Best lakes around Drumena are characterized by their scenic settings within the Mourne Mountains region. This area features a mix of mountain lakes and those nestled within forest parks. Visitors can explore diverse natural landscapes, from tranquil loughs to areas offering views of historical structures. The region provides opportunities for experiencing natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
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A very beautiful castle in the forest
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See if you can find your way to the peace bell in the centre of the maze. Castlewellan Peace Maze, is one of the world's largest permanent hedge mazes representing the puzzle that was to become a peaceful future for Northern Ireland. To encourage a sense of common ownership, the maze was planted by people from all over Northern Ireland, plus nearly 4,000 school children. Planted in 2000
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The Blue Lough is a picturesque mountain lake embedded in a wide trough valley in the southern Mournes. It's the perfect place, to pause, catch your breath, and enjoy the impressive nature.
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It's both a surprise and a delight to find a sandy beach high up in the mountains. This small shore, formed by the beautiful Lough Shanna, makes a perfect spot for a relaxing sit-down and picnic before heading up Slieve Doan.
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This extraordinary castle sits in Castlewellan Forest Park and has a grand view over the lake. From the walking and cycle trail around the lakeside, you can enjoy the fantastic vantage point and admire the castle's turrets. Built in the mid 1800s, the castle was owned by the Annesley family. Its grounds contain a phenomenal arboretum which has been considerably extended and includes giant sequoias. The building is now a Christian conference centre and isn't open to the public. It's well worth seeing from the outside though, and the lawns around the lake are a perfect place for a picnic.
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A tour suggestion is at https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/slieve-binnian-p695071
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Lovely looking castle surrounded by a lake and lots of trails for walking and cycling. Unfortunately, the castle is not open to the public and swimming is not allowed in the lake (fishing and boats are fine).
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The lakes around Drumena are diverse, featuring picturesque mountain lakes like Blue Lough, and those nestled within forest parks, such as the lake overlooked by Castlewellan Castle. You can also discover unique features like the sandy beach at Lough Shanna, high in the mountains.
Yes, the area offers several family-friendly spots. The Castlewellan Peace Maze is one of the world's largest permanent hedge mazes, offering a fun challenge for all ages. Additionally, the Castle Park Boating Pond in Newcastle provides swan boats for a leisurely pedal on the water.
You can visit the View of Castlewellan Castle, an ornate Scottish baronial castle built in 1858. While the castle itself is not open to the public, its impressive exterior and setting within Castlewellan Forest Park make it a picturesque landmark to admire from the lakeside trails.
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy easy hikes, explore cycling routes, or try gravel biking. Many routes offer views of the lakes and surrounding natural beauty.
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. For instance, you can find an 'easy' rated Lakeside Walk. Other easy routes include those offering views of Castlewellan Castle and the surrounding forest park.
Absolutely. The area provides options for both cycling and gravel biking. Routes like the 'View of Castlewellan Castle – Castlewellan Lake loop' are available for gravel biking, and various cycling routes pass by landmarks such as the Castlewellan Peace Maze and Castlewellan Castle.
Visitors appreciate the impressive natural beauty and the opportunity to pause and enjoy the surroundings, especially at places like Blue Lough. The unexpected sandy beach at Lough Shanna is also a delightful surprise, perfect for relaxation and picnics.
Yes, beyond the lakes themselves, you'll find the sandy beach at Lough Shanna, which is a unique sight high in the mountains. The region is also part of the Mourne Mountains, offering dramatic landscapes and wide trough valleys where lakes like Blue Lough are nestled.
Absolutely. The sandy beach at Lough Shanna is highlighted as a perfect spot for a relaxing sit-down and picnic. The lawns around the lake at Castlewellan Castle also offer a great place for a picnic.
Yes, areas like Castlewellan Peace Maze, which is near a lake, are noted as dog-friendly, suggesting that many of the surrounding trails and park areas are suitable for walks with your dog.
While specific seasonal recommendations are not provided, the Mourne Mountains region, where these lakes are located, is generally appreciated for outdoor activities. Visiting during milder weather will enhance your experience of hiking, cycling, and enjoying the scenic views.


Still not found your perfect lake around Drumena? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.