Castlewellan Lake and the arboretum
An easy loop of the lake below Castlewellan Castle, past one of the finest tree collections in Ireland.
- Distance
- 4.4 km
- Ascent
- 80 m
- Time
- 1–1.5 h
- Grade
- Easy
- Route
- Circular
- High point
- 159 m
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Route mapped on from OpenStreetMap paths, with heights from EU-DEM terrain data; not yet checked on the ground by TRXO. Added to TRXO on . For planning only: always navigate with an up-to-date map such as OS Explorer or Harvey. How we make our routes.
About this walk
Castlewellan Lake and the arboretum is an easy 4.4 km circular walk with 80 m of ascent, taking 1 to 1.5 hours. It starts at Castlewellan Forest Park (grid reference SB 426 923).
Castlewellan Forest Park is centred on a lake below a Scottish-baronial castle, with the Mournes rising behind. This walk follows the lakeside path right round, with views back to the castle.
On the way you pass the walled garden of the Annesley arboretum, one of the great tree collections in Ireland, and a peace maze. The paths are mostly level and suit buggies.
Route
-
1
The lakeside
Follow the path right round the lake.
-
2
The arboretum
Detour into the walled arboretum on the way back.
Summit
Questions about this walk
- How long does Castlewellan Lake and the arboretum take?
- Most walkers take 1–1.5 hours for the 4.4 km route, which has 80 m of ascent. That allows for short stops; give yourself longer in winter, in poor weather or with a group.
- Where does the walk start, and where can I park?
- It starts at Castlewellan Forest Park (grid reference SB 426 923). Car park in the forest park (charge).
- Can I get there by public transport?
- Not easily: there's no regular bus or train to the start, so you'll need a car, a lift or a long walk in.
- How hard is it?
- It's graded easy. Level, surfaced lakeside paths.
- Can I take my dog?
- Yes, dogs are welcome on this walk. Keep them on a lead near livestock.
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