Best attractions and places to see around Tannaghmore include a variety of natural and historical sites. The region features prominent peaks offering expansive views, historical castles, and challenging climbs. Visitors can explore diverse landscapes, from mountain roads to forest parks, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. This area offers a range of places to discover and experience.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
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This historic 12th century building is a typical example of an Anglo-Norman motte with a kidney-shaped bailey. The 7.6m high mound, which once housed a wooden tower, was later replaced by a stone tower house, the ruins of which can still be seen today. Access is via Clough's main road; there is a small car park, but it is not always well signposted. Access is usually permitted. The surrounding countryside, with views of the Mourne Mountains, offers a tranquil atmosphere that invites you to linger.
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A very beautiful castle in the forest
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The motte and bailey dates to c.1200 and is an excellent example of an Anglo-Norman earthwork castle. The taller mound, the motte, was built of earth to provide a look-out position and the central defence. Excavations at the top of the motte during the 1950s uncovered a wooden palisade which originally extended around the summit. When you climb the motte you realise what an important position the castle is in, over looking the routes east to Downpatrick, south to Dundrum and north to Belfast Lough. The views from the top of the motte west to Slieve Croob are particularly fine.
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Slieve Croob stands at 534m and is the highest peak of the Dromara Hills, situated just north of the Mourne Mountains. From the summit, you can enjoy expansive views across County Down and toward the Mourne mountain range, a designated Area of Natural Beauty.
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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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what a great day spent up slieve croob weather was fabulous.. handy enuff on a nice path even saw a few cyclists 👍
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Yes, the region offers several family-friendly spots. The View of Castlewellan Castle, located within Castlewellan Forest Park, provides a scenic setting with trails around a lake, perfect for family walks. Additionally, Clough Castle Ruins is a historical site that is also considered family-friendly, offering an engaging glimpse into the past.
You can explore significant historical sites such as the View of Castlewellan Castle, an ornate Scottish baronial castle from 1858, and the Clough Castle Ruins, a 12th-century Anglo-Norman motte and bailey castle. Both offer insights into the region's rich history.
For challenging climbs with rewarding views, consider Finnis Road, a quiet mountain road known for its stunning scenery despite a tough ascent. Another option is the Slieve Croob Summit, the highest peak of the Dromara Hills, offering expansive views across County Down and towards the Mourne Mountains after a challenging climb. The Bannanstown Road Climb also provides great views across County Down.
Yes, Clough Castle Ruins is a dog-friendly historical site where you can explore the motte and bailey with your canine companion. Many of the outdoor trails and forest parks in the wider region are also suitable for walks with dogs, though specific rules may apply.
The area around Tannaghmore is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling, road cycling, and running. For cycling, explore options like the Strangford Lough Cycle Trail. Road cyclists can enjoy routes such as the Strangford Ferry Terminal loop. Runners have trails like the Murlough Nature Reserve loop. You can find more details and routes on the Cycling around Tannaghmore, Road Cycling Routes around Tannaghmore, and Running Trails around Tannaghmore guide pages.
The region is rich in natural features and viewpoints. The Slieve Croob Summit offers expansive views across County Down and towards the Mourne Mountains. The View of Castlewellan Castle provides a grand vista over a lake within Castlewellan Forest Park. Other highlights like Finnis Road and Bannanstown Road Climb are also noted for their stunning scenery and views.
Visitors frequently highlight the stunning scenery and expansive views from locations like Finnis Road and Slieve Croob Summit. The historical significance and picturesque settings of sites like View of Castlewellan Castle and Clough Castle Ruins are also highly appreciated.
Yes, Castlewellan Forest Park is a notable area featuring a grand view of Castlewellan Castle over a lake, surrounded by numerous trails for walking and cycling. The park also boasts a significant arboretum.
While some climbs in the area are challenging, Castlewellan Forest Park, home to the View of Castlewellan Castle, offers numerous trails suitable for easier walks around the lake. For specific easy hiking routes, you can explore the Running Trails around Tannaghmore guide, which includes routes of varying difficulties, some of which may be suitable for easy walks.
The natural landscapes around Tannaghmore, including areas like Slieve Croob and Castlewellan Forest Park, provide habitats for various wildlife. While specific species are not detailed, forest parks and natural monuments typically support local birdlife, small mammals, and diverse plant species. Visiting during quieter times of day can increase your chances of spotting wildlife.
The best time to visit largely depends on your preferred activities. For hiking and outdoor exploration, spring and summer offer milder weather and longer daylight hours. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, especially in forest areas like Castlewellan. Clear days are recommended for visiting viewpoints like Slieve Croob Summit to fully appreciate the expansive views.
While the main highlights are well-regarded, exploring the quieter mountain roads like Finnis Road can feel like discovering a hidden gem due to its stunning scenery and less-trafficked nature. The historical significance and tranquil atmosphere of Clough Castle Ruins also offer a unique, less crowded experience compared to more prominent sites.


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