Top 10 Things to do in County Down, Northern Ireland

Mount Stewart is one of the most inspiring and unusual gardens in the National Trust's ownership. The garden reflects a rich tapestry of design and great planting artistry that was the hallmark of Edith, Lady Londonderry. The mild climate of Strangford Lough allows astonishing levels of planting experimentation. The formal areas exude a strong Mediterranean feel and resemble an Italian villa landscape; the wooded areas support a range of plants from all corners of the world, ensuring something to see whatever the season. Mount Stewart House re-opened after our 3 year long restoration project. We've brought back the elegance and charm of the house when it was home of the 7th Marchioness Edith, Lady Londonderry and her family in the early 20th century and we look forward to welcoming you to enjoy in all its splendor. Six kilometers of walking trails wind through a landscape ‘lost in time’ and establishes Mount Stewart’s reputation as one of the best-preserved Irish country demesnes.

Castle Ward will take you on a journey of discovery. The 18th-century eccentric house with two distinctly different styles, classical and Gothic, will entice you to explore further. This truly beautiful 332-hectare (820-acre) walled demesne, with walking trails, exotic garden, stunning vistas and picturesque farmyard, will unlock your imagination through family history, leisure pursuits, events and industrial heritage. A children's pastimes centre and laundry room are a short walk from the house in the stableyard, alongside a gift shop, second-hand bookshop and tea-room.

Explore Northern Ireland’s royal residence. Located just 20 minutes from Belfast, the restored and re-imagined Hillsborough Castle and Gardens has something for everyone. Inside the castle, discover the fascinating history of the re-presented State Rooms still used by the royal family. Enjoy delicious food and drink in our relaxing café and explore 100 acres of beautiful gardens, including the newly-restored Walled Garden, the previously unseen Lost Garden, meandering waterways and picturesque glens.

Explore thatched cottages, farms, schools and shops as you experience life from over 100 years ago. Chat to costumed visitor guides as they demonstrate traditional crafts and meet farm animals in the beautiful parkland of the Ulster Folk Museum.

Slieve Gullion Forest Park offers the unmissable opportunity to experience tranquil woodland trails, stunning views across the Ring of Gullion and surrounding landscape and top class facilities for walkers and families. Play in the Adventure Playpark; explore the Giant’s Lair in the wonderful Hawthorn Hill Forest Nature Reserve and woodland trails, or sit back in the cafe and watch nature.

Pickie Fun Park was extensively redeveloped in 2012. Children can play in the adventure playground,enjoy the watery fun of the splash pads, enjoy a ride on the electric car track or climb aboard the Pickie Puffer for a narrow-gauge railway journey around the colourful landscape. All the family can pedal a giant Swan around the shallow waters of the lovely Lagoon, compete with each other in our mini golf course or take a break in the cafe. The fun park is at the gateway to the Marine Gardens, a delightful stretch of coast for leisurely walks. There are panoramic views of Bangor Bay and the hills of Antrim beyond. Just take a seat, relax and marvel at the wonders all around, or eat your picnic before making your way round to Wilson's Point. This is a great place to relax and enjoy the views over Belfast Lough.