About us
We value the connection between people, nature and ideas, knowing that community and collective effort is the key to lasting change.
How We Got Started
The Dolmens Climate Action Network began as a simple conversation about climate change at the 2018 Soma Arts Festival in Castlewellan.
What started as a single gathering of over 70 people quickly grew into a series of monthly meetings, bringing together a community eager to learn, share ideas and take action.
Where We Are
The Dolmens brings people together across South-East County Down, Northern Ireland.
Inspired by the four ancient dolmens that form a natural ring around Castlewellan, our name reflects both our roots and our reach, spanning the surrounding areas of Newcastle, Dundrum, Kilkeel, and Hilltown.
Our Values
We are guided by community, care and action. We believe in supporting one another, learning together and taking practical steps toward a sustainable future.
Inclusivity, resilience and creativity shape everything we do. We celebrate the small wins as part of a bigger journey.
Why we do what we do
We do what we do because climate change can feel overwhelming—but we believe real change starts at a local level, with people coming together to support one another and take practical action.
The Dolmens exists to create a space where individuals feel empowered, connected and capable of making a difference in their everyday lives. By building skills, sharing knowledge and strengthening community ties, we help turn concern into confidence and ideas into action.
At its heart, our work is about creating a more resilient, sustainable future. One that is rooted in community, shaped by collective effort, and open to everyone.
How we show up
At the Dolmens, we show up by being hands-on, inclusive and community-led. We meet people where they are, offering opportunities to learn, share, and take action. Whether that’s planting trees, swapping plants, repairing household items or exploring the local landscape on a foraging walk.
We do what we can, when we can, aware that no matter how much we do, it will never be enough. We are here to support each other and keep moving forward together. We listen, collaborate and adapt, ensuring that our activities reflect the interests and needs of our community.
Every event, project and initiative is rooted in participation, care and a commitment to sustainability. Because we know real change happens when people come together and take action, step by step.