Newry Mourne and Down District Council has worked closely with the Mourne Heritage Trust to develop horse riding trails within Castlewellan Forest Park on an interim basis, pending the outcome of a study into horse riding in the longer term within the forests of Mourne.
It is anticipated that the newly waymarked trails will be open to the public from Monday 8 May 2017. Prior to the opening of the trails any member of the public wishing to ride within the forest environment may use the designated horse riding trails within Tollymore Forest Park which are managed by the Forest Service.
There will be no cost to individual horse riders to access the trails. Groups wishing to organise events or coaching and guiding on the designated trails will have to apply for approval to do so, for which a fee will apply. Usual vehicle access charges will apply for the Forest Park.
Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Gillian Fitzpatrick, said: “The Council has taken the initiative in developing these interim horse riding trails within Castlewellan Forest Park as well as leading on finding a longer term solution.
“It has become obvious that the forest is a much loved place for horse riders and the Council hopes that these newly waymarked trails will cater for all”.
