Activities at Murlough National Nature Reserve

Discover new walks

Discover new walks at the places we look after in Co. Down

5 things to look out for in late winter at Murlough

See our slection of 5 things to do and look out for in late winter

Murlough Woodland Walk

A self-guided walk to celebrate what is so special about Murlough.

• Easy
• 1 hour
• 1.0 mile (1.6km)

The history of Murlough's trees and woodland

Most of the trees at Murlough date from the acquisition of the Dundrum estate (including Murlough) by the Downshire Estate in 1783.

Jo's Woodland Walk

This first walk is an introduction to the woodland which grows around Murlough House and on the North point. There is a wide range of trees to be seen, most of which were planted in the late 1800s following the building of Murlough House by the Downshire estate. Most tree species have established well, but few have spread, sycamore being the major exception, which has, in the last 50 years, progressively spread to form extensive woodland around the house, and out over the dune land. It is a highly competitive tree which shades out other species to form a near single species of woodland. As the woodland is maturing an interesting ground flora is developing, which will be the focus of a spring time walk. Closer to the North Point a more natural woodland of hazel , blackthorn and spindle will be visited before the walk returns looking at the heathland trees.

Jo Whatmough Walk

Join us for some very special insight into 6,000 years of Murlough history.

Murlough south end nature trail

Enjoy a walk through the varying habitats of the Nature Reserve, via the beach, and see what wildlife you can spot.

• Moderate
• 1 hour 15 mins
• 3.0 miles (4.8km)

Murlough north point nature trail

Discover the beauty of our Nature Reserve and learn about the history, biology and conservation work that takes place here.

• Moderate
• 1 hour 15 mins
• 3.0 miles (4.8km)