Begny Lake

The water here is dark and still, ringed by low hills that rise up from the surrounding countryside. Begny Lake sits just outside Castlewellan, a proper spot for a quiet walk rather than a destination in itself. It's the kind of place you stumble upon when you're exploring the lanes round Lisburn and Castlereagh, not somewhere you'd plan an afternoon around.

What you get is straightforward - a small lake with decent views across the water toward the rolling terrain beyond. There's a walking path that takes you round it, though nothing spectacular. Families with young kids might manage a lap without complaints, but teenagers and serious hikers will find it a bit limited. It works best as an add-on to a day tackling Slieve Croob nearby, rather than a standalone trip.

The real advantage is its proximity to the caravan parks in the area. Both Lakeside View and Slieve Croob Camping sit within three miles, making it ideal for campers wanting a gentle evening stroll. Pop down at dusk when the light's soft and the place feels less exposed than midday. Admission appears to be free, which takes the pressure off.

If you're based at one of the nearby parks, absolutely worth the walk. As a dedicated destination? Better options exist in the region. It's serviceable but unremarkable - the sort of place you'll remember more for the quiet and fresh air than any standout feature.