Dog-Friendly Down: A 24-Hour Dog-Friendly Itinerary In County Down

County Down offers a mix of woodland walks, coastal towns, and relaxed cafés where dogs are welcome alongside their owners. This simple 24-hour itinerary offers a chance to explore the Mourne area while keeping your four-legged companion included at every stop.

Day 1

Lunch at Fodder in the Woods

Start your trip with lunch at Fodder, a bespoke café set within the grounds of Finnebrogue Woods. Open on Saturdays, Fodder offers simple locally produced food, coffee and even a delicious hot chocolate. Also located on the grounds is a small shop selling artisan produce and gifts. Dogs are welcome at the café, making it an easy first stop after the drive.

After eating, take time for a short wander around the woodland grounds. The paths are suitable for a relaxed stroll and provide space for dogs to stretch their legs before the next part of the journey.

From Fodder, continue south towards the Mourne area. The drive offers views of open countryside before the mountains begin to appear on the horizon.

Check in at Hikers House

Located in Newcastle, The Hikers House is a great choice of accommodation that is self-catering and has a slightly quirky feel. The interiors take inspiration from hiking and the nearby Mourne Mountains, creating a comfortable, design-led space while still including the practical features you’ll appreciate after a day outdoors.

The outside decking at the property looks out towards both Slieve Donard and Slieve Commedagh, giving guests a way to take in incredible views of the mountain scenery without leaving the doorstep.

For visitors travelling with dogs, the accommodation provides a convenient base in Newcastle, with space to unwind after a day exploring the surrounding area.

Afternoon walk at Tollymore Forest Park

A short drive away, Tollymore Forest Park provides several walking routes through woodland and along the River Shimna. The park is known for its stone bridges, open glades and mountain views.

Many of the trails are relatively flat, making them suitable for an easy to moderate walk rather than a full hike. Dogs are welcome throughout the park, though they should be kept on a lead where signage requests it.

Evening meal in Newcastle at Hugh McCann’s

Finish the day in Newcastle with dinner at Hugh McCann's. Open from 11am to 1am, this long-established pub offers a local setting with food served throughout the day and live music at weekends. Dogs are welcome inside, making it an easy place to settle in for the evening while keeping your dog nearby.

Day 2

Breakfast at Birch Newcastle

Begin Sunday morning with coffee or brunch at Birch. Open from 9am to 4pm, this café has an easy-going, social atmosphere and welcomes dogs, making it a great spot to visit before heading back on the road.

The menu focuses on simple breakfast and brunch options that are also vegetarian and vegan. Dogs are well catered for, with treats and water bowls provided.

Morning stop at Wild River Dog Park

After departing from Newcastle, stop at Wild River Dog Park in Ballynahinch. Open from 9am to 6pm on Sundays, the park provides a secure enclosed space where dogs can run off lead.

The site includes enrichment features and plenty of space to explore, with two public fields and additional areas available for private hire. Regular dog classes also take place throughout the week, offering opportunities for training and socialising.

There is a dog wash on site if your pup gets muddy, along with a small coffee shop serving coffee, traybakes and scones made locally in Ballynahinch. The shop also stocks locally produced dog food, treats and accessories, making it a perfect final stop before heading home.