White Fort

Scrambling up through Tollymore Forest Park to reach this elevated viewpoint rewards you with sweeping vistas across the Mourne Mountains and down to Dundrum Bay. The White Fort - actually an ancient ringfort rather than anything medieval - sits on a prominent hill that's been used as a lookout point for centuries.

Families with older children who don't mind a bit of uphill walking will love this spot, though pushchair users should think twice about the terrain. The path from the forest car park takes about 20 minutes of steady climbing through mixed woodland before opening out to the fort's grassy ramparts.

What makes this viewpoint special is the 360-degree panorama you get once you're up there. On clear days you can spot Slieve Donard's peak, the shimmer of the Irish Sea, and the patchwork fields rolling towards Newcastle. It's free to visit and accessible year-round, though winter months can be muddy underfoot.

Being right on the doorstep of Tollymore Forest Park makes this an easy add-on to a day exploring the Mournes. Several caravan parks nearby, including The Rock and Bonnys, put you within easy striking distance for repeat visits when the weather's playing ball.