Mourne Guide / Tollymore Forest Park

Tollymore Forest Park.

River woodland, old bridges and an arboretum at the foot of the Mournes.

Shimna River in Tollymore Forest Park. A historic photograph of the wider park, not a trail map or current conditions.

Shimna River in Tollymore Forest Park. A historic photograph of the wider park, not a trail map or current conditions. Photo credit & licence

The Shimna River winds through Tollymore’s woodland, past bridges and riverside scenery. Choose a short arboretum walk, a river trail or a longer forest and hillside outing.

Planting in the arboretum began in 1752 as part of a Georgian landscape. Its tree collection gives you plenty to look at even on a shorter visit.

Setting
Foot of the Mournes, near Newcastle
Arboretum history
Planting began in 1752

What to look out for

  • Shimna River and stone bridges
  • Arboretum with eighteenth-century origins
  • Published trails of different lengths

Plan your visit

Read the Forest Service trail information and current notices. Use the information-board map, suitable footwear and signed routes; forestry work or weather can affect access.

Visitor information & access →

Sources & further reading

Checked 2026-10-08: nidirect / Forest Service.