2 December 2019

A guide to living in Newry

Are you planning a move to Newry? Propertynews.com have created a guide to living in Newry which showcases the best that this town has to offer.

Living in Newry

Revered as the gateway to the north, Newry offers the bustle of city living, with the serenity of a close-knit community. Nestled amidst the unrivalled beauty of the Mourne Mountains and the Ring of Gullion, it resides on the outskirts of Game of Thrones territory and is widely known as home to the legend of St. Patrick.

Steeped in history, Newry established its roots as a thriving trading port, where markets, merchants and bartering became a way of life. The city’s industrious roots are very much at its heart, with place names such as Custom House Quay, Buttercrane Quay and Canal Boat Street testament to this. While the city was subject to rejuvenation, it thankfully has lost none of its charms. Historic buildings were given a new lease of life and pave the way for fresh stories to tell future generations.

Newry is regarded as one of Northern Ireland’s premium shopping destinations. Its proximity to the border makes it popular with those on either side. Modern shopping centres such as The Quays and The Buttercrane are home to a selection of high street stores. Plus, meander a little further from the centre to uncover an array independent retailers.

Who is Newry is ideal for

With its fairly recent city status, Newry’s innovation appeals to all. Those living in Newry benefits from a superb location that makes it a popular choice with commuters. A wide variety of contemporary new developments are highly sought by families.

Compass image used in the guide to living in Newry blog post.

Where to eat in Newry?

The Shelbourne: An institution in Newry, this family-run restaurant is renowned for its delectable selection of home-baked goods. Packed with shoppers seeking solace and lunchtime revellers, the aroma of freshly baked delights fills the air of Newry.

The Bank Bar & Bistro: Serving a mixture of old favourites and modern dishes, the award-winning Bank Bar & Bistro stands as a firm favourite in Newry. Premier drinks and live entertainment ensure a fun-filled night for all.

Rice’s Hotel: Offering traditional dishes with modern influences, Rice’s Hotel effortlessly exceeds diners’ expectations. Exposed brickwork and cosy booths give the venue a stylish yet intimate feel.

Courtney’s Steakhouse: Newry’s newest steakhouse launched with an emphasis on locally sourced beef with maximum flavour and tenderness. As well as premium steaks, seafood specials are going down a storm.

The Supper Club: The French-style bistro located in Newry City Centre was opened with the ethos of 1930’s South American Supper Clubs, focusing on people’s love for good food, friendly hospitality and a reasonable bill at the end of the night.

The Brass Monkey: Whether you crave formal dining or tasty pub-grub style food, have your expectations exceeded at The Brass Monkey. Following a recent renovation, the venue has received a string of rave reviews, which are sure to continue.

What to do in Newry?

Bagenal’s Castle: Rediscovered in 1996, Bagenal’s Castle survived, enveloped in the premises of the former McCann’s Bakery on Abbey Way. Upon its discovery, the castle has been preserved and restored and remains a popular destination with tourists and locals alike.

Newry and Mourne Museum: Housed at Bagenal’s Castle, the museum has welcomed visitors from all over the world, who have enjoyed the rich tapestry of this region’s history on display throughout the building.

Ring of Gullion: An area of outstanding natural beauty, the Ring of Gullion is a unique geological landform, unparalleled elsewhere in Ireland or the UK and was the first ring dyke in the world to be geologically mapped. In particular, the vast Forest Park offers endless opportunities to enjoy its natural beauty.

Cranfield Beach: Just half an hour from the city centre resides the gently sloping, mainly sandy, Cranfield Beach. Set in an idyllic location at the mouth of Carlingford Lough in County Down, this south facing beach boasts the majestic Mourne Mountains as a backdrop.

Flagstaff viewpoint: At the peak you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Carlingford Lough, forest mountains, spectacular greenery and the Irish Sea, creating an unforgettable scene.

The Quays and The Buttercrane shopping centres: Savvy shoppers head straight for the city’s prime shopping centres, with their inviting offering of high street stores, showcasing fashion, beauty and technology.

Schools in Newry

Newry High School: Newry High School was first established at the end of the 19th century and has been known under its current name since 1966. Newry High has a proven track record for providing a high quality of education for pupils of all abilities.

St Paul’s High School: St Paul’s is a Catholic high school which works to provide a broad and balanced curriculum in a supportive environment. St Pauls also provides a range of extra-curricular activities and opportunities to learn outside the classroom.

Sacred Heart Grammar School: Sacred Heart Grammar School is a voluntary Grammar School who is managed by its Board of Governors and the Sisters of St Clare. The school has an excellent academic record and strives to maximise the student’s academic and creative potential.

Our Lady’s Grammar School: Our Lady’s Grammar was first established in 1887 by the Covent of Mercy and mother Emmanuel Russell. The school moved to its current site in 1992. It is recognised as one of the top Grammar schools in the country.

Abbey Christian Brothers’ Grammar School: Founded in 1850, the school now provides a Catholic education to boys between the ages of 11-18. Christian Brothers’ provides a broad and balanced curriculum alongside a vast array of extra-curricular activities.

St Mary’s High School: St Mary’s opened its doors in 1961 to 641 pupils. Since then, the school has continued its commitment to providing excellent teaching to post-primary pupils. In 2009, the school was designated a specialist school in mathematics & business due to its high level of academic achievement.