Attractions and Places To See around Clough - Top 20

Clough is rich in history. You can explore Clough Castle, a significant motte and bailey Anglo-Norman earthwork castle dating back to around 1200 AD, which offers free public access. Additionally, the Twelve Arches Bridge is a stunning old stone bridge with historical significance, carrying the old Newcastle – Dundrum/Belfast road across the Carrigs River. While not open to the public, the View of Castlewellan Castle, an ornate Scottish baronial castle built in 1858, can be admired from the surrounding trails in Castlewellan Forest Park.

Yes, several attractions around Clough are perfect for families. Tollymore Forest Park offers numerous hiking trails suitable for all ages, along with facilities and a peaceful environment. The Murlough Nature Reserve Boardwalk provides an accessible path through a 6000-year-old sand dune system, where children can spot various wildlife. The View of Twelve Arches Bridge is also a picturesque spot with picnic benches, ideal for a family outing.

The Clough area boasts beautiful natural landscapes. Tollymore Forest Park is a highlight, featuring a river, extensive forest, and historical bridges, perfect for nature walks. The Murlough Nature Reserve Boardwalk allows you to experience a diverse 6000-year-old sand dune system, home to various mammals, birds, and insects. You can also enjoy scenic views of the lake and forest surrounding Castlewellan Castle from nearby trails.

Absolutely! Tollymore Forest Park is renowned for its many hiking trails, ranging from casual walks to longer routes like the 'long haul trail'. The Murlough Nature Reserve Boardwalk offers an easy trail through the sand dunes. For more options, you can find easy hikes like the Dundrum Coastal Path or the Murlough North Point loop on the Easy hikes around Clough guide.

Beyond hiking, the Clough area offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy road cycling with routes like the 'Clough Castle Ruins – Dundrum Castle loop' or the 'Slieve Donard Hotel – Newcastle Beach loop' found in the Road Cycling Routes around Clough guide. Running enthusiasts can explore trails such as the 'Murlough Nature Reserve loop' or the 'Carrigs Estuary loop' detailed in the Running Trails around Clough guide.

Visitors particularly appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the area. Many highlight the 'fantastic park' and 'many hiking trails' at Tollymore Forest Park, noting the 'green jungle and unusual plants'. The Murlough Nature Reserve Boardwalk is praised for its 'beautiful 6000-year-old sand dune system' and diverse wildlife. The 'wonderful ornate' Twelve Arches Bridge is also a favorite for its picturesque views and picnic spots.

While there is no entry fee for Tollymore Forest Park itself, there is a £5 parking fee for vehicles. The park offers a rest area, toilets, and a small catering vehicle near the entrance.

Clough Castle is open to the public, and access is free. This historical site features a motte, a stone tower, and an outer enclosure, offering commanding defensive views.

The View of Twelve Arches Bridge is an excellent choice for a picnic. It features several picnic benches and offers wonderful views up and down the Carrigs River. The lawns around the lake at Castlewellan Castle also provide a perfect setting for a picnic, even though the castle itself is not open to the public.

Yes, the Murlough Nature Reserve Boardwalk is a natural monument, running through a 6000-year-old sand dune system. Within Tollymore Forest Park, you can find the Tollymore Forest Park Stone Arch Bridge, which is also considered a natural monument. Additionally, the Twelve Arches Bridge is a unique and ornate historical structure.

The best way to experience the Murlough Nature Reserve is by walking along the Murlough Nature Reserve Boardwalk. This path takes you right through the heart of the 6000-year-old sand dune system, allowing you to observe the diverse ecosystem and its wildlife. It's accessible from public car parks, and National Trust members can use their dedicated car park for free.

While Castlewellan Castle is a beautiful sight, it is not open to the public as it now functions as a Christian conference center. However, you can enjoy fantastic views of the castle and its turrets from the walking and cycling trails around the lake in Castlewellan Forest Park.