Carn Hill

The walk up Carn Hill rewards you with views that stretch across three counties on a clear day. It's not the highest peak in the Mourne range, but that's partly what makes it good - less crowded than its taller neighbours, more manageable for a half-day outing.

From Newry, the approach is straightforward enough. The ascent itself is steady rather than brutal, though the final push onto the ridge gets steep. You'll cross moorland scattered with gorse and heather, picking your way over exposed granite where the path narrows. The trig point at the summit sits at 599 metres, and on decent weather you can see right across to Slieve Donard and beyond.

This works best for walkers after a proper hike without needing to commit to a full day in the mountains. History buffs might appreciate the old stone walls and ruins scattered about - echoes of medieval settlements and ancient trackways. Families with teenagers who can manage a couple of hours on uneven ground will find it satisfying. Young kids will struggle with the exposed sections.

There's no visitor centre or facilities at the summit, so bring water and wear proper boots. The weather can turn quickly up here, so don't underestimate it even though the height seems modest. If you're staying at Hilltop Hideaway nearby, this makes a cracking morning walk before heading back for lunch and that hot tub. Allow two to three hours return from the carpark.