Slieve Bearnagh
About Slieve Bearnagh
Slieve Bearnagh is known for its distinctive granite tor summits and the Mourne Wall that passes through the col. The mountain offers dramatic rocky scrambling to the twin summits.
Height & Prominence of Slieve Bearnagh
Slieve Bearnagh stands at 739 metres (2424 feet) above sea level, according to Ordnance Survey data. Its topographic prominence is 329 metres, meaning it rises at least that far above the col connecting it to the nearest higher peak. Slieve Bearnagh is part of the Mourne Mountains. The OS grid reference is J310286, which you can use to locate the summit on any Ordnance Survey Explorer or Landranger map.
Slieve Bearnagh carries the classification of Marilyn.
Location & Nearest Towns
Slieve Bearnagh is located in Northern Ireland, Down, within Mourne Mountains AONB. It sits in the Mourne Mountains area. The nearest towns and villages include Silent Valley, Slieve Binnian, Slieve Donard, where you can find accommodation, pubs, and supplies before or after your walk.
For official access information and any seasonal restrictions, check the Mourne Mountains AONB authority.
Interesting Facts
- Has dramatic twin granite tor summits
- The Mourne Wall passes through its col
- Excellent scrambling on granite rock
- Part of the classic Mourne Wall walk
Safety Tips
Always check forecasts before setting out. Summit conditions differ dramatically from valley level.
Carry map, compass/GPS, water, food, first aid, whistle, torch, and waterproofs.
Tell someone your route and return time. Stick to marked paths. Be ready to turn back.
Ask for Police, then Mountain Rescue. Know your grid reference.
On the Mountain: Walking Slieve Bearnagh
Slieve Bearnagh is a moderate walk that rewards careful planning. The summit sits at 739m, where conditions can feel distinctly different from the valley — wind speeds are typically 30–50% stronger above 800m, and the temperature drops roughly 1°C for every 100m of ascent. In cloud, the cairn at the top can be hard to spot, so keep a map and compass to hand even on well-marked paths.
After your walk, the nearest village — Silent Valley — is a good place for a pint and a debrief. For detailed route descriptions and trip reports from other walkers, Walkhighlands NI is an excellent resource.
Nearby Dining
- Silent Valley tea room
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Slieve Bearnagh one of the best mountains to climb in the UK?
Yes, Slieve Bearnagh is considered one of the best mountains to climb in the UK thanks to its scenic routes, 739m elevation, and moderate difficulty level.
What difficulty level is Slieve Bearnagh?
Slieve Bearnagh has a difficulty rating of Moderate. Various routes are available for different experience levels.
When is the best time to climb Slieve Bearnagh?
The best season is Spring to Autumn. Summit temperatures are typically 5–10°C colder than the valley, and conditions can change rapidly.
Why Visit Slieve Bearnagh?
Slieve Bearnagh stands at 739m (2424ft) in Northern Ireland, Down. Classified as a Marilyn, it is a rewarding destination for hikers, climbers, and photographers.
Browse our UK mountains directory to discover more peaks, or see all mountains A–Z.
Nearby Peaks to Explore
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