staycation newcastle

There was probably not a year that passed from the age of 1 to maybe my 20’s that I didn’t visit with family or friends though I do feel it isn’t the case for those born from 2000 which I’d love to change.

Generation Z & Generation Alpha (Born 1995 - Present) this is particularly for you.

Newcastle, Co. Down, is a charming seaside town nestled at the foot of the Mourne Mountains in Northern Ireland. Known for its natural beauty, the town offers a variety of outdoor activities and attractions, making it a perfect destination for families, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike. One of the top attractions is Tollymore Forest Park, a vast woodland with scenic walking trails, rivers, and stunning views of the Mourne Mountains. It’s perfect for hiking, picnicking, or exploring with children. Another must-see is Murlough National Nature Reserve, a 6,000-year-old sand dune system, ideal for walks and bird watching, with access to Newcastle’s beautiful beach. For families, Newcastle Promenade offers a classic seaside experience, complete with ice cream parlors, cafés, and shops. The promenade leads to Royal County Down Golf Club, one of the best golf courses in the world, which also offers stunning views of the coastline and mountains.

Adventurers can enjoy mountain biking, horseback riding, or even paragliding over the Mournes. For those looking for relaxation, the town’s peaceful surroundings and cozy accommodations provide the perfect escape. Whether you’re exploring nature or enjoying the town’s hospitality, Newcastle, Co. Down, offers something for everyone.

On to our review at Tollymore Lodge

The drive from Lurgan to Newcastle, Co. Down, takes about an hour and offers scenic views of the Northern Irish countryside. As you pass through towns like Banbridge and Castlewellan, you’ll see rolling hills, lush greenery, and glimpses of the Mourne Mountains. A highlight is stopping at Castlewellan Forest Park, where you can explore the lake, gardens, and famous Peace Maze. The approach to Newcastle reveals breathtaking coastal and mountain views, building excitement for the destination.

Although i’m not overly familiar with the area we had no trouble finding the lodge thanks to my reliable maps app we got there without a hitch. Tollymore Lodge is situated in an area that feels wonderfully secluded, providing peace and tranquility, yet it is easily accessible. You can actually see Slieve Donard from the beautiful garden.

Martina the owner was awaiting our arrival, she actually welcomed us earlier than planned and gave us a tour taking time out of her schedule so we could get off and explore.

When entering I was taken aback, the room was modern, open-plan design with a sleek kitchen, dining, and living area seamlessly integrated. The kitchen has clean lines with light wood countertops and modern appliances, while the adjacent round dining table adds a cozy touch. The beige sectional sofa with plush pillows dominates the living area, creating a comfortable and inviting space. Accents like fresh flowers, soft lighting, and glass-topped tables enhance the room’s warmth and contemporary charm.

There were 2 Double Bedrooms with inviting designs and calming color palettes. The bed, adorned with soft grey pillows and a plush throw, sits beneath a serene beach-themed canvas, adding a calming coastal vibe. A sleek bedside table with modern drawers is topped with a soft-glow lamp and a small decorative plant, creating a relaxing ambiance. The textured rug enhances the comfort of the space, making it a peaceful retreat.

This bathroom features a clean, modern design with white fixtures and light wood flooring. A curved glass shower enclosure adds a sleek touch, while the compact vanity unit provides storage beneath a contemporary basin. The round, decorative mirror with a geometric frame brings a stylish element to the space. Three framed seashell prints on the wall offer a subtle coastal theme, enhancing the bathroom’s calming and fresh atmosphere. Overall, it’s bright and minimalist.

Tollymore Lodge in Newcastle offers an exceptional blend of comfort, luxury, and convenience. During my recent stay with my 3-year-old foster son, I was thoroughly impressed by how well-equipped the lodge was, catering to every need a family could imagine. From the moment we arrived, it was clear everything was throught out with both relaxation and practicality in mind. Equipped with all the modern conveniences you’d expect from a high-end property—Wi-Fi, a fully equipped kitchen, a flat-screen TV, and even a cooking hobs which proved invaluable when traveling with a toddler. Every room felt comfortable and welcoming, and the attention to detail in every

— staycation newcastle — corner of the lodge was exceptional.

What stood out the most for me was how child-friendly the lodge was. It’s rare to find accommodation that genuinely caters to the needs of families with young children, but Tollymore Lodge went above and beyond. The lodge had a selection of kids’ DVDs, which were a lifesaver during quieter moments or when we just wanted to unwind in the evenings. They also left plenty of little treats that were scoffed, which made our stay feel even more special. Martina actually went way above expectations by sourcing a bed safety rail for us. It was these thoughtful touches that made a huge difference and demonstrated the care and consideration put into ensuring we had a fantastic experience.

In summary, Tollymore Lodge exceeded all expectations and provided a wonderful retreat for me and my foster son. Its family-friendly features, luxurious touches, and convenient location make it a top choice for anyone visiting the Newcastle area.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape in nature or a comfortable base for exploring the sights, Tollymore Lodge has everything you could need. I would highly recommend it to anyone.

Tollymore Lodge

19 Tollymore Road, Newcastle, BT33 0JL

You can book on Facebook and Airbnb - search for Tollymore Lodge