Sunday 4th March 2018
Hi everyone, the walk this week, Sunday 4th March, is Slieve Martin.
Meeting at 10.30am in the lower car park of Kilbroney Forest Park.
Please let us know if you are coming on this one.
Meeting at 10.30am in the lower car park of Kilbroney Forest Park.
Please let us know if you are coming on this one.
Sunday 25th February 2018
Hi everyone, we're keeping a tight eye on the weather for this week's walk and it's looking good - cold but dry, so wrap up warm.
Meeting at Ott car park (also known as Blue Quarry car park) on the Slievenaman Road at 10.30am.
Not a strenuous walk by any means but this will get us into the heart of the Mournes.
If it's too icy there is another wee gem up Sammy's sleeve we can do.
Meeting at Ott car park (also known as Blue Quarry car park) on the Slievenaman Road at 10.30am.
Not a strenuous walk by any means but this will get us into the heart of the Mournes.
If it's too icy there is another wee gem up Sammy's sleeve we can do.
Sunday 18th February 2018
Tollymore Forest Park.
Meeting in the main car park (Bryansford Road entrance) at 10.30am.
This week will be another moderate walk that is ideal for anyone wanting to shake off the Winter blues.
There is a £5 entrance fee.
After this week the walks will start to gradually get a bit longer & higher.
Meeting in the main car park (Bryansford Road entrance) at 10.30am.
This week will be another moderate walk that is ideal for anyone wanting to shake off the Winter blues.
There is a £5 entrance fee.
After this week the walks will start to gradually get a bit longer & higher.
Sunday 11th February 2018
Castlewellan Forest Park
Meeting in the main car park at 10.30am.
After a hard Winter weather-wise and the dreaded flu which has been particularly severe this year, we are getting the show back on the road this weekend with a nice wee starter walk.
Remember £5 entrance fee to the park or you can park out in the square and walk in.
Meeting in the main car park at 10.30am.
After a hard Winter weather-wise and the dreaded flu which has been particularly severe this year, we are getting the show back on the road this weekend with a nice wee starter walk.
Remember £5 entrance fee to the park or you can park out in the square and walk in.
Sunday 12th October 2017
Barnavave, Paddy's Top & The Famine Village
Start Time: 10.30am
Car Park: Carlingford Car Park, behind the Tourist Information Office. Grid Ref: J188 119
The Cooley Mountains are steeped in Irish folklore with Slieve Foy said to resemble the resting place of Fionn McCumhaill.
Starting off from the car park at the Tourist Information Office we will follow the waymarks of the Tain Way through the town. The waymarks lead past a church and up a laneway until reaching the open hillside. From here, a well maintained track leads up to The Golyin Pass, the crest of the ridge which once served as a trading route. The Tain Way continues straight on down the other side of the ridge, while to the left is the summit of Barnavave. We will then cross over to Paddy's Top then drop down into the hidden valley where Queen Medbh and her army from Connaught pitched camp whilst searching for the elusive and ferocious Brown Bull of Cooley. Continuing on down the slope we will pass through the deserted village where stone-built houses stand roofless and back to the car park in Carlingford.
Start Time: 10.30am
Car Park: Carlingford Car Park, behind the Tourist Information Office. Grid Ref: J188 119
The Cooley Mountains are steeped in Irish folklore with Slieve Foy said to resemble the resting place of Fionn McCumhaill.
Starting off from the car park at the Tourist Information Office we will follow the waymarks of the Tain Way through the town. The waymarks lead past a church and up a laneway until reaching the open hillside. From here, a well maintained track leads up to The Golyin Pass, the crest of the ridge which once served as a trading route. The Tain Way continues straight on down the other side of the ridge, while to the left is the summit of Barnavave. We will then cross over to Paddy's Top then drop down into the hidden valley where Queen Medbh and her army from Connaught pitched camp whilst searching for the elusive and ferocious Brown Bull of Cooley. Continuing on down the slope we will pass through the deserted village where stone-built houses stand roofless and back to the car park in Carlingford.
Sunday 29th October 2017
** CHANGE TO SCHEDULED POST**
Slieve Lamagan
Start Time: 10.30am
Car Park: Carricklittle, Head Road. Grid Ref: J345 219 - This is for the lower car park, continue up the lane for safe parking (fee £3).
Slieve Lamagan is one of the seven 700 metre peaks of the Mourne Mountains. The name Lamagan means "by hands and feet"!
After leaving Annalong Wood we continue on the track, past the Percy Bysshe and the Blue Lough to the saddle of Slieve Binnian and Slieve Lamagan, where the work really begins!
A steep climb to the peak offers beautiful panoramic mountain views. Then following the path down to Upper Cover, and on to Lower Cove we head to Annalong Wood and back to the car park.
Slieve Lamagan
Start Time: 10.30am
Car Park: Carricklittle, Head Road. Grid Ref: J345 219 - This is for the lower car park, continue up the lane for safe parking (fee £3).
Slieve Lamagan is one of the seven 700 metre peaks of the Mourne Mountains. The name Lamagan means "by hands and feet"!
After leaving Annalong Wood we continue on the track, past the Percy Bysshe and the Blue Lough to the saddle of Slieve Binnian and Slieve Lamagan, where the work really begins!
A steep climb to the peak offers beautiful panoramic mountain views. Then following the path down to Upper Cover, and on to Lower Cove we head to Annalong Wood and back to the car park.
Sunday 15th October 2017
**CHANGE TO SCHEDULED POST**
Slieve Meelmore via Spellack
Start Time: 10.30am
Car Park: Meelmore Lodge, Trassey Road.
Grid Ref: J306 307
At 687m Slieve Meelmore is not technically over 700m but is classed as such for the annual Seven Sevens mountain race (on older maps the height is mistakenly given as 704m).
Starting at Meelmore Lodge we will follow the track to the top of the hill, cross the stile and head over to Spellack. We will scramble up the steep slopes, which is mostly grass, until we gain the crest of the slope, then turn right to move up an easy slope which will eventually lead to the top of the Spellack buttress. From the top of here we will head directly up the ridge to the summit of Slieve Meelmore.
This is one of the easiest yet most rewarding scrambles in the Mournes.
Slieve Meelmore via Spellack
Start Time: 10.30am
Car Park: Meelmore Lodge, Trassey Road.
Grid Ref: J306 307
At 687m Slieve Meelmore is not technically over 700m but is classed as such for the annual Seven Sevens mountain race (on older maps the height is mistakenly given as 704m).
Starting at Meelmore Lodge we will follow the track to the top of the hill, cross the stile and head over to Spellack. We will scramble up the steep slopes, which is mostly grass, until we gain the crest of the slope, then turn right to move up an easy slope which will eventually lead to the top of the Spellack buttress. From the top of here we will head directly up the ridge to the summit of Slieve Meelmore.
This is one of the easiest yet most rewarding scrambles in the Mournes.
Sunday 1st October 2017
Start Time: 10.30am
Car Park: Blue Quarry (Ott) Car Park, Slievenaman Road. Grid Ref: J279 279
This walk is part of the Ulster Federation of Rambling Clubs (UFRC) Open Weekend.
What a day on our first Invitation Walk. It was wall to wall fog, rain and strong winds but it didn't deter the hardy souls that came out to walk. We changed the walk from Doan to Slieve Loughshannagh (actually higher than Doan by 25 metres) for safety reasons, but still a good walk and enjoyed by everyone.
Thanks to all who turned out, it was a pleasure to walk with you today. The weather was disappointing, especially for those on their first mountain walk but everyone done brilliantly. Hopefully we'll see you again soon on a drier day.
Car Park: Blue Quarry (Ott) Car Park, Slievenaman Road. Grid Ref: J279 279
This walk is part of the Ulster Federation of Rambling Clubs (UFRC) Open Weekend.
What a day on our first Invitation Walk. It was wall to wall fog, rain and strong winds but it didn't deter the hardy souls that came out to walk. We changed the walk from Doan to Slieve Loughshannagh (actually higher than Doan by 25 metres) for safety reasons, but still a good walk and enjoyed by everyone.
Thanks to all who turned out, it was a pleasure to walk with you today. The weather was disappointing, especially for those on their first mountain walk but everyone done brilliantly. Hopefully we'll see you again soon on a drier day.
Sunday 17th September 2017
Start Time: 10am
Car Park: Cecil Newman Car Park, Trassey Road. Grid Ref: J311 315
Please note earlier starting time this week.
Leaving the car park we will head up the road to the start of the Trassey Track. When we come to the forde in the Trassey River we will take up left and follow the track onto Slievenaglogh to the Mourne Wall. At this point we take left and follow the wall over Slieve Corragh, past the Pots of Legawherry and a stiff climb onto Slieve Commedagh. After lunch we will then drop down to the saddle between Slieve Commedagh & Slieve Donard to follow the Brandy Pad round to the Hare's Gap and back down the Trassey Track to the car park.
Car Park: Cecil Newman Car Park, Trassey Road. Grid Ref: J311 315
Please note earlier starting time this week.
Leaving the car park we will head up the road to the start of the Trassey Track. When we come to the forde in the Trassey River we will take up left and follow the track onto Slievenaglogh to the Mourne Wall. At this point we take left and follow the wall over Slieve Corragh, past the Pots of Legawherry and a stiff climb onto Slieve Commedagh. After lunch we will then drop down to the saddle between Slieve Commedagh & Slieve Donard to follow the Brandy Pad round to the Hare's Gap and back down the Trassey Track to the car park.
Saturday 9th September 2017
Hi everyone, a wee shout on the North Coast Walk on Saturday. The plan is to be in Portrush at the bus station on Dunluce Avenue beside the former Dunluce Centre for around 10.20am. The bus leaves at 10.34am for the Giant's Causeway where our walk begins and I'm hoping we can get a wee cuppa before we start. Anyone not sure about anything just shout or anyone wants to meet up enroute send me a message. This is billed as the most spectacular part of the NCW. Tim don't forget your bus pass, I'm trying hard not to forget mine, I have it 3 years and this'll be the first I've used it. Kathy checked and the bus fare is £3.50. It's not too bad.
Sunday 20th August 2017
Hi everyone, we have been watching the weather very closely and as there is rain due from about 2pm we're heading back to the Western Mournes. Meeting at the Hen car park (same one as last week), the walk is Hen and Cock Mountains, the latter is the weather holds, starting a little earlier at 10am.
This is a moderate enough walk and should three and a half to four hours, if we don't cut it short. We can't take the chance of someone slipping and breaking an arm or a leg in wet conditions.
This is a moderate enough walk and should three and a half to four hours, if we don't cut it short. We can't take the chance of someone slipping and breaking an arm or a leg in wet conditions.
Sunday 13th August 2017
Hi everyone, just a wee shout about this weeks walk. Meeting at Hen car park on the Sandbank Road at usual time 10.30am. Our top for the day is Slievemoughanmore and Wee Slievemoughan from the Hen Track. The weather is looking favourable at the moment. Anyone not sure where to meet give me a shout. Bring your maps and compasses and we'll have a bit of fun.
Sunday 6th August 2017
I've been keeping a tight eye on the weather and have just had a word with Barra Best and he assures me it'll be sunshine and a few wee showers on Sunday, nothing to keep you in the house wishing you were out!. This week's walk is a fantastic new route in the Cooley Mountains, The Joe Foyle Way. Meeting at the Lumpers Pub in Ravensdale at the usual time of 10.30am. Anyone not sure where the Lumpers is can meet us in Tesco's carpark at The Outlet in Banbridge around 9.45am, or wherever suits you enroute, but please let us know so we don't leave without you.
Sunday 23rd July 2017
Hi folks it's time to get you back on the hills again, you've all had enough time off lazing about, lol.
This Sunday, 23rd July, we are heading to the Western Mournes. We will meet at Leitrim Lodge at the usual time of 10.30am and head up the track onto Altataggart Mountain and across onto Tievedockaragh down to the back of Kilbroney Park and back along the Yellow River to Leitrim Lodge.
This Sunday, 23rd July, we are heading to the Western Mournes. We will meet at Leitrim Lodge at the usual time of 10.30am and head up the track onto Altataggart Mountain and across onto Tievedockaragh down to the back of Kilbroney Park and back along the Yellow River to Leitrim Lodge.
Sunday 2nd July 2017
Hi folks the walk this week is Hen Mountain, meeting at the car park at the end of the Hen track, that is the first car park on your right on the Sandbank Road, which is the first road on the right on the Hilltown to Spelga Dam road. Anyone not sure just shout. Meeting at 10.30am.
There won't be any walks for the following 3 weeks, until 23rd July, due to Holidays.
The weather forecast is looking good for Sunday, maybe a wee rain shower but it'll be warm rain.
There won't be any walks for the following 3 weeks, until 23rd July, due to Holidays.
The weather forecast is looking good for Sunday, maybe a wee rain shower but it'll be warm rain.
Sunday 25th June 2017
Hi everyone the walk this week is Slievenaglogh, the one overlooking the Silent Valley. Meeting at the Gamekeepers Lodge at the usual time of 10.30am. The forecast isn't looking too bad but bring the waterproofs anyway. Anyone not sure where to meet just give us a shout.
Sunday 18th June 2017
The walk this week is Doan, meeting at the Ott car park at usual time of 10.30am. A fairly easy wee walk, and with the weather looking good and not like last week, what better place to be than the Mourne Mountains.
Sunday 11th June 2017
WALK CHANGED TO TOLLYMORE FOREST PARK DUE TO BAD WEATHER
Hi everyone, keeping a tight eye on the weather and at the minute it's giving rain showers so we'll see how it goes and could change the walk if it gets rough. The walk is one I've been looking forward to for a while, the beautiful Slieve Bearnagh. Meeting at Meelmore Lodge at the usual time of 10.30am. As the 4th highest in the Mournes it's no pushover but once up there it's all worthwhile, and really it's not too bad.
Hi everyone, keeping a tight eye on the weather and at the minute it's giving rain showers so we'll see how it goes and could change the walk if it gets rough. The walk is one I've been looking forward to for a while, the beautiful Slieve Bearnagh. Meeting at Meelmore Lodge at the usual time of 10.30am. As the 4th highest in the Mournes it's no pushover but once up there it's all worthwhile, and really it's not too bad.
Sunday 28th May 2017
Just a wee shout about this week’s walk. With my arm up my back a few wanted a wee handy one this week so I've opted for Slieve Donard, lol, only joking. This week’s walk is Slieve Martin and Slievemeen and back by Cloughmore Glen, meeting in Kilbroney top car park at usual time 10.30am. This is a very gentle walk and we can have a late lunch in Kilbroney Park Cafe, they do a lovely sausage bap I'm told. Any questions just shout.
Sunday 14th May 2017
Hi everyone, this week’s walk is Slieve Binnian, 3rd highest in the Mournes and on a good day one of the most scenic. Meeting at Carricklittle at usual time of 10.30am, use the car park up the lane there's a £3 parking fee but at least your car is safe. We'll head up the Annalong Valley past the Blue Lough to the Binnian-Lammigan saddle and up left to the North Tor on Binnian and across to the Summit Tor. The weather is looking half decent and we should be able to have good views. Anyone not sure about where to meet let me know and I'll meet in Newcastle around 10am. It'll not be as warm as last week but bring the sun cream and midge spray anyway.
Sunday 7th May 2017
As you know this weeks walk is Cuilcagh Mountain in Co. Fermanagh, the start of which is beside the Marble Arch Caves. The plan is to be at the Marble Arch Caves for around 10am, have a cup of tea/coffee and start the walk at 10.30am. Anyone travelling from Lurgan, Belfast, Downpatrick areas if you want to meet us at the filling station just off the M1 motorway at the Oxford Island/Lurgan turn-off and we can sort out lifts and share cars, we would need to be meeting here at around 8am. Please let us know if you're meeting us here, anyone not sure of anything just give me a shout.
This is a fantastic non-strenuous walk to the "Stairway to Heaven" and the top of Fermanagh/Cavan as the border runs through the trig point on the large cairn which marks the top. Then hopefully a wee look out from the Lough Atona Buttress on the other side of the mountain. The walk is approx 15k and allowing 5-6 hours including time for lunch on the top and plenty of photos.
See you all on Sunday morning.
This is a fantastic non-strenuous walk to the "Stairway to Heaven" and the top of Fermanagh/Cavan as the border runs through the trig point on the large cairn which marks the top. Then hopefully a wee look out from the Lough Atona Buttress on the other side of the mountain. The walk is approx 15k and allowing 5-6 hours including time for lunch on the top and plenty of photos.
See you all on Sunday morning.
Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th April 2017
REC2 FIRST AID COURSE.
This coming Saturday and Sunday, 29th and 30th April is our Rescue Emergency Care first aid course. On Saturday we meet at Meelmore Lodge at 9.30am and on Sunday we move to Kilbroney Park for outdoor scenarios, again meeting at 9.30am in the lower car park. A packed lunch can be brought on Saturday or lunch can be bought in Meelmore Lodge. On Sunday come prepared for a mountain environment, all your usual gear and packed lunch.
See you all Saturday morning.
This coming Saturday and Sunday, 29th and 30th April is our Rescue Emergency Care first aid course. On Saturday we meet at Meelmore Lodge at 9.30am and on Sunday we move to Kilbroney Park for outdoor scenarios, again meeting at 9.30am in the lower car park. A packed lunch can be brought on Saturday or lunch can be bought in Meelmore Lodge. On Sunday come prepared for a mountain environment, all your usual gear and packed lunch.
See you all Saturday morning.
Sunday 23rd April 2017
Hello everyone, hope you've all had a good Easter, all the Easter eggs eaten and you are looking forward to getting back out in the hills again. A nice wee trot lined up this week in the form of the Bird Mountains - Pigeon, Cock and Hen. Meeting at the Deers Meadow which is at the start of the wee road that runs into Spelga Dam from the Killeel Road, grid ref. J293297, at the usual time of 10.30am. Anyone not too sure let me know and we can meet you at the Spelga Dam car park.
Sunday 9th April 2017
This weeks walk is "The Secret Valley". Meeting at the Cecil Newman car park on the Trassey Road at the usual time of 10.30am. The car park is just beside the Trassey Track and just down the road from Meelmore Lodge. The forecast isn't giving anything like last week at the moment but I think it'll be fine, and it's not too bad.
Sunday 2nd April 2017
Hi everyone, just a wee shout on this weeks walk. Chimney Rock Mountain, meeting at the Bloody Bridge at usual time, 10.30am. Weather forecast is looking good for Sunday so no excuses, get the boots on and come on. And to tell you the truth, it's not too bad.
Sunday 19th March 2017
Hi everyone this Sunday 19th March we head back to the Cooleys again and the Annaloughan National Loop Walk, taking in Slievenaglough and the crash site of the RAF B-24 Liberator Bomber 75 years ago. Meeting at Fitzpatricks Restaurant on the Ballymac to Carlingford Road at 10.45am or at The Outlet in Banbridge at 10am. Anyone meeting at The Outlet please let me know. I can safely say for this one, "it's not too bad".
Sunday 12th March 2017
Hi everyone, the walk this Sunday, 12th March is a fantastic new route to try out in the Cooley Mountains, The Joe Foyle Way. Thanks to a very good friend, Jock McArdle, for showing me this one. This walk follows and crisscrosses the river through the forest for about an hour to an hour and a half before coming onto the open mountain and then heading for The Castle and Round Mountain. Not a strenuous walk I'm told and really looking forward to it.
Meeting at the Lumpers Pub in Ravensdale at the usual time 10.30am, or at The Outlet in Banbridge around 9.40am. Anyone meeting at The Outlet please let me know. The weather forecast is looking good so far and it should be a cracker of a walk and I'm told it's not too bad!
Meeting at the Lumpers Pub in Ravensdale at the usual time 10.30am, or at The Outlet in Banbridge around 9.40am. Anyone meeting at The Outlet please let me know. The weather forecast is looking good so far and it should be a cracker of a walk and I'm told it's not too bad!
Sunday 5th March 2017
Hi everyone, the walk this Sunday is Tievedockaragh and The Mass Rock. Meeting at Leitrim Lodge at the usual time of 10.30am. Forecast is for light showers and sunny spells, but we might be lucky.
Sunday 19th February 2017
This week is an unexpected wee trip to the scenic cliffs of Howth and the Bog of Frogs walk organised and led by Michael Hickey of The Oldtown Road Trailbreakers. We will meet in Tescos car park at The Outlet in Banbridge at 8.30am, about an hour earlier than usual, then we'll head to the second Applegreen filling station just North of Dublin Airport and tie in with Michael and his lot at around 10am, and then out to the start of the walk in Howth for around 10.30am. I've been reliably informed the path is mucky in places so walking boots are the order of the day and plenty of warm clothes as it could be cold, so no different from any mountain walk. We're allowing 4 hours so bring the usual packed lunch. I've heard so much about the markets in Howth and all the fine food there, we'll have to get a look at that for sure. Anyone with any queries just give us a shout and see you all on Sunday morning. PS, I'm also assured "it's not too bad".
Sunday 5th February 2017
This week's walk is a nice wee handy one over to Cove and a good scramble up the gulley. Meeting at Carricklittle in the car park up the lane (for safety but a fee of £3 is charged and well worth it) at usual time of 10.30am, we should be on fairly good tracks and this wee boy is the 5th highest in the Mournes, anyone not sure where to go we can meet you in Donard Park.
Sunday 22nd January 2017
Who's up for a nice walk this weekend, something taking in 3 mountains, well I've got the very one. Meeting at the Water Works gates at Dunnywater at the usual time of 10.30am and we'll head for Round Seefin, Long Seefin and then Rocky Mountain. Altogether not a big walk and not too bad, anyone not sure where to meet we can meet you in Donard Park at 10am, but please let us know this is happening. It's giving a fair day weather wise, so get out and get walking.
Sunday 8th January 2017
Hello everyone, I hope you've all had a great Christmas and New Year and looking forward to getting out on the hills again.
This weeks walk, 8th January, will be a nice wee turkey buster just to get us going again before we hit the big boys.
This weeks walk is Slievenaglough and the Hares Gap, meeting at Meelmore Lodge at the usual time of 10.30am, looking forward to seeing you all there for the start of what I hope will be another great years walking.
This weeks walk, 8th January, will be a nice wee turkey buster just to get us going again before we hit the big boys.
This weeks walk is Slievenaglough and the Hares Gap, meeting at Meelmore Lodge at the usual time of 10.30am, looking forward to seeing you all there for the start of what I hope will be another great years walking.
Sunday 18th December 2016
This week is the Mulled Wine and Mince Pie Walk in Castlewellan Forest Park. Meeting in the large car park at 10.30am just across from the Ranger Hut where it's handy for picnic benches. This will be the last walk of 2016 so come along and bring the family, husbands, wives, boyfriends girlfriends, sons, daughters, etc, and they might even get to like this walking lark. This is a great walk suitable for all ages, not by any means strenuous and will get away with good trainers if no boots available. We can get a good 6 miles in Castlewellan Park, taking in the Lake, the Moorish Tower, Slieve Croob view point, the mountain Lake and Slievenaslat and the Gardens and not forgetting the Maze. There's a fee to drive into the park or just park in the car park at the top of the town across from the park gates and walk in.
Friday 25th and Sunday 27th november 2016
Following many requests for a map reading course we have organised a course for next Friday night, the 25th November, in the Jethro Centre in Lurgan starting at 7pm sharp, a great presentation by Kathy one of our ML's. This will take about 3 hours including a break to let your brains cool down and a wee drop of tae or coffee and a bit of Janet's freshly baked tart or one of Emma's buns. If you have a 1.25000 map of the Mournes and a Silva 4 compass please bring them. We will have extra maps and compasses which can be bought at our club discount price on the night. Everyone walking in the mountains should carry a map and compass at all times. We will put the newly learned skills into practice on the Sunday meeting at Leitrim Lodge at usual time. Looking forward to seeing you all at the Jethro Centre next Friday night.
Sunday 13th November 2016
The walk this week, Sunday 13th is Slieve Meelmore and Meelbeg, 6th and 7th highest in the Mournes. Meeting at Happy Valley car park at usual time of 10.30am, or the car park in Hilltown at 10am. Weather wise it's looking good, no rain forecast but be prepared in case. It's to be cold and the temperature will be well down on the top so have a few extra layers handy. Don't forget your wee flask of tae or coffee or something a bit stronger if you feel like it, there's nothing to beat a wee drop of tae on the mountain. Anyone meeting me in Hilltown let me know in case we leave without you and that wouldn't do at all, this walk isn't too bad.
Sunday 6th November 2016
Hi folks, there's no official club walk this week and starting from next week there will be a walk every other week during the winter months. The walk planned for next Sunday 13th is Meelmore and Meelbeg, starting at Happy Valley. Will post meeting arrangements nearer the time.
Sunday 30th October 2016
Hi everyone the walk this week is Slieve Martin. Not just your straightforward up and down but a circular walk taking in Slievebane, Slievedermot, Rostrevor Forest, Slievemeel, Slievemiskin and Slieve Martin, returning by the Cloughmore Stone.
Starting in Kilbroney Park upper car park at usual time of 10.30am. This is a good wee leg stretcher all on good tracks and shouldn't be as mucky as last week, don't forget to put your clock back on Saturday night.
Starting in Kilbroney Park upper car park at usual time of 10.30am. This is a good wee leg stretcher all on good tracks and shouldn't be as mucky as last week, don't forget to put your clock back on Saturday night.
Sunday 23rd October 2016
The walk this Sunday is Doan, right in the middle of the Mourne Mountains. A great wee starter walk with some fantastic views. Meeting at the Ott car park at the usual time of 10.30am or the car park in Hilltown at 10am, just shout if you're not sure. Weather is looking fair for the day, might get a shower so bring your waterproofs, see you all there.
Sunday 2nd October 2016
The walk this week is the Annalong Valley. A good wee 10 miler today up the Annalong Valley to the Brandy Pad and round to the Donard saddle for lunch then on round the Brandy Pad to the Bog of Donard and down to the Bloody Bridge. Meeting at Carricklittle top car park, that's the one up the lane, at the usual time of 10.30am. Anyone not sure how to get there let me know and we can meet in Donard Park. There's a small fee of £3 but at least your car is safe.
Sunday 25th September 2016
Changed to:
We decided we would stay off the mountains this week as there had been a lot of rain and they'd be too slippery and do a nice safe wee 10 miler in Tollymore. That was to about half way and i decided to black out and head butt the ground, nasty wee gash but i was lucky our First Aid team were on hand to sort me out. A good bit of live First Aid practice and Map Reading practice as there's that many wee roads in Tollymore.
Hi lads and lassies, I just can't get the Nevis trip out of my head, but it's time to get back on the trail again and back to the Mournes. The walk this week is the Secret Valley, a nice wee walk to get things going again, meeting at the Cecil Newman car park just at the start of the Trassey Track at the usual time 10.30am. Weather wise it's giving a good decent day, anyone not sure how to get to the Cecil Newman, just let me know.
We decided we would stay off the mountains this week as there had been a lot of rain and they'd be too slippery and do a nice safe wee 10 miler in Tollymore. That was to about half way and i decided to black out and head butt the ground, nasty wee gash but i was lucky our First Aid team were on hand to sort me out. A good bit of live First Aid practice and Map Reading practice as there's that many wee roads in Tollymore.
Hi lads and lassies, I just can't get the Nevis trip out of my head, but it's time to get back on the trail again and back to the Mournes. The walk this week is the Secret Valley, a nice wee walk to get things going again, meeting at the Cecil Newman car park just at the start of the Trassey Track at the usual time 10.30am. Weather wise it's giving a good decent day, anyone not sure how to get to the Cecil Newman, just let me know.
Saturday 10th September 2016
A fantastic weekend with the FHG in the Outdoor Capital of Great Britain, Fort William. A massive thanks to Emma for organising this trip and to Darren for organising the bus and getting us there and back safe and sound. It didn't look good on Friday as we travelled up Scotland, it was horrendous weather the whole way to our destination at Onich. Saturday morning dawned bright and clear and we were set for Ben Nevis. A big thanks to Sandra back in Balbriggan who put her lucky weather charm to work for us and our own Christina who spent most of Friday night on her knees praying for good weather and it worked, thanks girls. What a day it turned out to be, wall to wall sunshine and views in all directions and everyone up and down safely. Guys it was an absolute pleasure to climb Ben Nevis with you and see you all at the top, it really did make an old man very proud.
Sunday 28th August 2016
This weeks walk is Molieve and Wee Binnian, meeting in the Silent valley at the usual time of 10.30am
Sunday 21st August 2016
The walk this week is the beautiful Slieve Foye, starting in Carlingford, meeting at the car park beside the Tourist Information Centre or park along the road at the wall at 10.30am. This is a fantastic walk and we might even throw in a wee scramble on the famous Chimney.
Saturday 13th August 2016
This is a walk we have wanted to do for a long time, years in fact, but just never panned out. 20k from Carrick-a-Rede to The Giant's Causeway. This is a good training walk especially the sand on White Park Bay.
Sunday 7th August 2016
This Sunday we are heading for Slieve Gullion, not far from Newry and just behind the town of Meigh, meeting in the courtyard car park at 10.30am. We will take a route that takes us to Callaigh Berras lake, it's important not to touch the water here or your hair turns grey. We then head for the top of Gullion and the highest passage tomb in Ireland. This is a beautiful wee walk, and the weather is looking good so no excuses - get the boots on and get rambling.
Sunday 31st july 2016
This week we head to the Cooley Mountains for a beautiful scenic walk and steeped in history including the grave of Finn McCool's dog Bran at Carnawaddy. Meeting at the Lumpers Pub at Ballymakellet, Ravensdale at 10.30am or at The Outlet in Banbridge at 9.30am. The weather is looking like it could be in our favour, even if there's a wee shower it's warm rain, so get the boots on, bring a wee lunch snack and plenty of sweets or chocolate as well. The Lumpers have a small charge of 3 Euro to park and it's secure, hopefully see you all on Sunday, and I can safely say, it's not to bad.
Sunday 24th July 2016
This weeks walk will be Lough Shannagh and Carn Mountain, meeting at the Gamekeepers Lodge which is on the main road from Spelga Dam to Kilkeel at 10.30am. Anyone not sure can meet in Hilltown at 10am. This is a beautiful walk into the middle of the Mournes, and not too strenuous, nothing to beat a cup of tea at the lake on a nice day, and the good thing is, it's not too bad.
Sunday 17th July 2016
This Sunday we have decided on a wee mountain I'm sure none of our members have conquered before, hidden away behind Pigeon Rock in the Western Mournes, Slievemaughanmore.
Meeting in Attical at the shop at 10.30am we will drive out to the Sandybrae Road just beside the playing fields. At the top of Sandybrae there's a car park where the adventure begins. We head for the Windy Gap walking below the cliffs of Eagle Ridge, at the Gap we head up right and onto Slievemaughanmore. This is a brilliant walk, the weather is looking favourable, and, honestly it's not too bad.
Meeting in Attical at the shop at 10.30am we will drive out to the Sandybrae Road just beside the playing fields. At the top of Sandybrae there's a car park where the adventure begins. We head for the Windy Gap walking below the cliffs of Eagle Ridge, at the Gap we head up right and onto Slievemaughanmore. This is a brilliant walk, the weather is looking favourable, and, honestly it's not too bad.
Sunday 10th July 2016
Last minute change of walk due to the weather, so we are headed to an old favourite, Castlewellan Park and a nice wee six and a half mile dander. Plenty of hills including Slievenaslat at 272mtrs, not high by any means but a fantastic walk in beautiful surroundings.
Sunday 3rd July 2016
The walk this week is Slieve Commedagh, 2nd highest in the Mournes. W are meeting in Donard Park at the usual time of 10.30am. Our route is the more conventional route up the Glen River and up the steps to the saddle then up to Commedagh summit. Our return route will be down the ridge over Shanslieve and Slievenamaddy to Donard Wood. All in all its not too bad and the weather is looking favorable as well.
Sunday 12th June 2016
The walk this week is Shanlieve and Eagle Mountain, meeting at Leitrim Lodge at usual time of 10.30am. We head up the track towards Pierces Castle and then the Castle Bog. Our climb is then Shanlieve, then over to Eagle, down to the Windy Gap and back to Leitrim Lodge. We might get a shower of rain but hopefully not too much.
Sunday 5th June 2016
With that many roads in the area closed due to a bicycle race, the Grand Fondo, we are going to Kilbroney Park and meeting in the top car park at 10.30am and walking Slieve Martin over to Knockshee.
Sunday 29th May 2016
Only 2 hours drive from home and into County Donegal and Glenveagh National Park. This is a different world indeed, and then onto the highest summit in Donegal, the beautiful Errigal Mountain.The views from the top are stunning.
Sunday 22nd May 2016
We move over the border for this weeks walk to the beautiful village of Carlingford and Slieve Foye. Meeting at the Tourist Information car park overlooking the harbour at usual time of 10.30am, or meet in Tesco car park at The Outlet in Banbridge and car share from there at 9.40am.
Sunday 15th May 2016
Looking good for Sunday folks and this weeks walk is Slieve Bearnagh, 4th highest in the Mournes. We have been holding back on this one for a while till we got good weather so everyone can enjoy the spectacle of this fantastic mountain and the views. Meeting at Meelmore Lodge on the Trassey Road at usual time of 10.30am, car parking is free, and a great wee restaurant for a cup of tea afterwards. Anyone not sure how to get there can arrange to meet in Castlewellan.
Sunday 8th May 2016
The walk this week is Slieve Loughshannagh and Doan, meeting at Ott car park at usual time of 10.30am or Hilltown at 10am. We have new walkers starting and this one isn't too bad, we can extend the walk to Meelbeg for those feeling more energetic.
Sunday 1st May 2016
The walk this week is the Carlingford to Omeath Greenway, and when I say it's not too bad this time, it's not. Meeting at Carlingford Marina, usual time 10.30am. The Marina is on the left before the bridge as you go into Carlingford.
Sunday 24th April 2016
Meeting at the Rocky River car park on the Sandbank road, which is the first road on the right leaving Hilltown heading for Spelga and it's the first car park on the right not far from Leitrim Lodge, on this week at the usual time of 10.30am. The walk is the Bird Mountains, Hen, Cock and Pigeon. This is a nice wee hike for getting started or getting going again and the forecast is looking good. Anyone not too sure where to go we can meet in Hilltown at around 10am.
Sunday 17th April 2016
The walk this Sunday is Round Seefin, Long Seefin, Rocky Mountain and the Hares Castle. A nice gentle stroll this week, not too strenuous and the weather not looking too bad. Meeting at the Water Works Gates on the Head Road near Dunney Water Bridge at 10.30am, or meet at Bloody Bridge around 10am.
Sunday 10th April 2016
Hi everyone, the walk this Sunday is Slieve Binnian. Starting at Carricklittle, the car park up the lane, not the car park at the roadside, anyone not too sure can meet me in Donard Park at 10am or thereabouts. There's a small fee of £3 for this car park but you know your car and belongings are safe.
Binnian is the third highest in the Mournes, and if we get a clear day the views are fantastic, and the weather is looking good.
Binnian is the third highest in the Mournes, and if we get a clear day the views are fantastic, and the weather is looking good.
Sunday 3rd april 2016
The walk tomorrow is Millstone and Thomas's mountains. Starting in Donard car park at 10.30am, this is a great wee sight seeing walk finishing on the Granite Trail and to stretch the legs a bit before next weeks walk, Slieve Binnian, 3rd highest in the Mournes.
Sunday 20th March 2016
This Sunday 20th March the walk is Slieve Meelmore. Meeting at Meelmore Lodge at 10.30am, this is a moderate walk and we'll get up into the middle of the big ones. Slieve Meelmore is the seventh highest in the Mournes.
Sunday 13th March 2016
Good wee starter walk this weekend. Meeting at Leitrim Lodge on Sunday morning at 10.30am the walk will be Pierces Castle, Tornamrock and Rocky Mountain. This will be a nice easy to moderate ramble in the Western Mournes.
Sunday 6th March 2016
Tomorrows walk is the Silent Valley Circuit. Meeting in the Silent Valley car park at 10.30am, this will be a handy wee walk for anybody not out in a while.
Sunday 21st February 2016
This Sunday we head to our good friend Angela's neck of the woods in County Westmeath and one of her favourite walks, Mullaghmeen Forest. A beautiful wee walk, not too difficult, so anyone who wants a handy one this is it! Meeting at The Outlet in Banbridge at 9am and drive down from there.
Sunday 14th February 2016
We are heading for our old hunting ground tomorrow, the beautiful Slieve Gullion. This is not too strenuous a walk and the weather is looking good. This area is steeped in history including Callieach Berras Lough, on top of Gullion and where if you touch the water your hair turns grey, wonder if I touched it would it turn mine black, and the highest Passage Tomb in Ireland. We'll get inside the Tomb for our lunch. Get the boots out and come on, meeting in Slieve Gullion courtyard at 10.30am and maybe a wee cup of tae afterwards in Grounded Slieve Gullion.
Sunday 24th January 2016
A handy wee walk from the Gamekeepers Lodge to Lough Shannagh. With the recent bad weather and more rain forecast tonight, the hills are in bad shape and need a break as well so this is a good clean solid track for anyone wanting to get out in the fresh air and get going again. A great starter walk and the weather is saying cloudy and warm, maybe a shower, but all in all a good day to get out.
Sunday 10th January 2016
This Sunday we are walking the famous Brandy Pad from Trassey to The Bloody Bridge, not too strenuous to start the New Year and get the blood flowing again. Meeting at The Cecil Newman car park on Trassey Road, near the start of the Trassey Track at 10.30am. This is a good solid track all the way except a few meters at the Hares Gap.
Friday 1st January 2016
Due to bad weather this morning and more forecast for this afternoon, the walk leader decided to cancel the walk planned in the interests of safety. So the walk was changed from a nice handy trek along the Brandy Pad to an assault course in Castlewellan Forest Park!
Sunday 20th December 2015
I always look forward to this walk every year, a wee drop of Mulled Wine and a mince pie or two, brilliant after a nice fresh, blowy day on the hills. An unhurried walk will take us to the top of Slieve Martin back down and over to the Narnia Trail and then to Betty Doran's bar in Hilltown. Everyone have a very Merry Christmas and a happy and peaceful New Year, here's to plenty of walking and hiking in 2016, some great walks and trips and activities in the pipeline so keep the boots at the ready.
Sunday 6th December 2015
It will be great to get back on the trail after a few weeks out so a handy wee walk is called for. We will head up the Hen track to Wee Slievemoughan. At 428 metres, not very high by any stretch of the imagination, but enough to get going again.
Sunday 1st November 2015
For the walk this Sunday, 1st November, we will be meeting at Happy Valley at 10.30am. The first climb will be Meelmore, then along the wall and a short climb to Meelbeg. The weather is looking good for Sunday and this walk isn't too strenuous and a great chance to get going after a couple of handy weeks.
Sunday 25th October 2015
This week we will be starting off from the Lumpers pub near Ravensdale, and our walk today will be Round Mountain, The Castle and Carnawaddy, where incidentally Fill McCools dog Bran is buried under the large Cairn there. We will finish off with a visit to Fitzpatrick's bar & Restaurant to see their Halloween display.
Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th October 2015
A weekend with a difference! With so many of the team asking about a map reading course we have booked Meelmore Lodge for this weekend.
On Saturday, after everyone gets their paces for 100 metres and a cup of tea it will be 3 hours of classroom with our own Kathy. After tea it will be out to the hills for 3 hours of night navigation and pacing.
On Sunday, after breakfast it will be back to the hills for more practice.
On Saturday, after everyone gets their paces for 100 metres and a cup of tea it will be 3 hours of classroom with our own Kathy. After tea it will be out to the hills for 3 hours of night navigation and pacing.
On Sunday, after breakfast it will be back to the hills for more practice.
Sunday 4th October 2015
For this week's walk we will be right in the centre of the Mourne Mountains, starting with Ott then over to Doan, down the steep side of Doan and across the valley and nice wee climb to Ben Crom. Fingers crossed for fantastic weather and brilliant views.
Sunday 27th September 2015
The walk this Sunday, 27th September is Slieve Muck and Carn, meeting at the Gamekeepers Lodge at 10.30am. The weather is looking good and hopefully won't finish up like the past 2 weeks with heavy rain.
Sunday 20th September 2015
Hi everyone, the walk this Sunday 20th September is The Secret Valley. Meeting at the Cecil Newman car park at 10.30am, this is the first car park on the Trassey Road and just before Meelmore Lodge. Hope it's not as wet as last week.
Sunday 13th September 2015
For this week's walk we will be heading for the top of Pigeon mountain then onto Cock mountain finishing on Slievenamiskan.
Saturday 5th September 2015
This is where we are heading this weekend, Castlerock Walkfest and Binevenagh mountain. Friend's Hiking Group are travelling down to the North Coast and Castlerock for their annual Walkfest and what a fantastic day we will have, taking on Binevenagh Mountain.
Sunday 30th August 2015
Hi everyone, the walk next Sunday 30th August is in the Coolies. Starting from Fitzpatricks pub and restaurant at 10.30am, a nice walk on Rockmarshall Mountain. Anyone not sure where to go, it's on the main road from Carlingford to Dundalk, or message me and we can arrange to meet in Newry.
Sunday 9th August 2015
Hi everyone, after a two week break its time to get back on the trail again. This weeks walk, on Sunday 2nd August, will be Chimney Rock, starting from the Bloody Bridge car park at 10.30am, or meet me in Donard Park, Newcastle at 10.10am. It looks like it will be dry in the morning with rain coming in during the afternoon, the forecast has been wrong before and could be again, so don't listen to it and get the gear on and get out, it's only rain, and at this time of year I call it warm rain.
Sunday 2nd August 2015
With bad weather forecast we will stay low, and what better place to go than Castlewellan Park. A few of the group haven't been before so we will give them a wee walk in the park, and with the gardens in full bloom it will be very nice indeed.
Sunday 12th July 2015
The walk this week is from Leitrim Lodge. We will do a small circuit of 4 mountains and visit the Mass Rock on Tievedockaragh, hopefully the weather will be a bit kinder than last week. Meeting in Hilltown at 10am for photos at the Boley Hut or Leitrim Lodge at 10.20am
Sunday 5th July 2015
Well everyone, it's back to the Mournes again after our very successful trip to Kerry and the fantastic Carrauntoohil. This week we are climbing Eagle Mountain from Eagle Ridge over to Shanlieve and down to The Windy Gap, over Slievemaughanmore and down the valley. Meeting on Sunday morning 5th July in Attical village in the school car park beside the shop as you enter the village, or meet me in Hilltown at 10am, and Attical at 10.15am, we will then drive out to a wee parking spot I have acquired on the Sandbank Road.
Sunday 21st June 2015
What can I say about this one? A weekend in the Kingdom of Kerry with Friends Hiking Group. A big thank you to Doris for organising and getting this trip together, a great job well done. Our stay will be at Carrauntoohil Bed and Breakfast, a few minutes from Cronin's yard and right beside Carrauntoohil itself.
Sunday 14th June 2015
The walk this week will be Cove Cave, Cove Gully, Lower Cove and Slieve Lamagan. Meeting at Carricklittle, at the upper car park, at 10.30am, that's the car park up the lane where there's a charge of £3 but your car and belongings are safe. Try and get out on this one and get the legs stretched, it's not long now to Carrauntoohil. Anyone not sure where Carricklittle is I'll be in Donard car park at 10am and we'll go out from there.
Sunday 7th June 2015
This week's walk is going to be a cracker. Starting at Meelmore Lodge, first on the list is a great scramble on Spellack then on to Meelmore summit, lunch at the top and then over to Meelbeg and down the back bone to the Ulster Way and back to Meelmore Lodge. This is a fantastic leg stretcher for Carauntouhill so get the boots out and meet up at 10.30am at Meelmore Lodge. If the forecast's right it's going to be warm so bring the sun cream.
Saturday 30th May 2015
The walk this week is on Saturday, and we are meeting at the Ott car park on the Slievenaman Road at the usual time of 10.30. The walk will be Slieve Loughshannagh, Ben Crom and Doan. The weather forecast is looking good, not that it's anything to go by, but if it's good the views into the Silent Valley and Ben Crom Dams are brilliant.
Sunday 24th May 2015
This week's 14k trek is a slightly longer route to Slieve Martin. We will go out by Slievebane, Slievedermot, Rostrevor Forest, Slievemeel and Slievemiskan and onto Slieve Martin from a northerly direction. After a wee lunch stop we will head on over to Slievemeen, Cloughmore Glen and the Cloughmore Stone. Great views all round and finishing with a well deserved cuppa in the café.
Sunday 17th May 2015
This week's walk is Slieve Foye, Barnavave and the Famine Village.
Meeting in Carlingford, beside the Heritage Centre at 10.30am.
Meeting in Carlingford, beside the Heritage Centre at 10.30am.
Bank Holiday Monday 4th May 2015
For a change of scene and pace this week's walk will be the Carlingford to Omeath Greenway.
Start time: 10.30am, Carlingford (beside the Heritage Centre).
Start time: 10.30am, Carlingford (beside the Heritage Centre).
Sunday 26th April 2015
This week's walk is Millstone Mountain and The Granite Trail. Depending on the weather we can lengthen or shorten this walk but so far weather forecast looking favourable. Don't forget your camera, some great views on this one.
Start time: 10.30am, Donard Park
Start time: 10.30am, Donard Park
Sunday 19th April 2015
Meeting at the Gamekeepers Lodge at 10.30am we will be climbing Slievenaglogh, dropping down the ridge to Silent Valley along the road way there to Silent Valley Dam and up the pathways to the Gamekeepers again. Not strenuous, but nice wee walk. The weather forecast is wall to wall sunshine so don't miss out on a great days walking in the Mourne Mountains.
Easter Sunday 5th April 2015
The walk everyone's been waiting on and a great way to spend Easter Sunday. Come and join Friends Hiking Group as we climb Northern Ireland's highest mountain at 850mtrs. Meeting in Donard car park at 10.45am we will head up the Glen River and the Pilgrims route to the Donard/Commedagh saddle and then to Donard summit, where hopefully it will be a good clear day and the views will be spectacular. All in all a tough but brilliant walk.
Sunday 29th March 2015
With the heavy rain overnight and showers forecast for today we decided to stay off the mountains and head for the hard footing of Castlewellan Park. A good walk on the outer perimeter paths and up to Slievenaslat.
Sunday 22nd March 2015
This week we head into the Western Mournes, meeting at Rocky River carpark on the Sandbank Road not far from Hilltown at 10.30am. We walk up the Hen Track to meet the Ulster Way and start the climb to Hen Summit, not too high at 354mtrs, a nice wee warm up, but some great views from its five Tors, then down to the Col and straight up Cock mountain at 505mtrs it has two peaks. After lunch we move onto Slievenamiskan at 444mtrs, and on down to the Spelga Dam, from there to Spelga pass and join the Ulster Way and a nice wee walk round the bottom of Hen and back to the carpark. All in all about 9k, then back to Betty Dorans for a wee cuppa.
Sunday 8th March 2015
Back to Slieve Gullion this week at a special request from some of our new members, and what a beautiful walk it is, taking in Calliagh Berras Lake, where you must not touch the water or your hair turns grey, and the highest portal tomb in Ireland, of which you can go inside. At the Trig there are great views if we get a good day.
Meeting in Gullion bottom carpark at 10.30am, a nice moderate walk after last week, and a wee cup of tea/coffee in Grounded Slieve Gullion at the finish.
Meeting in Gullion bottom carpark at 10.30am, a nice moderate walk after last week, and a wee cup of tea/coffee in Grounded Slieve Gullion at the finish.
sunday 1st March 2015
The walk this week is Slieve Commedagh, covering a distance of 15kms, starting at the Cecil Newman car park on the Trassey Road. Leaving the car park we head up the road to the start of the Trassey Track. When we come to the forde in the Trassey River we take up left and follow the track to Slievenaglogh were we meet the wall. At this point we take left and follow the wall over Slieve Curragh, past the Pot of Legawherry and a stiff wee climb onto Slieve Commedagh at 765 metres, the second highest in the Mournes. We drop down to the Donard Saddle and head along the Brandy Pad past the Castles of Commedagh. If we are on time we can take a look at another upcoming walk, the Devils Coachroad, then on towards the Hare's Gap and back down the Trassey Track. If we get a good day the views on this walk are spectacular.
Start time: 10.30am
Start time: 10.30am
sunday 15th February 2015
The walk this week is Slieve Binnian, a distance of approximately 11kms, starting at Carricklittle top car park where there is a charge of £3 per car, meaning you car and belongings are safe. We head up the laneway to the gate where we meet the Mourne wall. Following a newly revamped path just out from the wall we head for the top, a long pull up to a height of 747m. If the weather is kind the views into the Silent Valley are brilliant. Lunch at the top and then trek across Binnian top, past the back castles to the North Tor and down to the saddle, on past the Blue Lough, the Percy Bysshe, past Annalong Wood and rejoin where we started.
Start time: 10.45am
Start time: 10.45am
Sunday 8th February 2015
This weeks walk will be Round Seefin, Long Seefin, Rocky mountain and Annalong buttress dropping down to the Annalong river, following the river past the Hare's Castle to Dunnywater and back to the start. A distance of approximately 14kms, this takes us right into the heart of the Mourne Mountains and if visibility is good we will see a lot of the big mountains and great walks to come.
Start point: Waterworks gates on Head Road, Annalong at grid ref 358 223.
Start time: 10.30am
Start point: Waterworks gates on Head Road, Annalong at grid ref 358 223.
Start time: 10.30am
