The Slieve Binnian and North Tor Circular is a magnificent half-day circular trail in the Mourne Mountains near Newcastle. This explore offers a classic mountain experience, featuring a climb to the Slieve Binnian Summit Tor and North Tor while following the iconic Mourne Wall.
I chose this trail for its challenging ascent, dramatic rocky terrain, and unparalleled fantastic views of the Silent Valley Reservoir and Ben Crom.
Key Takeaways
- My Core Activity: A challenging mountain hike and scramble up to two distinctive Tors.
- The Route’s Distance: A substantial circular trail, estimated to be around 5–6 miles.
- Key Landmarks: Slieve Binnian Summit Tor, North Tor, Mourne Wall, Silent Valley Reservoir, Blue Lough, and Percey Bysshe cave (optional detour).
- The Path’s Surface: Rocky and uneven underfoot, following the wall and mountain path. Paths can become muddy and slippery on wet days.
- My Rating: Strenuous, due to the steep ascent and challenging rocky terrain.
The Full Loop: My Ascent via the Mourne Wall
My hike on the Slieve Binnian and North Tor Circular began at the Carrick Little car park. From there, I followed the road north and crossed the stile at the gate. This walk offers a relentless but rewarding challenge.
The route is easily identifiable: at the junction, you continue to follow the Mourne Wall to your left. The wall acts as a guide, leading you on a steep ascent up to the summit of Slieve Binnian.
The route advice is crucial here: stay to the right-hand side of the wall, as this is the easiest approach to the summit. This ascent provides enough incline to get you a good leg burn by the end of the journey. This intense, rocky climbing experience contrasts with the easier, well-maintained paths of the Croxteth Park Circular.
[Internlink Suggestion: This demanding, rockyterrain and steep ascentis a stark contrast to the easy-going routeand mainly tarmac surfaceof the Croxteth Park Circular.]
Once I reached the top, I took time to walk around the top to get the best views from the Summit Tor. These include excellent views of the Annalong Wood and valley, as well as the fantastic views of the Silent Valley Reservoir and Ben Crom.
Leaving the summit, I followed the path north towards the North Tor. The trail then skims the North Top and continues down to the left of the North Tor to the saddle between Slieve Binnian and Slievelamagan.
At the saddle, I skipped the path up Slievelamagan and took the path to my right, which led down to Blue Lough. This is a beautiful place to take a break by the water’s edge.
A little further down the slope, I passed a narrow grassy track leading to Percey Bysshe cave, a hidden cave in the outcrop. This spot, also called Scotch Rock, is popular for rock climbing.
Finally, I continue[d] down the main path along the edge of Annalong Wood to return to the car park. I completed this rewarding half-day circular trail (estimated at 5.5 miles) in approximately 4 hours.
| Trail Overview | Details from My Trip |
| Distance Covered | ~5.5 miles (Full circular trail) |
| Surface | Rocky and uneven underfoot. Potential for muddy and slippery paths on wet days. |
| Climbing | Steep ascent up Slieve Binnian (Good leg burn). |
| My Time | 4 hours (Steady climb and descent with break). |
| My Rating | Strenuous, due to elevation and technical, rocky terrain. |
| Features | Mourne Wall ascent, Silent Valley Reservoir views, Blue Lough, and North Tor. |
Getting There: Transport and Timing
Access requires reaching the area near Newcastle and locating the specific trailhead. I chose to attempt this trail on a calm, clear, and dry day for the best conditions and safest experience.
Driving and Parking Details
Driving is the most practical way to reach the remote mountain trailhead.
- Parking Situation: Start is at the Carrick Little car park.
Public Transport Details
- Bus/Coach: Public transport to the Newcastle area is available, but further local transport may be needed to reach the specific Carrick Little car park.
Comparative Travel Table
| Transport Method | My Estimated Time from Belfast City Centre | My Cost | Notes |
| Car (Driving) | 1 hour 20 minutes | Fuel + Parking Fee | Most direct to the start of the circular trail. |
| Bus/Coach | 2 hours 30 minutes | Standard Fare | Suitable for reaching the general Newcastle area. |
Driving to the Carrick Little car park is highly recommended for tackling this mountain route.
Beyond the Path: Geology, Refreshments, and Safety
The route’s geology is dramatic, and the local facilities provide a welcome end point for the strenuous hike.
Terrain and Gear Knowledge
- Path Quality: The terrain is rocky and uneven underfoot, requiring focus. The paths can become muddy and slippery on wet days or after rain.
- Footwear: Crucially, make sure to bring suitable, sturdy footwear. Appropriate footwear is advised.
- Clothing: Warm layers are advised, as it can get cold and windy at the top of the exposed tors.
Landmarks and Features
- Tors: The route features the dramatic Slieve Binnian Summit Tor and North Tor—distinctive granite rock outcrops.
- Percey Bysshe Cave: The optional detour to Percey Bysshe cave (also called Scotch Rock) is a fun discovery point, especially for those interested in rock climbing.
- Water: Blue Lough provides a gorgeous, calm spot to take a break by the water’s edge.
Refreshments and Pets
- Cafe: There is a cafe at the foot of Slieve Binnian near the car park, which makes for an excellent stop for refreshments before or afterwards.
- Dogs: Dogs are welcome on this route, but keep in mind that there are some steep and rocky sections, so make sure they are capable of the journey.
Quiet Corners: Insider Tips for a Better Visit
My explore of the Slieve Binnian and North Tor Circular yielded essential details for tackling its steep and rocky challenges.
- CRUCIAL Timing Tip: This trail is best attempted on a calm, clear, and dry day. The views are better, and the rocky and uneven underfoot terrain is safer.
- Ascent Route: Follow the Mourne Wall and specifically stay to the right-hand side of the wall for the easiest approach to the summit.
- Gear: Prioritize safety gear—suitable, sturdy footwear and warm layers for the exposed summit where it can get cold and windy at the top.
- Break Spot: Plan a stop at Blue Lough to take a break by the water’s edge before continuing the descent.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the main landmarks and views along the circular trail?
The trail follows the Mourne Wall up to the Slieve Binnian Summit Tor and North Tor. It features excellent views of the Annalong Wood and valley and fantastic views of the Silent Valley Reservoir and Ben Crom.
How difficult is the terrain and what footwear is recommended?
The terrain is rocky and uneven underfoot and features a steep ascent up Slieve Binnian, which will get you a good leg burn. Suitable, sturdy footwear is essential, as the paths can become muddy and slippery on wet days.
What should I do after reaching the summit of Slieve Binnian?
Once at the top, you should walk around the top to get the best views, then leave the summit by following the path north towards the North Tor. You will then descend to the saddle and continue towards Blue Lough.
Is there an opportunity to take a break or get refreshments along the route?
Yes, Blue Lough is a beautiful place to take a break by the water’s edge midway through the descent. Additionally, there is a cafe at the foot of Slieve Binnian near the car park, which makes for an excellent stop for refreshments before or afterwards.
What safety precautions should be taken regarding weather and dogs?
The trail is best attempted on a calm, clear, and dry day. You should bring warm layers as it can get cold and windy at the top. Dogs are welcome, but be mindful of the steep and rocky sections to ensure they can manage the journey.
Banking the Memories: Why I’ll Return
The Slieve Binnian and North Tor Circular was a challenging but incredibly rewarding half-day circular trail. The ascent alongside the Mourne Wall and the sight of the Summit Tor were memorable. The fantastic views of the Silent Valley Reservoir and the beautiful, hidden stop at Blue Lough were truly special. I will definitely return to this part of the Mourne Mountains to explore the area again, perhaps attempting the climb of Slievelamagan next time.
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