Drum Lough

The water here sits dark and still, ringed by those distinctive Mourne Mountains that dominate this corner of County Down. Drum Lough isn't a place that shouts for attention - it's quiet, often empty, and all the better for it. You can walk the perimeter on decent paths, get proper views across the lough itself, and if you time it right when the light's low, the reflections are genuinely striking. The mountains in the background shift colour throughout the day, which sounds like marketing speak but genuinely happens when you're standing there.

Walkers will find this worth the trip from Newry, especially if you're already tackling routes in the Mourne Area. The circuit takes a couple of hours at an easy pace. Photographers should come early or late - midday sun just flattens everything. It's free and accessible, no visitor centre or facilities to speak of, so bring what you need. The roads getting here are narrow but fine.

Family groups with younger kids might find it a bit underwhelming on its own - the walk itself is the point rather than a destination with bells and whistles. But if you're staying at Greenview Glamping nearby, it's a straightforward addition to a morning's exploring. Combine it with other Mourne walks and you've got a proper day out. The lough doesn't try to be anything it isn't, which is refreshing. Sometimes that's enough.