Lakeside glamping near Newcastle
Pitch up near Newcastle for sea and mountain views, forest parks, and plenty of hiking.
- Newcastle
Popular camping styles for Newcastle
Lakeside glamping near Newcastle guide
Overview
This seaside resort is a popular holiday spot thanks to its beach and promenade, as well as its backdrop of the scenic Slieve Donard and Mourne Mountains. There’s lots to do in this corner of County Down, with pony-trekking, fishing, and forest parks, but it’s also easy to get off the beaten track. Hikers or climbers will find opportunities for exploring in the Mourne Mountains AONB) with stunning coastal views from the top. The area has options for campers of all kinds, with a mix of coastal, mountain, and forest camping parks.
Where to go
Newcastle Town
Plenty of caravan and camping parks dot the coast, all with sweeping sea and mountain views. It’s easy to find one within walking distance of town, with many facing the beach. Some offer caravan rentals and motorhome facilities, plus outdoor play areas and laundry.
Mourne Mountains
To find yourself surrounded by nature, head to Tollymore Forest Park, set at the foot of the Mourne Mountains and just a 10-minute drive from Newcastle. With forest trails, a river walk, and views of the coast, you can hike right up into mountains such as Slieve Donard and Slieve Commedagh. The forest park is open year-round for camping, with grass for tents and tarmac for motorhomes or campervans. The campsite at Meelmore Lodge has direct access to the Mournes, while nearby Gorse Hill Farm features glamping pods.
Castlewellan
About 15 minutes’ drive from Newcastle, Castlewellan Forest Park is perfect for casual time in the outdoors thanks to walking and mountain biking trails, gardens and an arboretum, horseback riding, and lake fishing. The park has camping facilities for tents and vehicles on both grass and tarmac with toilets, showers, and electricity—just be sure to book in advance for a site in the park.
Coastal Route
Head a few miles south along the Mourne Coastal Route from Newcastle and you’ll come across a handful of private field tent campgrounds. Go further south toward Annalong and the fishing port of Kilkeel for excellent seafood, plus holiday parks with beach access and seafront pitches. If you’re exploring around Carlingford Lough, the best campgrounds are on Cranfield Beach just outside Kilkeel town.
When to go
July and August are high season and school holiday times, so you may need to book your campsite in advance for these months. Forest parks are open year-round, but some campgrounds close for winter. July 12 is a public holiday in Northern Ireland and the Newcastle Festival of Flight airshow is held annually in June, so expect these times to be busy.
Know before you go
- Weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for rain and cool temperatures in any season.
- Biting midges can be a problem around Newcastle.
- Wild camping is not permitted in this area. Some campgrounds and forest parks close to campers and touring vehicles during storms.
