Dundrum Inner Bay

Salt air mingles with the scent of gorse as you spread your blanket on the grassy slopes overlooking Dundrum's sheltered inner bay. This free picnic spot near Newcastle offers one of County Down's most peaceful waterside settings, where the Mountains of Mourne provide a dramatic backdrop to your al fresco lunch.

Families will love the gentle shoreline here - it's perfect for little ones to paddle safely while parents keep watch from the picnic tables scattered across the site. The bay stays relatively calm even when the outer waters get choppy, making it ideal for a relaxed afternoon. Dog walkers frequent the area too, as there's plenty of space for four-legged friends to explore.

Bring a good windbreaker though - this is the Irish coast after all, and the breeze can pick up quickly. The lack of facilities means you'll need to pack everything in, but that's part of the appeal. No crowds, no entry fees, just you and one of Ulster's loveliest coastal views.

It works brilliantly as a day trip base if you're staying at any of the nearby parks around Newcastle. Windsor Holiday Park and the other caravan sites dotted around the area are all within easy driving distance, making this a proper gem for those seeking a quieter alternative to the busier beaches further south.