Write a commentOn 24th March, a sunny Saturday morning another full coach headed off from Bagenal’s Castle to take in the most impressive sights and monuments the Ring of Gullion. But this one is a little different. Darren Rice Ring of Gullion Officer explains “Newry and Mourne has on its doorstep two areas of outstanding natural beauty. There already is a lot of work going on between the two areas behind the scenes but together with the Mourne Heritage Trust we wanted to showcase the two areas to the public.”
He continued, “This coach trip allowed the two guides, Una Walsh and Loretto Coyle, to highlight some of the historical attractions of the areas and will allow visitors to return to take a more in-depth look at other attractions. And there’s lots of information on our websites to guide visitors too”
Una took tourists to Moyry Castle & Gap of the North, Roche Castle & talked about the Norman invasion. Everyone got off the bus to visit Creggan Graveyard to see the O’Neill vault and heard about the poets of south east Ulster. Everyone also got off the bus for a short walk down to Annaghmare Court Cairn, one of the best preserved court cairns in Ireland!
Martin Carey, Chief Executive of the Mourne Heritage Trust said, “Mourne Heritage Trust is very pleased to have been able to cooperate with our neighbouring AONB, Ring of Gullion on this bus tour.” Continuing, “While having their own distinctive characteristics, the Mournes and Gullion share many features and it is no surprise that people interested in one are attracted to the other. In addition the southern part of the Mourne AONB that this tour explored is, like South Armagh, very much part of the hinterland of Newry and the itinerary therefore provided an opportunity for people to appreciate the fantastic natural and cultural heritage that the city has on its doorstep.”
After lunch at Bagenal’s Castle Loretto guided the coach into the Kingdom of Mourne. Everyone was again taken back in time through Narrow Water Castle, Warrenpoint, Rostrevor, Kilkeel and on to Annalong for evryone to visit the community history project on Fishing, Farming and Stone Masons. And the views were spectacular on the Spelga Pass on the journey home through Hilltown.
A great day for all and a few more people wanting to visit Newry and Mourne! There are full day coach trips run by the Ring of Gullion Officer for South Armagh too, so book now to avoid disappointment.
For more information on the Ring of Gullion go to www.ringofgullion.org or facebook.com/ringofgullion
And to explore information on the Mournes log on to www.mournelive.com
