Magical portal to the Mournes opens as week-long celebration brings hidden landscape to life

Construction of the Silent Valley ‘overflow bell-mouth’ as part of the reservoir scheme built between 1926 and 1932

A magical gateway into one of Northern Ireland’s most treasured landscapes will open this weekend as a packed programme of walks, tours and family events invites visitors to experience the Mournes in a whole new way.

From the hidden history of Water Town to the engineering marvel of the Mourne Wall and behind-the-scenes access to vital water infrastructure, from Sunday 28 June Mournes Week promises to reveal stories and places that many people have never had the opportunity to explore.

The initiative sees NI Water joining forces with Mourne Heritage Trust, the National Trust and local groups to deliver a diverse programme designed to connect people with the landscape, heritage and conservation work that define the Mourne Mountains.

The events offer visitors the chance not only to enjoy some of Northern Ireland’s most spectacular scenery, but also to better understand the people, engineering achievements and environmental efforts that continue to shape the region today.

Exploring the stories behind the landscape

Some of the Mournes’ most enchanting locations will be brought to life through guided experiences taking place throughout the week.

Among the highlights are opportunities to discover the history of Water Town, explore sections of the iconic Mourne Wall and take part in family-friendly activities designed to introduce younger visitors to the area’s natural heritage.

The programme aims to showcase both the cultural significance and environmental importance of the mountains while encouraging people to engage with and protect the landscape for future generations.

For local families and visitors alike, the events provide an opportunity to see the Mournes from a different perspective — not simply as a destination for walking and tourism, but as a living landscape shaped by history, engineering and conservation.

Behind the scenes at Silent Valley and Fofanny

Bell‑mouth overflow “plughole” at Silent Valley Reservoir today

One of the standout events of the week will take place at Silent Valley Mountain Park on Thursday, July 2, when NI Water hosts an evening talk and guided walk exploring the industrial and engineering heritage of the area.

Visitors will hear the stories behind some of Northern Ireland’s most ambitious water engineering projects and gain a deeper appreciation of the role the Mournes have played in supplying water to communities for generations.

There will also be rare opportunities to tour Fofanny Water Treatment Works, giving visitors an insight into the journey water takes before it reaches homes and businesses across Northern Ireland.

The tours will allow participants to walk around the facility and learn about the processes involved in transforming raw water from the mountains into safe drinking water — a process many take for granted every time they turn on a tap.

Protecting a remarkable landscape

Gary Presho, NI Water Area Supply Manager, said Mournes Week provides an important opportunity to help people understand the significance of the area and the work that continues behind the scenes to protect it.

He said:

“Mournes Week is a fantastic opportunity to open a window into the rich history, engineering achievements and ongoing conservation work that make this area so special.

“From the legacy of Silent Valley and the stories of places like Water Town, to the vital environmental work happening across the uplands today, we’re proud to work alongside the Mourne Heritage Trust and other partners through Forever Mournes to help people connect with, understand and protect this remarkable landscape for generations to come.”

How to take part

The week-long programme offers something for history enthusiasts, walkers, families and anyone with an interest in one of Northern Ireland’s most celebrated natural environments.

With exclusive access to locations, expert-led tours and opportunities to explore the stories hidden behind familiar landscapes, organisers hope the events will inspire a deeper appreciation of the Mournes and the communities and organisations working to preserve them.

Visitors can view the full programme and book places through the official Mournes Week booking page.

As interest in outdoor experiences, local heritage and environmental awareness continues to grow, organisers hope Mournes Week will help more people discover not only the beauty of the mountains, but also the remarkable stories, engineering achievements and conservation efforts that continue to shape this unique landscape.

Places on a number of events are expected to be limited and advance booking is recommended.

For event details and bookings:

Mournes Week Event Booking

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