The commercial health of the town of Newry has always been closely linked to the transport system of the time. As the first major town one reaches on the route from Dublin to Belfast, its location has always been of strategic importance. As transport developed over the years, so did the significance of this town. The population peak which Newry reached in 1881 had much to do with the popularity of the inland canal, the Mills, the tram and the railways. However, the turn of the century saw the beginning of a period of decline in these industries. This era of degeneration lasted until the 1960s. By then the railways, trams and canal transport industry had all closed down.
Happily, Newry has turned itself around and is now a vibrant commercial centre. After 850 years of growth and development, it has firmly grasped the spirit of regeneration. The injection of public capital in the 1970s improved commumications greatly and sowed the seeds which have now come to fruition, making Newry a positive and exciting place to visit.
For the tourist, Newry is an ideal place to base yourself when exploring the Mourne Mountains. Excellent golf courses are also in the area. Warrenpoint is the region's premier championship course and there are a range of golfing challenges here as well as at Ashfield and Kilkeel. If you wish to venture further afield you have the best on the doorstep - Royal County Down, the world famous links golf course.
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