Clermont

The walk up Clermont isn't long, but it's steep enough to catch you off guard. This modest peak sits just outside Newry, commanding views across County Down that stretch toward the Mourne Mountains on clear days - proper worth the huffing and puffing if you time it right.

You're looking at roughly 45 minutes to the summit from the car park, depending on your pace and how often you stop to catch your breath. The final push is the killer, but the cairn at the top feels earned rather than just stumbled upon. On a decent afternoon the panorama justifies the effort: rolling farmland below, those dramatic mountains in the distance, and on lucky days you can trace the line toward Carlingford Lough.

Families with reasonably fit kids will manage fine here. It's not a slog like some Northern Irish peaks, though you'll want proper footwear - the path gets boggy after rain. Solo walkers often tackle this as a quick workout rather than a full day's commitment.

If you're based at Kilbroney Caravan Park nearby, Clermont makes a cracking morning outing before heading elsewhere. The beauty of it is you won't be jostling with crowds even during school holidays. There's no visitor centre or facilities, so bring water. Admission's free and there aren't formal opening hours - just rock up when conditions suit you. Best tackled when you've got decent visibility though, otherwise you're just climbing through murk.