Slieve Loughshannagh

Standing at 445 metres, this granite dome rewards walkers with proper views across the Mourne Mountains without the crowds that flock to Slieve Donard. The walk from Newcastle takes about two hours each way, following well-marked paths through heather and gorse before the final rocky scramble to the summit.

Experienced hikers will appreciate the relatively straightforward ascent, though the final approach does require a bit of scrambling over granite slabs. Families with older children (say, ten and up) should manage fine, but toddlers will struggle with the terrain.

From the top, you'll get cracking views north towards Belfast Lough on clear days, with the Irish Sea stretching endlessly eastward. The summit cairn makes a decent lunch spot, though bring layers - the wind can be fierce even on mild days below.

For those staying at nearby sites like Tollymore Campsite or the various glamping spots around Newcastle, this makes an excellent day out. Allow four to five hours total including stops, and check the weather - mist can roll in quickly and visibility drops to nothing. The mountain is free to climb year-round, though winter conditions require proper gear and experience.