The best walks and hikes around Murlough Upper

Yes, the area offers several family-friendly options. The Murlough National Nature Reserve has well-maintained paths and boardwalks that are ideal for shorter, easier walks. The terrain is mostly flat, taking you through woodlands and sand dunes, which is great for children.

Dogs are welcome in many areas, but there are restrictions. In the Murlough National Nature Reserve, dogs must be kept on a short lead at all times to protect the fragile dune ecosystem and wildlife, including ground-nesting birds and grazing livestock. Always check local signage for specific rules.

The region is excellent for circular hikes. For a moderate loop with varied scenery, the Murlough Nature Reserve loop from Twelve Arches Bridge — Mourne is a great choice. It combines paths through the dunes with a stretch along the beach, offering constant views of the Mourne Mountains.

The main access point is the National Trust car park located just off the A2 road between Newcastle and Dundrum. This is the starting point for several marked trails, including the Murlough Nature Trail. It's a pay-and-display car park, and it can get busy, especially on weekends and during summer.

Yes, the Murlough Upper area is accessible by public transport. Bus services run along the A2 coastal road, with stops near the entrance to the Murlough National Nature Reserve. This makes it possible to start your hike without a car, especially if you're coming from nearby towns like Newcastle.

Definitely. For a strenuous mountain hike, you can tackle the Newcastle & Slieve Commedagh loop — Mourne. This route takes you from the forest into the high Mournes, offering a significant climb and rewarding panoramic views. The terrain is rugged and requires good fitness and navigation skills.

The terrain is very diverse. Within the Murlough National Nature Reserve, you'll find sandy paths, wooden boardwalks, and pebble beaches. As you head towards the Mourne Mountains, the trails become steeper and more rugged, with forest tracks giving way to open mountainside, boggy sections, and rocky paths.

Yes, for a route featuring waterfalls, consider the Donard Park Waterfall – Shimna River Waterfall loop from Newcastle. This trail follows the Glen River up through Donard Forest, passing several cascades and waterfalls before opening up to views of the higher mountains.

The trails are very highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning scenery, especially the contrast between the golden beaches of Dundrum Bay and the dramatic backdrop of the Mourne Mountains. The well-maintained paths within the nature reserve are also a common highlight.

There are over 170 hiking routes to explore around Murlough Upper on komoot. These range from easy, flat walks through the nature reserve to difficult mountain ascents in the Mournes, providing options for all fitness levels and preferences.

No, they are in different locations. Murlough National Nature Reserve, the focus of this guide, is in County Down, near Newcastle and Dundrum. Murlough Bay and Fair Head are located much further north in County Antrim. Both offer spectacular coastal scenery, but they are distinct destinations.

For a long coastal and dune walk, the Newcastle & Murlough Nature Reserve loop — Mourne is an excellent choice. At over 13 miles (21 km), this route covers a significant portion of the coastline and nature reserve, offering an immersive experience of the landscape.