
Tollymore Forest Park
A magical woodland escape with fairy-tale bridges, a winding river, and ancient trees, famous for Game of Thrones filming locations.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Rhododendrons in bloom

Tollymore Forest Park
Best Time
Rhododendrons in bloom

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magical woodland escape with fairy-tale bridges, a winding river, and ancient trees, famous for Game of Thrones filming locations.
"The scenery is straight out of a fairy tale – rivers, old stone bridges, towering trees, and even a few Game of Thrones filming spots."

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Paths can be uneven and muddy. Good walking shoes are a must for exploring comfortably .
📸 Bring Your Camera
The scenery is incredibly picturesque, with fairy-tale vibes and stunning natural beauty .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Barn
Near the entrance
A unique 18th-century barn artfully designed to resemble a church, adding a touch of architectural intrigue.

River Trails
Throughout the park
Wander alongside the Shimna River, crossing charming stone bridges amidst lush greenery and towering trees.

Game of Thrones Filming Locations
Various spots
Explore iconic scenes from the popular series, feeling the magic of Westeros among ancient woodlands.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Trails
Plan Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Myself and my partner are planning a hike through Tollymore forest into the Mournes. Does anybody know if there is parking at Tollymore or the most convenient place to park for this little excursion? Thanks 😊
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Paths can be uneven and muddy. Good walking shoes are a must for exploring comfortably.
📸 Bring Your Camera
The scenery is incredibly picturesque, with fairy-tale vibes and stunning natural beauty.
Tollymore Forest Park, Newcastle, Northern Ireland. Fun fact. They used this location in the first episode of Game of Thrones!
Favourite nature walks?
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Plenty of scenic spots to enjoy a meal amidst nature. Great for families.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
A fantastic place for dog owners to enjoy walks with their pets.
Where is the best place to go for a walk in this country?
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Paths can be uneven and muddy. Good walking shoes are a must for exploring comfortably.
📸 Bring Your Camera
The scenery is incredibly picturesque, with fairy-tale vibes and stunning natural beauty.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Plenty of scenic spots to enjoy a meal amidst nature. Great for families.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
A fantastic place for dog owners to enjoy walks with their pets.
🚗 Parking Fee
A small fee applies, considered a donation to maintain the park's beauty.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tollymore Forest Park is widely praised as a magical, fairy-tale-like escape with stunning natural beauty, diverse walking trails, and family-friendly amenities. Visitors appreciate its well-maintained grounds, peaceful atmosphere, and unique features like the Game of Thrones filming locations. While generally not overcrowded, it can get busy on sunny weekends.
"Spent the day at Tollymore Forest Park and honestly, it was incredible. The scenery is straight out of a fairy tale – rivers, old stone bridges, towering trees, and even a few Game of Thrones filming spots if you’re into that sort of thing.
There are loads of walking trails to choose from, whether you just want a gentle stroll or something a bit more adventurous. We did the River Trail and it was peaceful, really beautiful, and not too tough.
The park itself is super clean and well-kept. There are toilets, picnic tables, and even a camping area if you want to stay longer. It’s also very family-friendly—there’s a little play park and plenty of open space for kids to run around.
Parking was easy (small fee at the gate), and the place didn’t feel too crowded, even on a sunny weekend.
All in all, just a lovely spot to unwind and get some fresh air. Highly recommend if you’re in the area or fancy a day trip. Bring good shoes, a packed lunch, and your camera—you’ll want to take photos!"
Anoob Madhu Lathika
"Beautiful forest park, great for families with children and dog owners. Car park on site £5 also caravan and camping site. Filming location of “Game of Thrones”. On a sunny day you can jump into the river or fish."
Agnieszka Kacer-Klimkowska
"I had an amazing time at Tollymore Forest Park , The atmosphere was perfect for a sunny day, with plenty of green space to relax and enjoy. The park is well-maintained, and there's a great vibe with families, friends, and even people exercising, camping. I loved walking around and exploring the different areas—it's such a peaceful escape from the city."
Lounes Zekraoui
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tollymore Forest Park is located in County Down, Northern Ireland. From Belfast, it's approximately a 1-hour drive south. You can take the A24 and then follow signs for Newcastle and Tollymore. Public transport options are limited, so driving is generally recommended for ease of access.
While direct public transport to the park's entrance is challenging, you can take a bus to nearby Newcastle and then arrange local transport or a taxi to Tollymore. It's best to check current bus schedules and taxi availability in advance.
There is a car park on-site with a small entrance fee, which visitors consider a donation to help maintain the park. Parking can fill up on busy days, so arriving early is advised.
Yes, Tollymore Forest Park is very dog-friendly! It's a great place for dog owners to enjoy walks with their pets amidst beautiful scenery.
Some of the main paths are manageable with prams, but many trails are uneven, muddy, or have steps, making them difficult for strollers. A baby carrier is often a better option for exploring the full park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a car park fee, which acts as an entrance fee. Visitors view this as a donation to help keep the park beautiful and well-maintained.
The car park fee is typically around £5 per car. This is a reasonable price for access to such a stunning natural area.
Tollymore Forest Park is generally open daily from dawn until dusk. It's always a good idea to check the official park website or local listings for any seasonal changes or specific hours.
Yes, Tollymore has a caravan and camping site. It's recommended to book well in advance, especially during peak season, as it's a popular spot.
Information on specific discounts is not widely advertised, but the entrance fee is generally considered affordable for the experience. It's worth checking with the park directly if you have specific needs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The River Trail is a popular choice for a peaceful, beautiful walk. For a more adventurous experience, explore the longer, more challenging routes. There are trails for all abilities.
Yes, the park is well-maintained with toilets and picnic tables available, making it ideal for a day out with family and friends.
Absolutely! There's a little play park and plenty of open space for kids to run around. The gentle trails are also great for younger explorers.
On hot days, visitors can enjoy a quick dip in the clean and refreshing river water.
If you walk quietly, you might spot deer and rabbits. The park's diverse ecosystem supports various forms of wildlife.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! The park offers stunning natural beauty, from mossy bridges and winding rivers to towering trees and unique architectural features like the barn. The Game of Thrones filming locations also provide dramatic backdrops.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive forest and dramatic landscapes. A macro lens can be useful for close-ups of flora. However, even a smartphone can capture beautiful shots given the park's inherent beauty.
Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful soft light. However, the dappled light filtering through the trees at any time of day creates a magical atmosphere.
The stone bridges, the unique barn resembling a church, and any areas with dramatic tree formations or river views are highly photogenic. The Game of Thrones sites are also very popular for photos.
Be mindful of other visitors and respect the natural environment. Stick to marked trails and avoid disturbing wildlife. The weather can change quickly, so be prepared for different lighting conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Tollymore's Trails
Many visitors highlight the importance of wearing sturdy, waterproof footwear, as the paths can become muddy and uneven, especially after rainfall. While some main paths might be manageable with a stroller, the park's natural terrain often makes a baby carrier a more practical choice for families with very young children. Always check trail conditions, especially after adverse weather, and carry water and snacks for longer excursions.
A Touch of Hollywood Magic
While specific filming spots are not always signposted, the general atmosphere of the park lends itself to the fantasy world. The mossy bridges, the winding river, and the dense canopy all contribute to a sense of mystery and enchantment. It's a unique opportunity to step into the story and experience a piece of cinematic history amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
Family Fun and Relaxation
On warmer days, the clean and refreshing waters of the Shimna River offer a chance for a quick dip, much to the delight of children and adults alike. The park's well-maintained facilities, including toilets and picnic tables, ensure a comfortable visit. Visitors consistently praise the park's family-friendly atmosphere, making it a stress-free and enjoyable outing for all ages.






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