Discover more at Derrymore House
Find out how to get to Derrymore House, where to park, the things to see and do and more.
Things to see and do at Derrymore
This 110-acre estate of landscaped parkland and curated woodland in Bessbrook is centred around the historic 18th-century thatched cottage Derrymore House. Ideal for dog walks, nature rambles and picnics, it’s less than 2 miles from Newry.
Derrymore House
Derrymore House is a single-storey thatched cottage built in the late 18th century for local MP Isaac Corry, who used it as a family residence for over 25 years.
The house consists of a central building with two outer sections forming a courtyard and is finished in the style of a ‘cottage orné’ – French for ‘decorated cottage’ – a name that makes perfect sense when you see its quirky windows and brightly-coloured limewashed exterior.
When to visit the Drawing Room
You can usually look around the furnished Drawing Room on the last Saturday of the month between March and September, with a guide available to tell you about the history of the house.
However, it’s worth checking the homepage for any important changes before setting out.
The Derrymore estate
With over 100 acres of parkland and planted woodland – including some fine specimens of oak, chestnut, pine and beech – Derrymore is a great place to visit any day of the week.
Whether you’re a dog walker, a nature rambler or simply enjoy relaxing in picturesque surroundings. You’re welcome to bring a picnic but please don’t leave litter behind.
Views of Mourne Mountains
There are panoramic views of the Mourne Mountains and the volcanic Ring of Gullion – a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – as well as a play area for youngsters and an off-lead space for dogs.
The Woodhouse
In the wooded northern part of Derrymore, stands the aptly named Woodhouse, a gabled Victorian villa with pitched slate roofs, which was built in 1863 by Bessbrook’s linen king John Grubb Richardson.
The house has since been converted to apartments, and its ornamental conservatory removed, but the grounds are open to the public.
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Visiting Derrymore with your dog
Derrymore, as the only parkland near the centre of Newry, is an excellent spot for walking with your canine companion. We want everyone to enjoy this beautiful spot, so we ask visitors coming with their dogs to follow these guidelines which are in-line with the Countryside Code.
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Countryside and woodland
Plan a visit to one of the special countryside places in our care and discover the benefits of being in the great outdoors. Pack your walking boots and get ready to explore woodlands, valleys and rivers.
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