Explore the most beautiful scenery in Northern Ireland

Lackan Cottage Farm is situated in arguably the most beautiful part of Northern Ireland, and we are just a short drive away from mountains, forest parks and beaches. There is truly something for everyone here, whether you want to put on your walking boots and view the world from the top of Slieve Donard, or sit in one of the many cafes in Newcastle and watch the sea. We are spoiled for choice when it comes to outdoor activities in Co Down. Some of the best mountain bike trails in europe are nearby, and the area is home to many Game of Thrones film locations. Here are our favourite suggestions for places to visit  and outdoor activities in the area.

escape to the forest

Explore 400 acres of breathtaking woodland on foot or bike, along rivers and up mountains. Tollymore Forest Park is also a Game of Thrones film location. Beautiful at any time of year.

game of thrones

Birch Cottage is ideally placed to explore many Game of Thrones film locations. Tollymore forest park, and the Mourne mountains have appeared on numerous occasions, and Castle Ward –  home of Winterfell, is not far away. We provide full details of Thrones tours, as well as location maps and information.

it’s all right here

Enjoy our private woodland – walk, sit and soak up the peace of the birch woods, or enjoy a campfire in a quiet clearing. Meet our animals, explore the vegetable gardens and orchard. It’s all here.

the amazing maze

Castlewellan Forest Park is home to one of the largest hedge mazes in europe, as well as amazing walks and cycle trails. You will also find the Life Adventure Centre there, who offer bike and e-bike hire, as well as a range of outdoor activities.

scale the heights

Birch Cottage is the ideal base for an MTB holiday in Northern Ireland. The Life Centre in Castlewellan Forest Park is the ideal place from which to explore – mountain bike, electric mountain bike, and canoe hire are all available. Rostrevor and Tollymore also boast some of the finest mountain bike trails in the country – for all abilities.

Silent Valley

Silent Valley is a beautiful spot. There are a number of walking trails, a little restaurant (basic but friendly), and an information centre. The reservoir itself is spectacular, as you can see, and it really is well worth a visit.

Explore the mountains

The Mourne Mountains are just spectacular, and only a few minutes away. There are many walks of varying difficulties in the mountains, and we can provide maps and information so that you’ll find your way around.

“We’ve enjoyed so many local activities (hiking at the Mourne Mountains, Tollymore Park etc) as well as further afield, but after each fun-filled day, we have had the warm, cosy embrace of the cottage to welcome us back”
Sarah & Luke, 2017

Some more ideas

MTB holiday in Northern Ireland

Meet our animals

Newcastle Beach County Down Northern Ireland

Take in the sea air

Walking in the woods

Get back to nature

Great local pubs and live music

Explore local pubs

Lackan Cottage Farm