The Rock Pool

Water levels vary wildly here depending on the tides and recent rainfall, so what you'll find can be anything from ankle-deep puddles to a proper swimming hole. The Rock Pool sits along the coastline near Newcastle, carved naturally into the rocky shoreline where generations of locals have come to splash about. On a good day with decent water levels, it's brilliant fun for families with young children who want something more adventurous than a traditional beach paddle.

Brave souls do swim here year-round, though you'll need a wetsuit outside summer months. The water's always pretty chilly even in July, but that's half the appeal if you're after a proper wild swimming experience. Kids absolutely love scrambling over the rocks and exploring the smaller pools that form around the main one.

Timing your visit is everything - check the tide times and recent weather before making the trip. Low tide often reveals the best pools, while storms can make the whole area unsafe. It's completely free, naturally, though there are no facilities whatsoever so come prepared.

If you're staying at one of the nearby parks like Bloody Bridge Campsite or Murlough Cottage Caravan Park, this makes a lovely afternoon adventure combined with a walk along the Mourne coast. Just don't expect it to look the same twice - that's part of the charm.