Attractions and Places To See around Ballykeel - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Ballykeel include a variety of historical sites, natural features, and cultural experiences across County Down, County Antrim, and the Newry, Mourne and Down area. This region offers diverse landscapes, from ancient castles and monastic ruins to expansive nature reserves and mountain ranges. Visitors can explore numerous points of interest, including significant landmarks and scenic outdoor areas. More than 20 hidden gems are available to explore and visit in the vicinity of Ballykeel.
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Last updated: May 10, 2026
Murlough Nature Reserve Boardwalk
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View of Twelve Arches Bridge
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Maghera Round Tower
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Clough Castle Ruins
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Dundrum Castle
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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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The ancient stone arches are perfectly reflected in the calm water, creating an image of timeless elegance. Cycling along here almost feels like a journey back in time - as if you are capturing a moment in another time.
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This historic 10th century tower stands in idyllic countryside and offers a fascinating insight into Ireland's early Christian history. Access is via narrow country lanes; there is a small car park but it is not always well signposted. The tower is on private farmland but access is usually permitted.
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The ruined round tower marks the site of an early church founded by the 6th-century St Domongart (Donard), after whom the highest peak in the Mourne Mountains is named. The tower stood to its full height until the early 18th century, when it fell in a great storm, It is built of local granite boulders and shale. Small scale excavation in 1965 showed evidence of Early Christian activity near the tower. In the oval graveyard east of the parish church is the ruin of the medieval parish church, probably 13th century in date.
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Wonderful ornate, twelve arched bridge that seems out of place in this rural setting. The surrounding fields often flood during periods of heavy rain, necessitating a longer bridge than normally appears necessary. Hence the 'Twelve Arches'. The bridge was built sometime after 1836.
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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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The beautiful Dundrum Castle is located on a hilltop near Dundrum village. Its elevated position provides fantastic panoramic views across Dundrum, the Carrigs Estuary, the Mourne Mountain range and out to the Irish Sea. The castle itself was constructed by John de Courcy at the beginning of the 13th century. It's a fine example of a historic medieval castle of its time.
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Twelve Arches is a stunning old stone bridge that carries the old Newcastle – Dundrum/Belfast road across the Carrigs River. There are a few picnic benches here and wonderful views up and down the river.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly attractions around Ballykeel?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Murlough Nature Reserve Boardwalk offers an easy walk through sand dunes, perfect for all ages. The View of Twelve Arches Bridge provides a scenic spot for picnics. Additionally, the Ulster Folk Park and Transport Museum offers a historically accurate recreation of an Ulster town, and Kilbroney Forest Park features a Narnia Trail and a kids' play area.
What historical sites can I visit near Ballykeel?
The region is rich in history. You can explore Dundrum Castle, a 13th-century castle with panoramic views. Other notable sites include the ruins of Clough Castle, an Anglo-Norman earthwork, and the ancient Maghera Round Tower, marking an early church site. Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, Inch Abbey, and Scrabo Tower also offer significant historical insights.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints or natural features?
For breathtaking views, visit Dundrum Castle, which offers panoramic vistas of the Carrigs Estuary and Mourne Mountains. Slieve Gullion Summit provides fantastic views and is home to the highest Passage Tomb in the British Isles. Scrabo Tower overlooks Strangford Lough, and the Mourne Mountains themselves offer stunning landscapes for hiking and photography.
Are there any easy walking trails suitable for all abilities?
Yes, the Murlough Nature Reserve Boardwalk is an easy and accessible option. The Silent Valley and Ben Crom Reservoirs within the Mourne Mountains also offer serene walks. For more options, you can find easy hiking routes like the Dundrum Coastal Path and Murlough North Point loop in the Hiking around Ballykeel guide.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The area offers diverse outdoor activities. Hiking is popular in the Mourne Mountains and Tollymore Forest Park. Cycling routes are available, such as the 'Twelve Arches to Tollymore Forest Park loop' which you can find in the Cycling around Ballykeel guide. Running trails are also plentiful, with options like the River Quoile loop detailed in the Running Trails around Ballykeel guide. Birdwatching, kayaking, and sailing are popular on Strangford Lough.
Are there any dog-friendly walks or attractions?
Many outdoor areas are dog-friendly. The Maghera Round Tower and Clough Castle Ruins are generally accessible with dogs. Tollymore Forest Park and Kilbroney Forest Park offer extensive walking trails where dogs are welcome, usually on a lead. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
What cultural experiences are available in the Ballykeel area?
Beyond historical sites, you can visit the Ulster Folk Park and Transport Museum for a glimpse into past life and transport history, including a Titanic exhibition. The Down County Museum in Downpatrick explores local history, and the St. Patrick Centre tells the story of Ireland's patron saint. In Belfast, the Titanic Belfast museum offers an immersive experience, and Crumlin Road Gaol provides historical tours.
What is the best time of year to visit Ballykeel attractions?
The best time to visit largely depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer (April to September) offer milder weather, ideal for hiking, cycling, and exploring natural features like the Murlough Nature Reserve Boardwalk and the Mourne Mountains. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer crisp, quiet walks, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
Are there any unique or 'hidden gem' outdoor spots?
While popular, the View of Twelve Arches Bridge offers a surprisingly tranquil spot for views and picnics. The North Cairn of Slieve Gullion, though smaller than the South Cairn, is significant for its Bronze Age finds and is located near 'Calliagh Beara's Lough', offering a more secluded historical experience. Glenariffe Waterfalls & Forest Park, located in the Glens of Antrim, is another beautiful, less crowded natural escape.
Can I find places for wildlife spotting around Ballykeel?
Absolutely. The Murlough Nature Reserve Boardwalk is a prime location, being a diverse ecosystem home to mammals, birds, and numerous insects. Strangford Lough is a vast sea lough and a special area of conservation, making it ideal for birdwatching. Tollymore Forest Park also supports diverse wildlife within its woodlands and along the Shimna River.
What are some notable landmarks or architectural sites?
Beyond castles, Belfast City Hall is an iconic landmark known for its impressive architecture. St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast is considered the city's most important church. The Twelve Arches Bridge itself is a stunning old stone structure with historical significance. Castle Ward, with its unique Gothic and Classical architecture, is also a significant landmark.
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