Commons Loop

Park in Carlingford and head up the road beside Savage's shop. The first few hundred metres, as you leave the village, are the steepest part of this trail. The path leads between stone walled fields up onto the hillside above Carlingford. It's single file at this point but once you pass over the stile it opens out and there are beautiful views back over Carlingford to the Mournes.



At the intersection with the Tain trail this loop turns left to head back down to Carlingford. You can also turn right onto the Tain trail and follow it up the ridge for 1km to see over the saddle into Dundalk. This is a gently sloping section so well worth the limited effort needed for a great view. Retrace your steps back to the Commons loop and follow it back down into Carlingford.



A nice diversion at the end is to walk through the ruins of the monastery (on your right as you come down into the village) and over the stile at the back of the old church. Turn left and follow the path onto the road, follow it down the hill and around to the left. This brings you under the tholsel gate and back to the car park via the old centre of the village.



The Commons Loop is an easy 4km walk or trail run (1 hour, including stops to admire the scenery). Adding the spur to the top of the ridge brings it to 6.5km in total (1.5-2hrs). Very suitable for children or walkers who want a short loop with great views before a nice meal in Carlingford.