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Murlough Beach

Beach

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Coastal, Mountain

Swimming

Spring to Autumn

Eric Jones / CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Murlough Beach is a four-mile sweep of golden sand backed by an ancient dune system on the County Down coast, between Dundrum Bay and the Irish Sea, with the Mountains of Mourne rising behind. The dunes, some six thousand years old, form the largest such system in Ireland and are run by the National...

9

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

1

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

4 day, 5 overnight

The Golf Links House Bar – Newcastle, The Percy French Inn – Newcastle, Brunel’s – Newcastle

Enniskeen Estate & Forest Spa

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Murlough Beach?
County Down welcomes you to this expansive stretch of shoreline sitting beneath the Mourne Mountains. Walkers frequently discover the area while exploring the spectacular coast of Northern Ireland.

What type of place is Murlough Beach?
Murlough Beach is a sandy beach near Newcastle in County Down.

When is the best time to visit Murlough Beach?
Spring through to autumn brings the finest weather for enjoying the sweeping shoreline. Clear days during these seasons offer the sharpest views across Dundrum Bay.

What can you do at Murlough Beach?
Swimming and sunbathing draw crowds to the golden sands when the sun emerges. People also enjoy exploring the massive networks of sand dunes and watching the local birdlife.

How long should I spend at Murlough Beach?
Allocating half a day lets you properly wander the wooden boardwalks and relax by the water. A shorter stay of an hour still gives you enough time for a brisk coastal walk.

Where do I park at Murlough Beach?
Vehicles can use the 9 available spaces nearby, which include 4 day and 5 overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Murlough Beach?
The Golf Links House Bar, The Percy French Inn, and Brunel's provide 3 places to get a meal in Newcastle. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Murlough Beach?
Enniskeen Estate and Forest Spa offers 1 place to stay in the vicinity. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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