There has been a massive growth in mountain bike trail centres in Northern Ireland in the past 3 years - whether looking for a family day out or an adrenaline pumping ride. "Castlewellan Forest Park boasts all of this and more". With superb red (including black options), blue and green grade trails, and a pump-track, Castlewellan is a must-visit for mountain bikers of all ages and abilities. Trailhead Facilities Car Parking(£) - Café - Showers - Bike Hire - Toilets - Bike Wash Located at the trailhead, Life offer bike hire from £20 per half day. Call 028 4377 0714 for more info. Getting There Castlewellan is 8 miles NW of Newcastle on the A50, or signposted off the A24 Belfast Newcastle road from Clough (A25). Park right at the trail head in the Forest Park itself. Trail Description One of Northern Ireland's most famous lakes, a stunning Victorian Castle, the world's second largest hedge maze, a pump-track, incredible panoramic views and flowing singletrack; all just minutes from The Kings Inn. The red trail enjoys the initial flowing singletrack and incredible views found on the blue trail before splitting off and ascending behind Castlewellan Castle and past a number of little known smaller lakes. The fun then really begins when both the red and black options descend either side of Slievenaslat before sweeping back around to Cypress Pond. There is a further black option 'Dolly's Chute' set to get your heart racing with 'Moorish Return' always a crowd pleaser for the homeward leg back to the trailhead. |