The Foxes Rock

The Foxes Rock rises abruptly from the moorland south of Newry, a craggy limestone outcrop that demands you scramble up to see what's worth seeing. It's not a casual stroll - the approach is steep and the rocks themselves are proper sharp underfoot, so proper footwear matters. On a clear day the views across County Down towards the Mourne Mountains are genuinely good. You can pick out Slieve Donard in the distance if you know where to look.

What appeals here depends entirely on what you're after. Walkers love it because the ascent is brief enough to feel purposeful without eating up your whole afternoon. History types might find the Bronze Age fort remains interesting, though there's precious little interpretation on site so you'd need to know what you're looking for. Kids will either find the scramble brilliant fun or too exposed and fiddly - depends on their nerve and your patience, really.

Allow about forty minutes return if you're steady on your feet, longer if you're being cautious. There's no entry fee and no facilities at the rock itself. The ground can be boggy after rain, so timing matters.

If you're staying at Kilbroney Caravan Park nearby, it's a straightforward drive to the trailhead. The peak works well as a half-morning adventure between other Mourne activities - something to tick off rather than a full day's entertainment. Worth the detour if you're in the area, but don't rearrange your schedule to get here.