Rostrevor Forest

Rostrevor Forest, on the edge of Rostrevor village covers an area of 1,700 hectares of which 1,000 hectares are planted with trees.

Activities

The Cloghmore car park is 230 metres above sea level and provides views of the surrounding forest.

A scenic drive is open daily to provide access to the top level car park. There are three waymarked trails, which vary in length from two kilometres to seven kilometres, and take the visitor to various areas within the forest to enjoy the many magnificent views and beauty of the woodlands.

To arrange a special event or activity in this forest, you should apply in the first instance to the Recreation Manager, Forest Service NI based based at Castlewellan Forest Park.

Such activities may include sporting events or educational visits.

Forest Service (contacts section)

There may be restrictions on access to parts of our forests from time to time to facilitate forest operations. Please adhere to safety signage which will be posted for your safety.

About this forest

The first planting was carried out in 1931, mostly with coniferous species sitka spruce, douglas fir and pine. These are species best suited to the less fertile steep hillsides in this area. Much of the tree crop has reached maturity and there is an ongoing programme of felling and replanting.

During the replanting phase, landscaping and wildlife conservation are given a high priority. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife including jays, sparrow hawks, wood pigeons, red and grey squirrels, foxes and badgers.

The Cloghmore Stone

The Cloghmore Stone is a 40 tonne granite boulder which was deposited here at the end of the last ice age, some 10,000 years ago. It is a well known landmark in the locality. The views over Carlingford from this point are spectacular.

Fiddler's Green

Fiddler’s Green is a small clearing at the southern edge of the Oakwood. It was once a focal point for local entertainment. The Rostrevor annual festivities of traditional music derives it’s title of Fiddler’s Green Festival from this site.

Rostrevor Oakwood

Rostrevor Oakwood is a Special Area of Conservation believed to be over 250 years old. It is a remnant of the old oak woodlands that clothed the lower slopes of the Mournes several centuries ago. Most of these oak woods were cleared during the 18th and 19th centuries for use in boat building.

In an effort to preserve and encourage the natural development of the woodland, the area has been declared a National Nature Reserve and more recently a Special Area of Conservation.

How to get there

From the Town of Rostrevor follow the Shore Road towards Kilkeel. About 800 metres from the Town centre the forest is signposted on the left at Kilbroney Park.