Red Robin Cottage

Red Robin Cottage is a charming pet-friendly self-catering retreat in Ballyward, near Castlewellan and Newcastle, just 45 minutes from Belfast. Nestled in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this peaceful rural getaway is perfect for exploring the Mourne Mountains, Castlewellan Forest Park, and Tollymore Forest Park.

The cottage comfortably sleeps up to six guests, with two king-size bedrooms and a twin room with two single beds — ideal for families, wedding guests, or romantic getaways. Guests can enjoy a fully equipped kitchen, cosy lounge with open fire, and a picturesque patio area with barbecue and fire pit, all surrounded by tranquil countryside views.

Addtional facilities include;

Smart TV, Netflix, Xbox One 

Oil central heating & open fire

Private parking

Patio with barbecue, seating & fire pit

Just 10 minutes from Castlewellan, 15 minutes from Newcastle, and 45 minutes from Belfast — ideally located for exploring the Mournes and the beautiful County Down countryside.

Nearby Attractions include: 

Castlewellan Forest Park & the Peace Maze – one of the world’s largest hedge mazes

Tollymore Forest Park – stunning woodland walks and scenic drives

Mourne Mountains – perfect for hiking, cycling & photography

Electric bike hire from Bike Mourne or Life Adventure Centre, Castlewellan

Game of Thrones Studio Tour, Banbridge – an award-winning interactive experience

Newcastle promenade & beach – seaside walks, coffee shops & ice cream

Mourne Coastal Route – a short drive from the cottage

Dining Nearby

The Angels Rest, Castlewellan – hearty local dishes in a cosy setting

Hillyard House Restaurant, Castlewellan – modern dining using local produce

Villa Vinci, Newcastle – lively Italian restaurant near the promenade

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Directions from Town

From Newry 

Bus/Taxi: Take a Translink Goldline or regional bus toward Castlewellan (service 240 or routed services). Get off at Castlewellan Upper Square and transfer to the 32 for Ballyward, or complete the last mile by taxi. Timetables show only a few daily calls into Castlewellan so plan ahead. 

From Belfast George Best (BHD) (fastest public / private option)

Car/Taxi  (recommended if luggage/group): Drive from BHD to Red Robin Cottage approx 40–45 minutes (29 miles). 

Public transport: Take a bus from Belfast City area toward Castlewellan (check Translink journey planner for exact departures). Arrive at Castlewellan Upper Square.  From Castlewellan Upper Square catch the local Translink line 32 toward Ballyward (short ride approx 15 minutes) or take a local taxi. Timetables are limited so check in advance. 

From Belfast International (BFS)

Car/Taxi:  Driving is approx 1 hour to 1h10m depending on traffic (36–50 miles, different route options exist). For groups or luggage, a taxi or pre-booked transfer is simplest.

Public transport: Use airport buses / coaches into Belfast or Banbridge/Newry depending on timings, then Translink services into Castlewellan. From Castlewellan Upper Square take the line 32 to Ballyward or a short taxi. Public-transport routing can take several hours and includes transfers - check Translink / Rome2Rio

From Dublin Airport (DUB)

Car/Taxi  - Drive north on the M1/A1 then local roads approx 1 h 35–1 h 50 depending on traffic (distance 75–90 miles). 

Public transport (Train/Bus combination):Train or coach from Dublin to Newry/Belfast, then bus (Translink Goldline 240 or local services) to Castlewellan, then line 32 or taxi to the cottage. This is feasible but slower and involves at least one transfer.

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Getting to the start by car

From Belfast / North & East: Take the M1/A1 heading towards Lisburn / Banbridge. Continue onto the A1. Exit for Banbridge / Dromara and follow signs for the A25 / A24 toward Castlewellan. As you approach Castlewellan, take the B8 toward Ballyward. Continue on Ballyward Road. Look for house number 11 — Red Robin Cottage is located along this road.

From Downpatrick / South & East: Travel via the A25 or A24 toward Castlewellan. From Castlewellan, take the B8 toward Ballyward. Follow Ballyward Road to number 11.

From Newcastle / Mourne area: Head north out of Newcastle toward Castlewellan via the B8. From Castlewellan, head toward Ballyward via the B8. Red Robin Cottage is on Ballyward Road, number 11.

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Opening times

Booking available via booking.com or AirB&B

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Book using

https://www.booking.com/hotel/gb/red-robin-cottage-castlewellan.en-gb.html?