River bridges and a choice of woodland trails / NEAR NEWCASTLE (COUNTY DOWN)

Tollymore Forest Park

Travel to Bryansford for forest paths around the Shimna and the park’s distinctive bridges and landscape features. The route choice matters: a short arboretum visit is a different undertaking from the longer river or mountain trails. Start at the current map and choose a marked route for the group’s footwear and available daylight.

Before you go

Vehicle admission is charged. Forest Service generally does not charge pedestrians, but lists exceptions; check your intended entry rather than treating every arrival as free.

The practical details

Where to find it: Tollymore Forest Park, Bryansford, near Newcastle, County Down
Directions and arrival information ↗
Tickets and booking: Pay the applicable vehicle-entry charge on arrival. Walking routes follow the current trail map; campsites and organised activities have separate bookings. Severe weather or forestry work can affect access. Current charges are listed at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/forest-recreation-charges.
Access and getting around: Trail lengths, surfaces and gradients vary. Check the current accessible-facility information and ask about the intended route; an accessible toilet or car park does not establish that a river or mountain loop is step-free.
Official access information ↗
Visiting with children: The short arboretum option can be more realistic than a full river circuit for younger children. Supervise beside water and bridges, and choose a route that everyone can finish comfortably.

Practical information checked 16 September 2026. Confirm anything essential to your visit with the venue.

Make it part of your day

Allow 1–3 hours for a selected shorter route for the visit, plus travel and breaks. This is a suggested planning allowance; opening times, access and availability may affect your plans.

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