Murlough National Nature Reserve and The Mournes - National Trust

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Murlough National Nature Reserve and The Mournes - National Trust

Overlooked by the rounded peaks of the Mourne Mountains to the south.
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Cared for as Ireland's first nature reserve since 1967, the fragile 6000 year old sand dune system lovely walking and discover wild nature its birds, flowers, butterflies and more.

11/08/2026

We were thrilled to welcome First Minister Michelle O'Neill and local MP Chris Hazzard to a misty Millstone Mountain last week to showcase the exciting work happening across the Mournes.

It was a fantastic chance to share how the Forever Mournes partners are working together to care for the Mournes, enhance visitor experiences, support local communities, and protect this iconic landscape for future generations.

💚 Thank you for meeting with us and for such a useful discussion around how we can protect and care for this special landscape in the long term.

10/08/2026

One little scan. A big difference. 🌿

If you're a National Trust member visiting Murlough, remember to scan your membership card at the parking machine when you arrive.

Every scan helps us understand how people are using the reserve and, importantly, helps support the conservation work that protects this special place.

Not sure how? We've made it easy. Just watch our quick guide before your next visit.

Scan in. Support conservation. Enjoy Murlough.

06/08/2026

🐾🌼 Give Skylarks the space they need to sing.

Skylarks nest directly on the ground in the Mournes, hiding their eggs in shallow scrapes among grass and heather. These fragile nests are incredibly easy to disturb - often without even realising.
Keeping your dog on a lead ensures these vulnerable songbirds can safely raise their chicks during the breeding season.

Places to walk your dog off the lead can be found here: https://www.visitmournegullionstrangford.com/blog/read/2025/06/dog-friendly-walks-in-mourne-gullion-strangford-b197

04/08/2026

Every good adventure starts with one question...

"Who's taking the dog out today?" 🐕

If you're heading to Dog Royal at Down Royal Racecourse this Sunday, come and find us! We'll be sharing our favourite dog-friendly tips for walking the Mournes.

We can't wait to meet you—and your four-legged explorer. 🐾🌿

03/08/2026

📢 We're hiring!

The Mourne Gullion Landscape Connections Project is recruiting five new team members to help shape the future of one of Northern Ireland's most spectacular landscapes.

We're currently recruiting for:
✅ Project Manager
✅ Senior Community Participation & Volunteering Manager
✅ Farming Liaison Manager
✅ Farming for Nature Officer
✅ GI Analyst

Interested in finding out more? Join us at one of our informal Recruitment Drop-In Sessions to learn about the project and discuss the opportunities available.

📍 Newcastle 📅 Thursday 6 August 2026 🕝 2.30pm - 6.30pm Donard Room, Newcastle Centre
📍 Newry 📅 Tuesday 11 August 2026 🕒 3.00pm - 7.00pm Mall Suite, Canal Court Hotel

No booking required. Drop in anytime during the session.

Visit nationaltrustjobs.org.uk for full job descriptions and application details.

Mourne Gullion Landscape Connections is made possible with . Thanks to players, we can come together to sustain and restore the Mourne AONB and Ring of Gullion AONB landscape.

29/07/2026

We’re thrilled to announce £1.1million support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund for the Mourne Gullion Landscape Connections project which allows us to work together across sectors and communities to design a practical, long-term response that supports both nature recovery and local community. A huge thanks to players! ✨ 💚

Thanks also to Daera NI as £300,000 match funding for the development phase is being provided by the Environment Fund.

ℹ️ Further information on the project will be shared soon, including job opportunities and how to get involved.

27/07/2026

This happened at Murlough NNR.

Not during a heatwave abroad. Not somewhere else. Right here, after a campfire in the dunes.

Thanks to the swift response from Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service, the fire was brought under control before it could spread further into the reserve's most sensitive habitats.

It's easy to think a small fire will stay small. In conditions like these, it doesn't. Dry vegetation can ignite in seconds, putting wildlife, rare habitats and the people tackling the fire at risk.

An official wildfire warning remains in place. To help protect Murlough NNR:

• Campfires and BBQs are not permitted within the nature reserve.
• If you'd like to have a BBQ, please use the designated picnic area at the main car park.

23/07/2026

🐶 Attention responsible dog owners!🐶

The Mournes are working farmland, and the law requires dogs to be kept on a lead wherever livestock are present.
Keeping your dog on a lead protects sheep, supports local farmers, and keeps your dog safe — especially in busy upland areas like this.
Small actions make a big difference. 💚

Places to walk your dog off the lead can be found here: https://www.visitmournegullionstrangford.com/blog/read/2025/06/dog-friendly-walks-in-mourne-gullion-strangford-b197

Address

Keel Point
Dundrum
BT330NQ

Telephone

+442843751467

Website

https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/murlough-national-nature-reserve

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