Christmas is just around the corner, and with the pandemic having dominated most of 2020, it’s time to shake off the Covid-19 cobwebs and inject a bit of fun into the most wonderful time of the year!
We’ve decided to put together some of the best and brightest gift ideas from the Mourne area that you could give to your family and friends this Christmas. Your local small businesses will thank you greatly for shopping and supporting them through the toughest time in recent memory.
What makes the perfect Christmas gift?
When you offer a loved one an experience that they can treasure, whether they’re a foodie, an adventurer or a luxury lover, it leaves a lasting mark on their lives. We’ve had quite the year, so giving the gift of beautiful memories and wondrous trinkets (that you don’t have to travel far from home for) is priceless.
What does the Mourne area have to offer for Christmas?
The Mournes are renowned for adventure opportunities such as mountain biking, rock climbing, kayaking etc. but there’s much more to the mystical Mournes besides. There’s a wealth of family, foodie and fun activities too!
Here are our top picks for Christmas gift ideas from the Mournes:
Stocking fillers:
A range of handmade fused glass and polymer clay jewellery, decorations and gifts.
Montalto Estate Christmas Shop
A Christmas shop set in the breathtaking location of Montalto Estate full of fabulous festive gifts, thoughtful stocking fillers and beautiful Christmas candles!
Neary Nogs are Northern Ireland’s first bean to bar, craft chocolate makers. Here you can get mouth-watering chocolate truffles, bars and (our personal favourite) drinking chocolate (try peppermint or pumpkin spice flavour!). If you’re not sure what to pick, they also have vouchers available.
The Mourne Mountains by Andrew McCluggage
A must for any walking enthusiasts in the Mourne area! The book contains the 30 best hikes, handpicked by a County Down local, Andrew McCluggage.
You’re sure to find a gem in their “Under £20” section which contains everything from books, beanies and badges to beautiful prints! Their website also has trendy outerwear from local brands.
Alpaca my bags for a day of fun at:
What kids wouldn’t love a day out with these furry friends? Grab a voucher for an alpaca experience to remember!
Cranfield Alpacas www.cranfieldalpacas.com
Mourne Alpacas www.mournealpacas.com
Look neigh further than:
Take in the beautiful views of the Mournes at a relaxed pace on a majestic steed!
Mount Pleasant trekking: http://www.mountpleasantcentre.com/
Mourne Trail Riding Centre: http://www.mournetrailridingcentre.co.uk/
Gamekeepers Lodge Equestrian Centre trekking
Now there’s a turnip for the books:
This quaint little nook has a tea room with a gallery and sells handcrafted knitwear and felt products.
Turnip House Tea Room & Craft workshop: https://www.turniphouse.com/
Reduce your tent-sion at:
Our top picks to get your glamp on on the New Year! Everyone needs a relaxing break away and glamping gets you closer to nature without having to arm wrestle tent poles in the process!
What is a pirate’s favourite letter? “You might think it’s Rrrrrrrrrr, but his first love is the C”:
Whether it’s soaking in, sampling or scouring the sea, the Mournes has it all!
Mourne Seafood Cookery School – Catch to Cook Experience: https://www.facebook.com/MourneSeafoodCookerySchoolKilkeel
Mourne Fish Box https://www.mournefishbox.com/mourne-fishbox-gift-vouchers/
For the thrill seekers:
For mountain biking, wet bouldering, kayaking and everything in between get the adventurer in your life a voucher for one of these top-notch specialists in all things adrenalin! Contact directly via website or email to obtain vouchers for your chosen activity.
Cloughmor Extreme: info@cloughmorextreme.com
Geology Rocks Adventure Tourism
Mourne than meets the eye:
Activewear that was made for exploring and adventuring!
There are many wonderful gifts on offer in the Mournes, these are just a selection of our favourites.
Shop local, support local and spread the Christmas spirit!
