Top 4 Lakes around Tullynasoo
Best lakes around Tullynasoo offers diverse natural landscapes and points of interest. The region features picturesque lakes, some with unique geological formations and others nestled within expansive forest parks. These areas provide opportunities for outdoor activities and appreciating natural beauty. The lakes are integrated into the local environment, offering varied experiences for visitors.
Best lakes around Tullynasoo
- The most popular lakes is Sandy beach at Lough Shanna, a lake that features a sandy beach high up in the mountains.…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
View of Castlewellan Castle
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Sandy beach at Lough Shanna
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Ben Crom Dam
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Castlewellan Peace Maze
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Castle Park Boating Pond
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The route takes you along the Silent Valley Reservoir on a well-developed, asphalt road that is also suitable for less experienced drivers. However, it can be slippery in wet weather, so caution is advised. A special highlight is the impressive dam wall of the Ben Crom Reservoir, which blends harmoniously into the surrounding mountain landscape. Please note, however, that access to the park is subject to a fee.
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A very beautiful castle in the forest
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See if you can find your way to the peace bell in the centre of the maze. Castlewellan Peace Maze, is one of the world's largest permanent hedge mazes representing the puzzle that was to become a peaceful future for Northern Ireland. To encourage a sense of common ownership, the maze was planted by people from all over Northern Ireland, plus nearly 4,000 school children. Planted in 2000
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Stunning views from here across the Silent Valley and the Mourne Mountains. Ben Crom is a gravity dam, meaning it is made of concrete and designed so that the dam's own weight stabilises it against the force of the water. The dam was completed in 1957
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The Castle Park boating pond is a pretty little oasis in the heart of the charming seaside town of Newcastle. It features a number of swan boats that you can pedal around the lake on for a small fee.
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It's both a surprise and a delight to find a sandy beach high up in the mountains. This small shore, formed by the beautiful Lough Shanna, makes a perfect spot for a relaxing sit-down and picnic before heading up Slieve Doan.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What unique natural features can I find at the lakes around Tullynasoo?
You can discover diverse natural features, including the surprising sandy beach at Lough Shanna, nestled high in the mountains. Castlewellan Forest Park Lake offers scenic views and is surrounded by one of Europe's most outstanding tree and shrub collections.
Are there family-friendly activities available at the lakes near Tullynasoo?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly activities. The Castle Park Boating Pond in Newcastle is perfect for families, offering swan boats to pedal. Castlewellan Forest Park, which includes its lake, features a hedge maze and various walking trails suitable for all ages. The Castlewellan Peace Maze is also a popular family attraction.
What historical or cultural sites are near the lakes in Tullynasoo?
Near the lakes, you can visit the impressive View of Castlewellan Castle. This Scottish baronial castle, built in the mid-1800s, offers a grand view over the lake within Castlewellan Forest Park. While not open to the public, its exterior and surrounding arboretum are well worth seeing. Additionally, the Castlewellan Peace Maze is a significant cultural landmark.
What kind of walking and hiking trails can I find around the lakes?
The lakes around Tullynasoo offer a variety of walking and hiking trails. Castlewellan Forest Park provides numerous scenic walking trails around its lake. For more extensive hiking, you can explore routes like the 'View of Castlewellan Castle – Castlewellan Lake loop' which is an easy hike, or more moderate trails such as 'Slievenaslat Summit – View of Castlewellan Castle loop'. Find more options on the Hiking around Tullynasoo guide.
Are there opportunities for cycling or mountain biking near the lakes?
Yes, Castlewellan Forest Park is a hub for cycling, featuring 27km of dedicated Mountain Bike Trails. You can also find gravel biking routes, such as the 'View of Castlewellan Castle – Castlewellan Lake loop'. Explore more cycling options on the Gravel biking around Tullynasoo guide.
Where can I go for a relaxing picnic by a lake?
The sandy beach at Lough Shanna is an ideal spot for a relaxing sit-down and picnic, especially before or after a hike up Slieve Doan. The lawns around the lake at Castlewellan Castle also provide a perfect setting for a picnic.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Tullynasoo?
Visitors particularly enjoy the diverse offerings, from the unique sandy beach at Lough Shanna to the recreational boating at Castle Park Boating Pond. The scenic beauty and extensive trails of Castlewellan Forest Park Lake, with its stunning castle views and arboretum, are also highly appreciated.
Are there any running trails near the lakes?
Yes, there are several running trails available. For example, you can find routes like the 'View of Mourne AONB – View of Castlewellan Castle loop' or the 'Slievenaslat Summit – View of Castlewellan Castle loop'. More running options are detailed in the Running Trails around Tullynasoo guide.
Can I bring my dog to the lake areas?
Many areas around the lakes are dog-friendly. For instance, Castlewellan Forest Park, which encompasses its lake, is generally dog-friendly, offering various trails for you and your pet to enjoy. The Castlewellan Peace Maze is also dog-friendly.
What kind of views can I expect around the lakes?
The lakes offer a variety of picturesque views. From Lough Shanna, you can enjoy mountain vistas. Castlewellan Castle provides a grand view over its lake, and Castlewellan Forest Park Lake offers incredible panoramic views and scenic landscapes.
Are there any lakes suitable for boating or water activities?
The Castle Park Boating Pond in Newcastle is specifically designed for recreational boating, featuring swan boats for visitors to pedal. While swimming is generally not allowed in larger lakes like Castlewellan Lake, fishing and other non-motorized boating activities may be permitted.
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