Mourne Mountains: Slieve Commedagh from Newcastle

At a Glance

Distance

11.5 km (7.1 miles)

Difficulty

Hard

Duration

5 hr

Walk Type

Peak, Moorland, River, Forest

Route Type

Out and Back

Off Lead Potential

Moderate

Livestock Risk

High

Facilities

Toilets, cafes and shops along Newcastle promenade a 5 minute walk from Donard Park car park.

Parking

Pay and display at Donard Park car park, several hundred spaces, busy at weekends.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is Mourne Mountains: Slieve Commedagh from Newcastle dog friendly?

  Slieve Commedagh from Newcastle is a solid choice for dogs, earning a rating of 7.5 out of 10 on Wildpack Collective. The route via Donard Park and the Glen River offers a genuinely rewarding big day out in the Mournes, though there are a couple of sections where leads are required, so it suits dogs that are comfortable on varied mountain terrain.

• Can dogs be off lead at Mourne Mountains: Slieve Commedagh from Newcastle?

  There are sections where leads are essential rather than optional. Dogs must be kept on a lead near the base where sheep graze along the river corridor, and again on the final approach to the summit where the exposed ground poses a real risk to loose dogs. In between, the open fell offers more freedom, but always use your judgement on a mountain route like this.

• What should I know before visiting Mourne Mountains: Slieve Commedagh from Newcastle with my dog?

  This is a serious mountain walk with around 760 metres of ascent, covering stone stepped paths, rough grass and granite boulders — your dog will need to be fit and sure-footed. Parking is pay and display at Donard Park, which can get busy at weekends, and toilets, cafes and shops are a short five-minute walk away along Newcastle promenade. At 765 metres, Slieve Commedagh is a big day out, so plan ahead and check conditions before you set off.

Donard Park Car Park, Central Promenade

54.2147, -5.8800