Mourne Guide / Castlewellan Lakeside Walk

Castlewellan Lake

Castlewellan Lakeside Walk.

Circle the lake on a relatively flat trail with castle and woodland views.

Castlewellan Lake. Photo credit & licence
Distance · Approx. circuit
~3.9 km
Difficulty
Easy

Before your visit

Start
Castlewellan Lakeside car park J335364; green waymarkers
Distance
Approximately 3.9 km, complete circuit.
Terrain
Relatively flat, even paths shared with an easy mountain-bike route. Some buggies may suit; check the exact route for your needs.
Dogs
Keep dogs under control, clean up and use leads where signs or staff require.
Facilities
Parking, toilets and picnic facilities are listed at the park. Check current opening and charges; refreshments may not be available along the walk.

Checked 9 October 2026. WalkNI — Castlewellan Lakeside · Forest Service / nidirect — Walking in forests

For current opening, charges and access, check the operator before travelling. Bring what you need rather than relying on refreshments being open.

The walk

Follow the green waymarkers around Castlewellan Lake, passing near the Ice House with views of the castle. The trail is shared with the easy mountain-bike route, so watch for other users.

Underfoot

Relatively flat, even and consistent surfaces. For buggies or mobility needs, check the park’s current accessibility advice.

Start & access

Start: Castlewellan Forest Park Lakeside car park. Source grid reference J335364.

The forest park is signposted from Castlewellan Main Street. Parking charges apply. Follow green waymarkers and check the park's current access information and signs for diversions.

Route map & access at WalkNI — Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland

Take a suitable map and know how to use it. Check the landowner’s latest access notices before setting out.

Give yourself enough time

Allow for your group’s pace, terrain, stops and daylight. Leave enough time and energy for the return journey.

Sources & walk details

Checked 8 October 2026. Original grade: Easy. Distances rounded for comparison. Where time or ascent is unavailable, no estimate is supplied. A summit height is different from a walk’s total ascent. About the route information.