Shimna River

Clear mountain water tumbles through Tollymore Forest Park before meeting the sea near Newcastle, and the Shimna River offers some of the finest riverside walking in County Down. This isn't a lake at all, but a proper fast-flowing river that cuts through ancient woodland and open moorland on its journey from the Mourne Mountains.

Families with older children will love the stepping stones and shallow pools perfect for splashing about on warm days. The riverside path follows the water for miles, with enough variety to keep walkers interested - dense forest sections give way to open meadows where you might spot kingfishers darting between the banks.

Access is completely free through Tollymore Forest Park, though you'll pay for parking. Allow at least two hours if you want to follow the river upstream towards the mountains, or stick to the lower reaches for an easier hour-long stroll. Early morning visits often reward you with deer drinking at the water's edge.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks puts you within walking distance of some brilliant countryside. Camping Tollymore Forest Park and Tollymore Campsite are practically on your doorstep, while the coastal parks like Murlough Cottage offer easy access to both river and sea. The combination works brilliantly - riverside walks when the weather's changeable, beach time when the sun's out.