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NEWCASTLE, NORTHERN IRELAND: A LOCAL LOCATION GUIDE BY OUR STORE TEAM
Planning a trip to Newcastle, Northern Ireland? Our store team knows the area inside out, so we’ve pulled together their favourite spots! from scenic hikes and sea swims to the best coffee, cocktails, and local treats.
Whether you're visiting for the weekend or just passing through, these local tips will help you make the most of your time in this beautiful seaside town.
OUR SALTROCK STORE IN NEWCASTLE - NORTHERN IRELAND
The store in Newcastle, NI is located on main street! Our address is: 57 Main Street, Newcastle. BT33 0AD
STORE LOCATORMEET THE TEAM – OUR SALTROCK FAMILY IN NEWCASTLE, NI
ALI - STORE MANAGER
“I love working for Saltrock, its a very relaxed vibe, I get to meet people from all over the globe and were else can you wear a tee and shorts as your uniform and get paid to give dogs their treats!”
In Ali’s words, Newcastle is known for its sandy beaches including the NT Murlough Nature Reserve, Tollymore Forest Park, which has featured in many movies and most recently in Game of Thrones. (There is a rumour that you could bump into Hugh Jackman as he is filming the Death of Robin Hood in the forest!)
We are also home to the Royal County Down golf club, one of the top golf courses in the world, and Rory's favourite! or you could just grab a coffee and a cake from Kin & Folk and stroll the promenade and High Street.
LAURA-MARIE – SALES ADVISOR
Laura-Marie has been apart of the Saltrock family for nearly three years now!
“Hi my name is Laura-Marie, I previously worked in hospitality and needed a change, Saltrock has been the perfect solution I get to be outgoing and social to all our amazing customers, while getting my evenings for family time. Newcastle is a special place in beauty and with its people, we are so lucky to have Saltrock as a great addition to an already great place!”
KATE – SALES ADVISOR
“Hi, my name is Kate. I have worked here for 3 years alongside my studies and wouldn't want to be anywhere else! I love working alongside 4 great girls in a fun, friendly environment. I love wearing my groovy tees to work and repping my swimming gear down at the harbour. Never a dull day in Saltrock Newcastle (despite the weather) chatting to lots of locals, family, friends and hoildaymakers, oh and lots of cute dogs. Always a pleasure coming home from uni, stocking up on new clothes and catching up with everyone!”
CAOIMHE – SALES ADVISOR
“Hey, my name is Caoimhe, I am the newest team member here at Saltrock Newcastle! Previously I was a customer, as I loved the stock at Saltrock and coming into the store to chat with the girls and make some lovely purchases! I now work here!! and I absolutely love working here as it is so chilled and relaxed and the craic is great with the girls and customers, I love the clothes, comfy ,relaxed and great style! Working at Saltrock has given me great confidence and brings me much happiness and joy coming to work everyday as its a fun and friendly place to work.”
WHAT'S THE BEST SELLING PRODUCT INSTORE RIGHT NOW?
Our current Best Seller is the Amphibian shorts, they look smart, but dry really quickly if caught out by our Summer weather, there's a reason it's called the Emerald Isle!
ANY MUST-HAVE PICKS FROM OUR SUMMER COLLECTION YOU'D RECOMMEND?
Ali’s favourite pick is the Summer Solstice dress and the cord shorts!
“I am just back from holiday and wore it loads, it's a great beach dress and it has pockets! I also love our cord shorts ranges, Meddon/ Mel, they have a retro feel and are super comfy with its elasticated waist!”
SALTROCK TEAM’S LOCAL RECOMMENDATIONS
We’ve rounded up the best places to swim, sip, shop and eat all recommended by our store team. Dive in and discover why Newcastle should be at the top of your travel list!
BEST BEACH IN NEWCASTLE, NI: MURLOUGH NATURE RESERVE
Murlough Nature Reserve is a national trust gem that offers breathtaking views of the Mourne mountains.
Our Team's Top Tip: Start your day early at to catch the sunrise, its truly a magical experience.
WHERE TO SWIM IN NEWCASTLE: HIGH TIDE AT NEWCASTLE HARBOUR
If you're looking for the best swim spot look no further than the harbour during high tide! You will always find the local swim group Newcastle Sea Swimmers going for a dip, they always welcome visitors!
If you're lucky, you might catch the portable sauna down at Newcastle Harbour, it pops up now and then and is such a fun way to warm up after a dip.
Once you’ve had your swim (and maybe a steam), wander over to the Harbour House Inn. It’s a great little spot for a drink or something tasty to eat, with lovely views over the water and Newcastle’s coastline.
WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK IN NEWCASTLE, NI: OUR STORE TEAMS FAVOURITES
Newcastle has no shortage of great spots to eat, drink, and treat yourself. Here are a few local favourites you won’t want to miss:
Coffee & Cake at Kin & Folk: Kin & Folk offer delcious coffee and cakes especially the cruffins and banana cake!
Favourite Ice Cream - Lick Gelato: Craving something sweet? Lick Gelato is a must-visit. Their ice cream is made instore and if Cremino is available try it!
Best Cocktail Spot - The Wild Hare: For a quirky night out, The Wild Hare is your go-to. With its charming Granny chic décor and cozy atmosphere, it’s a cocktail lover’s dream. Try their Old Fashioned, it’s a standout on the menu and sure to impress.
WHERE TO SHOP LOCAL IN NEWCASTLE: UNIQUE & HANDMADE FINDS
Looking for unique, locally made gifts? Painted Earth showcases the finest crafts from across Northern Ireland, from ceramics to textiles.
For a taste of tradition, stop by The Cookie Jar for their famous Wheaten bread, soda farls, and potato bread, ideal for taking a bit of Northern Ireland home with you.
BEST PLACES FOR LIVE MUSIC IN NEWCASTLE
End your evening with some live tunes at Mackens Bar, just across from Newcastle Harbour. This lively spot hosts music sessions throughout the week, with Traditional Irish music every Friday. The atmosphere is always warm and welcoming, and they have great Guinness!
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES IN NEWCASTLE, NI: HIKING, PADDLEBOARDING AND WILD SWIMMING
Newcastle is a fantastic destination for outdoor lovers, offering a mix of mountain trails, coastal waters, and forest escapes. One of the top things to do is hike Slieve Donard, the highest peak in the Mourne Mountains. On a clear day, the panoramic views over the town and coastline are absolutely stunning.
For something a little different, try paddleboarding along the Newcastle coastline. The sea is often calm enough for a relaxing paddle, but a wetsuit or spring suit is a must, this is the Irish Sea, after all!
Another must-visit is the Bloody Bridge trail, managed by the National Trust. The higher the climb, the better the views, and along the way, you’ll find natural rock pools perfect for a refreshing wild swim.
To round out the adventure, head to Tollymore Forest Park. With its ancient trees, winding trails, and the Shimna River flowing through, it’s a peaceful escape that feels untouched by time. There are plenty of walking routes, swimming spots, and even camping areas for those who want to stay overnight.
From mountain hikes to sea swims, artisan treats to live music, Newcastle, Northern Ireland is full of local gems waiting to be discovered. However you spend your day, you’re in for something special. Come and say hi to Ali and the team, they would love to see you!
Photos throughout this blog have been provided by our store team
