Newry Travel Guide

Discover the rich history and natural beauty of Newry, Northern Ireland with our comprehensive travel guide. Find out the best things to do, places to stay, and local food to try.


Introduction to Newry

Newry is a city located in County Down, Northern Ireland. It is situated on the River Clanrye and is surrounded by the Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion. Known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and friendly locals, Newry is a must-visit destination for travelers visiting Northern Ireland. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at the top attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Newry

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Newry Cathedral: A stunning Cathedral dating back to the 1820s, located in the heart of the city centre.
  2. Newry and Mourne Museum: Discover the local history of Newry at this museum, which features exhibits on the city’s industrial past, its role in the Irish War of Independence and the Troubles, and more.
  3. Narrow Water Castle: A beautiful 16th-century castle that is teeming with history, and features an impressive display of armory and weaponry.

Natural Attractions of Newry: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Ring of Gullion: This area of outstanding natural beauty is known for its unique geology and stunning scenic vistas.
  2. Silent Valley Reservoir: A popular outdoor attraction, this beautiful reservoir is surrounded by mountains and offers hiking trails, a visitor centre, and bird watching opportunities.
  3. Slieve Gullion Forest Park: Located at the heart of the Ring of Gullion, this park features stunning forest hiking trails, a lake, and a visitor centre.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Newry

  1. The Mourne Mountains: Known for its vast range of hiking opportunities, the Mourne Mountains is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The routes vary from a half-day scenic trek to a multi-day trek across the peaks and valleys.
  2. Carlingford Lough Greenway: A 7km trail leads from the Newry Canal Towpath onto Carlingford Lough’s shorefront, passing the medieval town of Carlingford along the way.
  3. Slieve Gullion Forest Park: A perfect selection for mountain bikers of every level, this park offers various biking trails to explore the beauty of nature.

Best Things to Do in Newry: Activities and Tours

  1. Explore the historic city centre: Take a stroll around the city and marvel at the Georgian architecture, browse the designer shops and craft markets, or visit the farmers’ market for local specialties.
  2. Visit the Newry Canal Towpath: Enjoy a peaceful stroll or leisurely cycle along the Newry Canal towpath, stopping at one of the many pubs for a pint of Guinness along the way.
  3. Take a tour of the Kilbroney Park: A 97-acre park located in Rostrevor, featuring mountain biking trails, a maze, and playgrounds.

Week-Long Itinerary for Newry

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the historic city centre, visit St Patrick’s Roman Catholic Cathedral and British Military Memorial
Day 2 Hike Mourne Mountains and drive the Scenic Drive of The Silent Valley
Day 3 Take a tour of the Newry and Mourne Museum and learn about the history and culture of the city
Day 4 Visit the Narrow Water Castle and learn about its unique history
Day 5 Relax in the beautiful Slieve Gullion Forest Park
Day 6 Cycle along the Newry Canal Towpath
Day 7 Travel to nearby Carlingford and enjoy the medieval town’s charm and beautiful scenery

Food and Drink Scene of Newry

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Ulster Fry: A traditional breakfast comprising egg, bacon, sausage, black pudding, white pudding, tomato, beans, and fried bread.
  2. Champ: A creamy and indulgent mashed potato dish that goes perfectly with any meat dish.
  3. Irish Stew: A hearty and warming dish made from tender lamb, root vegetables, and seasonings.

Local Beverages

  1. Guinness: A classic Irish beer that is perfect for enjoying with friends at one of the many pubs scattered throughout the city.
  2. Bushmills Whiskey: A delicious whiskey that has been enjoyed by Irish people for generations.
  3. Magners Cider: A refreshing drink perfect for warm summer days.

Where to Stay in Newry: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Canal Court Hotel: A luxury hotel located in the city centre, featuring an award-winning restaurant, spa, and fitness centre.
  2. The Shipyard Armagh Bed & Breakfast: A cosy Guesthouse that offers comfortable rooms, located in the nearby city of Armagh.
  3. Denvir’s Coaching Inn: A charming hotel located in the heart of the city centre, featuring a restaurant and bar and all the modern luxuries expected from a hotel.

What to Buy in Newry: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Newry Crystal: A beautiful and intricate glass that is made in the city centre.
  2. Linen: A soft and luxurious fabric that is renowned from Northern Ireland.
  3. Irish Whiskey: A delicious gift for any whiskey lover.

Local Culture and Customs of Newry

Newry is famous for its hospitality and welcoming nature, and its locals are known for their warmth and friendliness. The city has a rich history and culture, which is celebrated through events such as the Newry Music Festival, the Irish National Fleadh Cheoil, and the Newry Drama Festival.

Best Time to Visit Newry

The best time to visit Newry is between May and September when the weather is warm and pleasant, and the hiking and biking routes are at their best. However, Spring brings its own charm and color with blooming flowers and trees.

Do’s and Don’ts of Newry

Do:

  1. Try the local cuisine such as the Ulster Fry, Champ or Irish Stew
  2. Leave a generous tip for your waiter or waitress at bars and restaurants
  3. Visit the local pubs and enjoy a pint of Guinness

Don’t:

  1. Get involved in political discussions as they can get heated in Northern Ireland.
  2. Leave rubbish behind on hikes and walks. Clean up after yourself.
  3. Jaywalk on busy streets. Always cross at designated crosswalks.

Safety and Health

Safety in Newry

Newry is generally a safe city and has a low crime rate. However, it’s still important to take basic safety precautions like avoiding isolated areas alone at night and keeping an eye on your belongings in the city center.

Health in Newry

The city has well-equipped hospitals, and emergency services include ambulance services and police. However, it’s advisable to get comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies before traveling to Newry.

Getting to Newry: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Newry

  1. George Best Belfast City Airport: Located around 30 miles from Newry city center and connects to Belfast International Airport, Dublin Airport and other regional destinations in Europe.
  2. Dublin Airport: Located about 60 miles from Newry, with strong connections to major cities in the UK and Europe.

Bus Stations Near Newry

  1. Newry Bus Station: Located in the heart of the city center, with multiple regional and national bus services connecting it to larger cities like Belfast, Dublin, and Galway.
  2. Dublin Busaran Station: Connected to Newry by fast buses and trains, many services run on a daily basis.

Other Options

  1. Car Rental: Many international car rental companies such as Hertz, Europcar, and Budget have offices in Newry.
  2. Train Travel: Trains run daily from local railway stations to Belfast, Dublin and other regional destinations.

How to Get Around in Newry

Newry is a small city, and it can easily be explored on foot. Buses run frequently and are quite affordable, making them a convenient option for visiting sites on the outskirts of the city. Taxis are also readily available, and rental cars are an option for those who prefer more independence.

Where to Go Next from Newry: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Belfast: The capital city of Northern Ireland is located approximately thirty miles north of Newry. A stunning city, with many things to do, this is not a destination to be missed out on.
  2. Dublin: The capital of Ireland, this beautiful city is located about sixty miles south of Newry and is a popular destination among tourists. A trip to Dublin is a must for sightseeing and experiencing Irish culture.

Conclusion

From its rich history and welcoming culture to its breathtaking landscapes and remarkable hiking and biking routes, Newry is a destination that has something for everyone. Its natural beauty and refined architecture make it the perfect destination to relax and escape the rush of city life. Newry is a must-visit destination for those travelling to Northern Ireland, and its charm is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.

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