The Granite Trail

Did the Granite Trail at the weekend and it was brillient. We started at the harbour and went up the granite steps to the quarry, the views were amazing !! we then went across to the second quarry and down the Glen River track. It was steep going up the steps, but once we got up to the quarry, it was downhill all the way back. It was a fantastic walk, well worth doing.

Starts at the harbour, straight into a steep climb which goes on for maybe 3/4 mile. After crossing a stile, you swing to the right and the gradient lessens, taking you up to the main quarry, which seems to still be working. Great views along this upper section.
We kept on straight coming down into Donard Wood, joining the Glen River path, and down towards Donard Park. There’s an option to keep right at the last bridge, which will bring you round towards the harbour.
Round trip of maybe 3 miles, which took close on 2 hours. The first section will get heart & lungs going, but well worth it!

I'm not new to Newcastle, but this wander is new to me. Love, love, loved it. Took us on to the side of Thomas mountain, up to the quarry and into Donard forest. A beautiful day helped. Not hugely signposted do a little bit of attention required, but that's ok.

Extended the walk a little up to Drinahilly, and down the far side of the woods, lovely to be able to get back to town and see the route trace the tree line by eye.

Fair old hike from the harbour mind you!

The Granite trail starts just above the car park at Newcastle Harbour. A 1km uphill ascent starts the trail, Granite steps have been crafted to help divide the gradient but unfortunately erosion has left these too big to step up leaving the walking to look for different paths.

There are interesting artifacts along the way that help tell the story of how Granite was quarried and transported. It is truly mind blowing that large quantities of stone was moved in this manner.

Once you reach the gate at the top of the climb, a narrow track awaits and guides you t the main quarry, This has a beautiful waterfall and fantastic view point. Any effort to reach here is soon forgotten.

The wanderer has a choice now, you can return along the same route you ascended but I would recommend traveling on into Donard Wood and returning along the Glen river back to the sea. More images that will live with you for a long time.

Some maintenance work on the steps would have seen this being a 5 Star rating

The climb is quite steep however the view is fantastic. Well worth the effort and some interesting history and some good exhibits on the trail. Bring some water on a hot day.

A stunning walk all uphill but the view at the top is well worth it. Plenty of places to stop, with the sheep, for a sit down and a breather!The old quarry is magnificent and the views over Newcastle and the Dundrum are brilliant.

Whilst a hike up the hill had me breathless at times it was worth it for the stunning views I've Newcastle. It was so peaceful and calm, with only a few walkers passing by. Interesting remnants can be seen from the quarrying period. We walked back down though Donard woods, which in the heat provided some welcome shelter. If I lived in Newcastle I'd be up those hills a lot. A truly lovely place.

Beautiful walk, must for everyone from a large family to a single adventurer. View from the top is truly spectacular!

This walk starts off at Newcastle harbour. It's a fairly straight and somewhat strenuous track to the top along he old gurney track. This means it's quite a straight walk. Once at the top you can choose to carry on over the stile and visit Thomas's Quarry for some breathtaking views of Newcastle. There's also a waterfall here which in wet weather can become spectacular.

If you like you can take the trail back down through Donnard Forrest. Another great walk in the sunny weather but in rain it's a bit more arduous.

Fabulous wee walk and great views of Newcastle and the mournes . It's a bit of a climb but well worth it.