Things to do in Cooley Peninsula
Discover the best attractions and experiences Cooley Peninsula has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the peninsula's medieval fortifications and Norman influences, anchored by Carlingford’s fortress town.
King John's Castle (Carlingford)
A Norman fortress perched over Carlingford Lough with towers and a storied history.
Carlingford Abbey ruins
Ruins of a medieval religious house reflecting Carlingford’s monastic past.
Medieval town walls (Carlingford)
Remnants of the town’s protective walls along the harbour and streets.
Museums
Delve into local history and maritime heritage at small, welcoming museums in and around Carlingford.
Carlingford Heritage Centre
A small museum and information hub about the town’s stories and legends.
Louth County Museum (Dundalk)
County museum with archaeology, social history, and regional exhibits.
Religious Monuments
Visit historic church and monastic sites that shaped the area’s spiritual landscape.
St. Mary's Church, Carlingford
An historic parish church with local stained glass and graveside stories.
Carlingford Priory ruins
Ruins of a medieval Augustinian priory near the town.
National & Theme Parks
Characterful landscapes and dramatic coastlines define the peninsula’s outdoors.
Slieve Foy
The dominant peak offering sweeping views over Carlingford Lough and the Cooley Peninsula.
Cooley Mountains
Rugged trails and panoramic viewpoints across the area.
Carlingford Lough
A sheltered sea inlet great for boat trips, kayaking and sunset gazing.
Neighborhoods
Towns and villages that give the Cooley Peninsula its character and characterful edges.
Carlingford
Historic seaside town with cobbled streets, harbour views and craft shops.
Omeath
Riverside village with coastal paths and friendly pubs along the Irish Sea.
Greenore
Quiet coastal village near the mouth of Carlingford Lough with harbour charm.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy scenic, budget-friendly experiences that showcase the peninsula’s natural beauty.
Walk the Carlingford Lough shore and town lanes
Free, scenic strolls through medieval streets and coastal views.
Hike Slieve Foy
Rewarding hill climb with panoramic lough and mountain vistas.
Explore Carlingford’s medieval streets
Wander the cobbled lanes, snap photos, and soak up history.
Gastronomy
Savor seafood specialties and local produce tied to the peninsula’s maritime life.
Carlingford Oysters
Sample the famous local oysters, a seafood cornerstone.
Seafood dishes in Carlingford harbour eateries
Enjoy fresh catches prepared in harbour-side restaurants.
Carlingford Oyster Festival
Annual festival with tastings, markets, and seafood celebrations.
Nightlife
Evenings in Carlingford offer pubs, music and harbour views after dark.
Traditional Irish music evenings in Carlingford pubs
Live sessions and stories in vibrant harbour pubs.
Evening harbour stroll in Carlingford
Calm walks along the waterfront with lantern-lit lanes.
Entertainment
Cultural events, festivals and performances add seasonal charm to the area.
Carlingford Maritime Festival
Seaside event with music, markets and maritime activities.
Cultural events in Dundalk area
Local concerts and theatre within driving distance.
Sports
Outdoor adventures and sports abound, from hills to water-based activities.
Hiking on Slieve Foy and the Cooley Mountains
Popular trails with rewarding views.
Kayaking on Carlingford Lough
Kayak along sheltered waters with scenic backdrops.
Golf at Greenore Golf Club
Coastal links course with sea vistas and rolling greens.
Off the Track
Hidden corners and less-traveled paths reveal the peninsula’s quieter side.
Hidden coastal viewpoints along Carlingford Lough
Secluded spots offering dramatic sea views.
Quiet village walk through Omeath
Scenic strolls along the sea road and harbour.
Sunset at Greenore harbour and lighthouse area
Calm evening skies over water and pier.