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As with most holiday destinations there are plusses and minuses. We will try to give you an honest appraisal of what is available here. On the plus side, if you like countryside, sailing, fishing, golf, good company or a night in the pub, then you are pretty close to heaven.
It would be silly not to make reference to the political situation. The evidence of the last thirty years is easily seen. However, the people are amongst the most friendly you will ever meet. You will be welcomed into the company over a beer and conversation of the highest quality is certain. So, what to do..... Sailing: There are three sailing clubs around the town and many others along the coast.
Beaches: The beaches of the Down coast are all within easy reach and most easily exceed the European Standard of cleanliness. The water is definitely clean, but it is certainly invigorating!
Forest/Country Parks: On our doorstep is Delamont Park. Situated on the shores of the Lough it has pleasant walking, a children's playground and cafe. At the foot of the Mournes are the forest parks of Tollymoor and Castlewellan. Both are extensive, covering hundreds of square miles of managed gardens and forest. Tollymoor in particular will take at least one day of your holiday to explore. Fishing: Both course and game fishing are available. The local Loughs provide good pike and perch fishing and there are many stocked trout loughs. During the Summer months a run of sea trout and salmon is available in the local rivers. Horse Riding: A number of Equestrian Centres are in the area. We understand that these cater for both the novice and the more experienced riders. Eating Out: Within the area are a number of pubs which provide excellent quality food. Further a field are restaurants of the highest quality and in Belfast there are internationally renowned establishments. And Finally.....THE PUB! The Local is a feature of life and the welcome here is hearty. In the High Street is the Dufferin Arms which provides quality food, drink and conversation. On most Saturdays there is a music session which attracts both performers and audiences from near and far. The session starts at around four in the afternoon and finishes later.....sometimes MUCH later. |
The minuses include the weather which can be a little 'damp' at times. But if it were drier we would not have the lush green that Ireland is rightly famous for. Probably the only other downside is the transport system. This is adequate but you have to remember that this is a small country town. There are buses, but they are not frequent and a car (while not essential) is certainly a benefit.
Golf: We are not golfer's, so this is second hand information. I understand the within a forty five minute drive there are twenty six Golf Clubs, ranging from the local clubs to those of international stature, such as the course at Newcastle (see left). Ancient Houses: Many National Trust properties are close by and are open for most of the year. When it comes to castles, we have more than our fair share; it seems that around every corner is a relic from Norman times. Most are open to the public and remain very interesting.
Walking: The local lanes provide walking of a very relaxed nature. Traffic is light and beautiful views of the Lough are easily found. The countryside is unspoiled and a good variety of wildlife can be seen. Many birds are readily in sight, ranging from kingfishers along our local riverbank to magnificent buzzards (which are making a comeback. We have been taking a keen interest in their resurgence. From what was a dwindling population they can now be seen within a couple of miles of the town).
There are good populations of badger and red squirrels and if you are really lucky you may spot an otter along the Quoile River. Should you be a serious walker then the Mountains of Mourne are for you. The Mournes are quite wonderful, their beauty staggering and the peace and serenity that can be experienced there is exceptional. Only thirty minutes drive from Killyleagh, you will find yourself in another world; the landscape is much harsher and for the experienced walker all the peaks are accessible. Equally, should you prefer a more gentle approach, it is quite possible to drive to the centre of the mountains, park and stroll at your leisure. |
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