Slieve Donard from Bloody Bridge

Slieve Donard is Northern Ireland's highest mountain at 850 metres, and the Bloody Bridge route follows the river upstream through open moorland before a sustained climb to the granite summit along the Mourne Wall, the remarkable dry-stone boundary that runs across the entire mountain range. This 12.1km circuit is a serious mountain day with 857 metres of ascent, climbing from sea level to the summit through terrain that shifts from riverside heath to exposed boulder-strewn mountainside. The views from the top extend across the Irish Sea to the Isle of Man, Scotland and the Wicklow Mountains. The Mourne Wall provides both navigation aid and shelter on the exposed summit ridge.

This is one of the finest dog friendly walks in Northern Ireland for fit, experienced mountain dogs. The lower moorland section following the Bloody Bridge river is superb for off-lead running, with heather, bog and mountain stream crossings that most dogs find irresistible. Higher up, the terrain becomes rockier and more exposed, and leads are sensible on the steepest sections. The mountain streams provide excellent cold water throughout the ascent. Livestock is present on the lower moorland slopes, so leads are needed through grazing areas. The summit is exposed to severe weather from every direction, so full mountain kit is essential. Bloody Bridge car park on the A2 coast road provides access. Newcastle town is nearby with numerous dog-friendly pubs. Not suitable for unfit, elderly or nervous dogs.