Newry is a small city with a big history. Humans first settled here back in 4,000BC and have been here ever since. Perhaps they too came for a visit and stayed for the shopping. Can’t say we blame them...
It’s all about The Quays…
You’ll find The Quays Shopping Centre right on the edge of the Newry Canal, hence the name. With easy access from the M1 motorway between Dublin and Belfast, there’s on-site parking (within walking distance of the city centre), and the bus station is nearby.
Inside are some of the biggest and best known stores, including Marks and Spencer, Sainsbury’s, Topshop, H&M, River Island, Superdry, Next, Sports Direct and Ernst Jones. Sostrene Grene has made it all the way from Denmark, and there’s also the heady scents of Lush cosmetics to enjoy. If you’re planning a trip to Northern Ireland’s great outdoors, there’s a Trespass clothing and equipment store here too. Elsewhere in The Quays you’ll come across Skechers, Stat Sports, Peter Mark, Pure Gym, O’Neill’s sportswear, Belleek Living, Pandora, Houston’s and Claire’s. As if all that wasn’t enough, there’s also a 10-screen cinema upstairs showing all the latest releases – the perfect ending to your blockbuster shopping trip.
For refuelling after your shopping spree there’s a plethora of food and drink outlets to choose from, including big names like Subway, Café Nero, Eddie Rockets and Starbucks.
…and Buttercrane
The retail therapy doesn’t stop at The Quays however, as there’s another shopping centre, just a few minutes away by foot. Buttercrane Shopping Centre is on Buttercrane Quay in the heart of Newry, just minutes from the train and bus stations, and 1 hour by road from Belfast and roughly the same from Dublin. With over 1,000 car parking spaces on site, you’ll always find a spot even at the busiest times. Buttercrane is home to over 50 stores, from Dunnes to Dorothy Perkins. Jack & Jones, Primark, Dv8, Clarks, Boots, Vera Moda and Newry native, Louis Boyd.
Food and drink are equally well catered for here too, with Burger King, Costa Coffee, Subway, Pancake Junction, Greggs (home of the sausage roll and vegan sausage roll), Vivo and T2 Coffee Shop all on site.
The Quays and Buttercrane alone make Newry a premier shopping destination, and there’s plenty more places to discover here too.
Craft shops and local artisans
Away from the big shopping centres, you’ll happen upon all kinds of interesting and independent makers.
Potter Judith Lockhart-Revels makes wonderful limited edition decorative pieces of porcelain and terracotta which can you purchase direct, and also runs craft classes, so this is one to plan in advance. It’s best to make an appointment first.
Half an hour drive or so from Newry, lies Made in Mourne. It’s a not-for-profit enterprise that supports local creative talent by showcasing their work. It also happens to be in one of the prettiest fishing towns you’ll see – Kilkeel. But that’s just an added bonus. With 45 different artists’ work on site, you’ll unearth real treasures here. All locally produced art, crafts, homewares and artisan food. There’s every chance you’ll be going home with a lot more than you brought with you!
Dining inspiration in Newry
Bellini’s, The Blue Print Pizza Company and The Bank Bar & Bistro are great spots for lunch or dinner. Or make like a local and treat yourself to something tasty from the legendary 100 year-old Shelbourne Bakery and Restaurant on Hill Street.
Shopped until you dropped? Time to rest up
You don’t have to look very far from the shopping centres for somewhere to stay a night or two. The Canal Court Hotel (4*), one of the best hotels in Co. Down, is also in one of the best locations. The Hotel’s Old Mill Restaurant and Granary Bar serve a delicious selection of food and drink to make you feel right at home.
