Home to the National Arboretum of Northern Ireland, Castlewellan Forest Park, with a picturesque backdrop of sea and mountains, is situated in County Down.
In possession of what is widely regarded as one of the finest collections of trees and shrubs in Europe, one that attracts significant attention from around the world. The Arboretum features giant sequoias, Japanese maples and conifers, and many other specimens from as far afield as Chile, Australia and China in its walled garden.
Visitors to the Castlewellan Forest Park will delight in a marvel of 18th century landscape gardening, punctuated with terraced gardens, fountains, sculptures and ornamental gates. Don’t miss the Peace Maze, one of the world’s longest permanent hedge mazes, with over 6,000 yew trees planted. The wood-carving artist Lady Mabel Annesley spent many years here and a blue plaque in her honour can be seen. Her family home, Castlewellan Castle, is found near the entrance to the arboretum within sight of the lake.
This is a particularly enticing spot to spend some time getting close to nature, and strolling along any of the numerous trails around the 450-acre site is a true pleasure, especially during the spring and autumn months. Walk the six-mile circuit for a very pleasant afternoon also suitable for those on mobility scooters. Campers and caravanners are catered for, and it’s common to see horse-riders passing through as well.
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