Newcastle is a great night out, shame it's so far away from everywhere!
I grew up in Newcastle and it is far away from everything else. However, I had the most magnificent childhood in Newcastle, as there was always so much to explore. You could ride your horses and bikes just about anywhere -- I loved it.
Newcastle … There isn't a lot to see here and the shops are pretty crappy. I'd only bother if you need somewhere to stop on your way through to Scotland or on your way back to England.
Cnocnafeola Centre - Mourne Hostel in Kilkeel … I stayed here for a week in September 2004. It was lovely. A kitchen is available to guests and there is a grocery store about 100 yards from the hostel. It is very modern and comfortable with a friendly manager.
Newcastle Hostel in Newcastle … Easy to find. Common areas are maintained, and it's very clean and comfortable. Great breakfast included.
Cnocnafeola Centre - Mourne Hostel in Kilkeel … This hostel has a very friendly staff and lovely facilities. It's a little out of the way, but the location is beautiful and it's only a short, cheap taxi ride from Kilkeel. The center was started by the community out of love, not for the money. The ladies were very helpful, and overall it's a pleasant place to stay.
Newcastle Hostel in Newcastle … I provisionally booked for one night for two. Turned up to find hostel closed. Rang door bell and a woman answered, she said she didn't have to answer the door, and said if i wanted to come in i would need to go in now. I asked my friend who was in the car what he wanted to do, during which she interrupted me again, i said i was asking him at which point she shut the door on me. We didnt go back because considering this was the first person i had met in Newcastle, she was rather rude. We stayed in a b+b and was made to feel most welcome.
Coolgreeney B&B in Newcastle … Coolgreeney was a great place to stay. It was comfortable and CLEAN! Jen Shippey is a delightful host, and the breakfasts are wonderful. She lent me her map of Downpatrick and helped me figure out where to go. You can't go wrong making this your base to visit Newcastle and the Mourne Mountains. Also, it's close to Quinn's pub!
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