Availability Calendar

Check availability for all of our properties at a glance here.

Republic of Ireland

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Northern Ireland

Important Notes

1-night stays are not permitted.

Bank Holidays & Special Dates have a set minimum number of nights.

Deposits are strictly non-refundable & non-transferable.

Cancellation Fees will apply if you cancel your reservation.

Terms and Conditions apply to all bookings.

Special Offers and Discounts are not valid against existing bookings.

There are restrictions on arrival and departure dates over the Christmas and New Year periods.
Strictly no arrivals or departures on 24th, 25th and 31st of December.