Slieve Donard walk, Mourne Mountains

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Britain’s Favourite 100 Walks
Slieve Donard walk, Mourne Mountains

Walk Overview
This mountainous walk climbs from the coastal town of Newcastle to the summit of Slieve Donard, the highest peak in Northern Ireland. Situated in the wild and rugged Mourne Mountains, Slieve Donard is a fine mountain that towers above the east coast of County Down.

The walk is popular with everyone from experienced hillwalkers to charity challengers trying to complete the 4 Peaks Challenge (summiting the highest mountains in Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland), and although Slieve Donard rises to a thigh burning height of 850 metres, it’s within the capabilities of most hillwalkers.

You’ll start with a section of Scots pine forest then climb alongside the Glen River before meeting the Mourne Wall, which leads all the way to the summit of Slieve Donard. Descend via the same route, slapping yourself on the back for bagging a country high point and soaking in stunning views across mountains and sea.

This route was voted 66th in a 2017 ITV poll to find Britain’s Favourite Walk.

Carpark: Donard Car Park, 5 Donard Park, Newcastle BT33 0HL

train Nearest Train (or tube) Station(s):
Newry, Belfast

Read the Countryside Code before venturing out
Make sure to take a map and compass, and know how to use them before going into our National Parks #BeAdventureSmart

Tips for New Walkers: click here to download (PDF).

Remember to prepare properly before heading out on any type of walk or outdoor activity. Tell people where you are going and what time you are expected back. As Wainwright says "There's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing".