Slieve Donard
About Slieve Donard
Slieve Donard is the highest peak in Northern Ireland and all of the island of Ireland's east coast, offering spectacular views from Dublin Bay to the Isle of Man on clear days.
Height & Prominence of Slieve Donard
Slieve Donard stands at 850 metres (2789 feet) above sea level, according to Ordnance Survey data. Its topographic prominence is 850 metres, meaning it rises at least that far above the col connecting it to the nearest higher peak. Slieve Donard is part of the Mourne Mountains. The OS grid reference is J357277, which you can use to locate the summit on any Ordnance Survey Explorer or Landranger map.
Slieve Donard carries the classification of Marilyn.
Location & Nearest Towns
Slieve Donard is located in Northern Ireland, Down, within Mourne Mountains AONB. It sits in the Mourne Mountains area. The nearest towns and villages include Newcastle (3 miles), Mourne Wall, Glen River, and others, 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
- Highest peak in Northern Ireland at 850 metres
- The Mourne Wall crosses the summit, built entirely by hand
- On a clear day you can see Scotland, the Isle of Man, and Dublin Bay
- Named after Saint Domangard who built an early Christian oratory on the summit
- Part of the Mourne Mountains Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
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 Donard
Slieve Donard is a moderate walk that rewards careful planning. The summit sits at 850m, 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 — Newcastle (3 miles) — 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
- The Anchor Bar, Newcastle
- Donard Hotel
- Strand Restaurant
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Slieve Donard one of the best mountains to climb in the UK?
Yes, Slieve Donard is considered one of the best mountains to climb in the UK thanks to its scenic routes, 850m elevation, and moderate difficulty level.
What difficulty level is Slieve Donard?
Slieve Donard has a difficulty rating of Moderate. Various routes are available for different experience levels.
When is the best time to climb Slieve Donard?
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 Donard?
Slieve Donard stands at 850m (2789ft) 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
Looking beyond Slieve Donard? These peaks are close by and worth exploring.
