Donard Forest Walk
Donard Forest Walk has the most spectacular viewpoints in County Down taking in areas such as Newcastle, Dundrum Bay, St John’s Point and to the north west Slieve Croob. The Glen River Bridge provides a picturesque viewpoint for the many cascades and waterfalls and was built by the Annesley family.
County Down
Distance 10.7 miles
OS Map Sheet 29
Terrain Difficult and steep walking
Nearest Town Newcastle
Route Shape Circular
Grid Reference J371302
Route Type Forest, Woodland
There are four way marked trails which follow a circular route returning to Donard Bridge with the exception of the Glen River Trail which travels up to the open mountain above the forest.
These walks are situated in a working forest environment and may be subject to diversion and closure from time to time.
Up to date information is available on the Forest Service web site.
Excellent views, river walk and old buidlings
From Donard car park at the south end of Newcastle proceed on foot to the forest
Translink – journeyplanner.translink.co.uk
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Walk Route
Donard Forest Walk
Great walk. We progressed up the side of the stream which was in full flow after heavy rain – really enjoyed the beautiful series of cascades. This is quite a rough path and also is steep in places. At the Ice House , we turned and initially walked back down the other side of the stream, then veered left ito join a gravel roadway for an easier descent. This section was a nice tranquil and easy walk though forest. We had been intending to do another of the Donard Forest walks, but as non locals could not find Donard bridge or any signage. We therefore decided to use the stream to keep our bearings – this turned out to be a lucky break as we so enjoyed the Glen section of the walk.