- Day 1: Begin in Downpatrick, visiting the Saint Patrick Centre. Enjoy lunch with champ. Explore Down Cathedral in the afternoon.
- Day 2: Take a morning trip to the Mourne Mountains for a hike in Tollymore Forest Park. Spend the afternoon at Newcastle’s promenade and beach.
- Day 3: Visit Strangford Lough for a morning kayak tour. Explore the historic village of Greyabbey in the afternoon.
Couple
A couple might plan their three days around peaceful gardens and historic walks. On the first day, visit Mount Stewart to stroll through the formal gardens and along the lake paths in quiet surroundings, taking time to admire the architectural features and open views.
The second day could include Down Cathedral in Downpatrick for a look at the historic building and grounds linked to early Christian heritage, followed by a gentle exploration of nearby streets.The third day, head to Hillsborough Castle and Gardens for a tour of the state rooms and a relaxed walk through the landscaped grounds, ending with calm moments in the parkland.
Family
A family can structure three days to suit everyone. The first day starts at Tollymore Forest Park for woodland trails and open spaces that engage the children and appeal to the father’s outdoor preferences, with picnic areas and café options for the mother.
The second day heads to Murlough Nature Reserve for beach walks, dune exploration that suits outdoor interests and provides play space for the children, plus nearby spots for the mother to sample local food and browse shops.
The third day includes Castle Ward for grounds to roam, trails, and activities that keep the family active, with time in nearby towns for the mother to enjoy regional treats and local stores.
Solo Traveller
A solo traveller can enjoy a calm three-day visit focused on personal pace and reflection. On the first day, begin at Strangford Lough for a quiet drive or walk along the shores with views across the water.
The second day follows to the Mourne Mountains area for an easy trail or viewpoint access near Slieve Donard for serene landscape observation.
The third day takes in Castlewellan Forest Park or similar wooded settings for gentle paths and peaceful surroundings, perhaps combined with time at a historic site like Mount Stewart for solitary garden exploration.
Itineraries
Antrim – Armagh – Carlow – Cavan – Clare – Cork – Derry – Donegal – Down – Dublin – Fermanagh – Galway – Kerry – Kildare – Kilkenny – Laois – Leitrim – Limerick – Longford – Louth – Mayo – Meath – Monaghan – Offaly – Roscommon – Sligo – Tipperary – Tyrone – Waterford – Westmeath – Wexford – Wicklow
County Down:
Ireland’s county Down offers a mix of historic sites and scenic landscapes, with Downpatrick’s Saint Patrick Centre and cathedral providing insights into Ireland’s patron saint. The Mourne Mountains offer hiking trails with sweeping views, while Strangford Lough provides kayaking and wildlife spotting. Other attractions include the historic Tollymore Forest Park. Down is Ireland’s 12th largest county by size (2,447 square km) and fourth largest by population (553,261). Population peaked at 361,446 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 204,303, in 1911. In terms of hospitality, Down is Ireland’s 18th most visited tourist county with around 127,000 international visitors per year.
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