Destination Ireland: Newry

Known as the gateway to the north, Newry is a city with a mix of retro and modern and has firmly established itself as a shopping haven, while also being full of history and heart.

Things to see and do

Newry sits snugly amidst the natural splendour of the Mourne Mountains and the Ring of Gullion. In the 19th century Newry was a bustling trading port, a place of merchants, markets and noisy city quays. A link to the city’s industrious beginnings can be seen in its place names, such as Buttercrane Quay, Canal Boat Street and Custom House Quay.

Newry has been a place of continuous human settlement since way back in 4,000BC so it’s no surprise that the city has a rich and colourful heritage. Sitting handsomely among modern structures are elegant 18th-century Georgian townhouses and a lovely mid 19th century courthouse. Down by the quays, brick canal buildings with attractive terracotta façades are still in place with their original features. A flax and spinning mill on Cornmarket has been restored, and now acts as a centre for community groups. You can find out all about the history behind Newry and its magnificent structures as you explore the city, beginning at the historic Bagenal’s Castle.