⛰️ County Down: Mountains, Myths, and Magical Guesthouses
Welcome to County Down, where the Mourne Mountains sweep down to the sea, legends linger in the mist, and the Guinness is as smooth as a lullaby. This eastern gem of Northern Ireland is a land of contrasts—rugged peaks, tranquil loughs, ancient abbeys, and some of the most welcoming bed and breakfasts in Ireland.
Whether you’re hiking through heather-covered hills, exploring ancient ruins, or waking up to a homemade breakfast in a cosy bed and breakfast in Down, this county offers a perfect blend of adventure and serenity.
🏞️ Must-See Marvels and Hidden Gems
The Mourne Mountains: A Hiker’s Heaven
The Mourne Mountains are the crown jewel of County Down. With their granite peaks and sweeping valleys, they’ve inspired poets, painters, and even C.S. Lewis, who based Narnia’s landscapes on them.
Climb Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland’s highest peak, or take a gentler stroll along the Mourne Wall, a 22-mile dry-stone wall that snakes across the hills like a mythical boundary.
Strangford Lough: Where Land Meets Sea
This vast sea lough is a haven for wildlife and water lovers. Kayak through its islands, visit the Exploris Aquarium, or take the ferry from Strangford to Portaferry for a scenic shortcut.
Don’t miss Mount Stewart, a stately home with world-class gardens and a storybook atmosphere.
Inch Abbey and Dundrum Castle: Echoes of the Past
Inch Abbey, a 12th-century ruin on the banks of the River Quoile, is hauntingly beautiful and famously featured in Game of Thrones. Nearby, Dundrum Castle offers panoramic views over Dundrum Bay and the Mournes.
🧙♂️ Curious Facts and Local Lore
- County Down is the final resting place of Saint Patrick, buried in Downpatrick alongside Saints Brigid and Columba.
- The Mournes inspired C.S. Lewis’s Narnia, and you can follow the Narnia Trail in Kilbroney Park.
- Strangford Lough is home to over 70 islands and is one of the most important marine sites in Europe.
🛏️ Bed and Breakfasts & Guest Houses in Down
To truly experience the warmth of County Down, stay in a bed and breakfast in Down or one of its many charming guest houses. These locally run gems offer more than just a bed—they offer stories, scones, and a front-row seat to local life.
Here are some of the top-rated guest houses and bed and breakfasts in Down:
🏡 The Cuan – Strangford
A family-run guesthouse with a rich history, famously used by Game of Thrones cast and crew. Expect warm welcomes, hearty food, and a pint by the fire.
🏡 Cherryhill Lodge – Newcastle
Nestled at the foot of the Mournes, this B&B offers stunning views, luxurious rooms, and breakfasts that hikers dream of.
🏡 Ballymote House – Downpatrick
A peaceful countryside retreat with elegant decor, friendly hosts, and a garden perfect for afternoon tea.
🏡 The Narrows Guesthouse – Portaferry
A stylish guesthouse overlooking the lough, ideal for exploring the Ards Peninsula and beyond.
Whether you’re after a mountain base, a coastal escape, or a heritage hideaway, guest houses in Down offer something for everyone—and a true taste of bed and breakfast in Ireland.
🍽️ Where to Eat Like a Local
County Down’s food scene is a celebration of land and sea. Here are a few must-try spots:
- The Mourne Seafood Bar – Dundrum: Fresh, local seafood in a cosy setting.
- The Artisan Cookhouse – Saintfield: Creative dishes with a focus on local produce.
- The Lobster Pot – Strangford: A charming spot for seafood lovers and sunset seekers.
And don’t leave without trying Ulster fry—a breakfast feast that’ll fuel your adventures all day long.
🍻 Cheapest Pint of Guinness in Down
Now, the golden question: Where can you find the cheapest pint of Guinness in County Down?
Local sources point to The Anchor Bar in Newcastle, where a creamy pint of the black stuff will set you back just £4.40. It’s a traditional pub with sea views, friendly locals, and a Guinness pour that’s pure velvet.
🧳 Whimsical Weekend Itinerary
Day 1: Mountains and Myths
- Morning: Hike Slieve Donard or stroll the Mourne Wall.
- Afternoon: Visit Dundrum Castle and enjoy lunch in the village.
- Evening: Dinner at The Mourne Seafood Bar and a pint at The Anchor.
Day 2: Loughs and Legends
- Morning: Explore Strangford Lough and Mount Stewart.
- Afternoon: Visit Inch Abbey and Down Cathedral.
- Evening: Relax in your bed and breakfast in Down with a cup of tea and a view of the hills.
📸 Instagram-Worthy Spots
- The Mourne Mountains at sunrise.
- The gothic ruins of Inch Abbey.
- A ferry crossing on Strangford Lough.
- A pint of Guinness with the sea in the background.
🧭 Getting There and Getting Around
County Down is easily accessible from Belfast (just 30–60 minutes by car). Public transport connects major towns, but a car is recommended for exploring the Mournes and the Ards Peninsula at your own pace.
💚 Final Thoughts: Why Down is a County of Wonder
County Down is a place of beauty, balance, and belonging. Whether you’re climbing mountains, tracing saints’ footsteps, or waking up in a cosy bed and breakfast in Down, this county offers a rich, rewarding slice of Irish life.
So pack your walking boots, bring your curiosity, and prepare to fall in love with Down—one legend, one landscape, and one pint at a time.
