Audio Guide of Warrenpoint and Carlingford Lough

Carlingford Lough is a natural area open 24 hours a day, while Rostrevor and its trails, such as the Rostrevor Ring, are best visited during daylight hours until dusk. The main access is by car, with parking available at Rostrevor Forest Park (from £3). Warrenpoint has bus connections from Newry.

There is no entrance fee for either Carlingford Lough or Rostrevor, as both are public natural areas. Only parking charges apply in places such as Rostrevor Forest Park (£3-£5 per day) or Warrenpoint Promenade Car Park (£1.50/hour).

We recommend at least half a day: 2 hours to walk along Warrenpoint Promenade, 2 hours exploring Rostrevor Forest, including the famous Fairy Glen trail, and extra time to enjoy a coffee with lough views in villages such as Rostrevor or Omeath.

This border fjord between Ireland and Northern Ireland was strategic: the Vikings used it as a trade route in the 10th century, and medieval castles such as Narrow Water Castle, dating from the 16th century, can still be seen. It also played a key role during the Troubles because of its border location.

Spring and summer, from May to September, offer mild weather and festivals such as the Warrenpoint Feile. Autumn is magical because of the foliage in Rostrevor Forest. Winter is cold, but there are Christmas markets in Warrenpoint.

Warrenpoint has a paved seafront promenade and accessible parks. In Rostrevor, only part of Kilbroney Park has adapted paths. Woodland trails such as Fairy Glen present some difficulty. More information is available at nidirect.gov.uk.

Do not miss: 1) the sacred mountain Slieve Martin with Celtic crosses, 10 minutes by car from Rostrevor; 2) Narrow Water Castle beside Warrenpoint; 3) the Mourne Mountains, 30 minutes away, for climbing Slieve Donard; 4) the coastal village of Carlingford in Ireland, with its 12th-century abbey, reachable by ferry.

Bring walking shoes, as trails can be muddy, wear warm clothing even in summer because of the breeze from the lough, and carry cash for parking. Try fresh oysters at The Quay Restaurant in Warrenpoint. Download our audio tour with local stories to your phone!