HOW TO GET TO FLAGSTAFF VIEWPOINT: ROUTES, DIRECTIONS AND THE BEST VIEWS IN NEWRY

A COFFEE STOP START IN NEWRY

A good day always starts with a great coffee. Before heading to Flagstaff Viewpoint, the Mourne Peak team stopped at Yew Coffee on Warrenpoint Road in Newry, picking up a coffee and caramel square. Bobby, our dog, came along for the adventure too!

The staff were friendly, the coffee lovely and it was an easy way to start the morning. Yew Coffee is dog and family-friendly, making it a handy stop whether you're bringing the kids or a four-legged friend.

We left Yew Coffee between 9:00 and 9:15 am and arrived at the viewpoint around 9:30 am, showing just how close it is to Newry.

Check Yew Coffee on Instagram for its latest updates and opening times before visiting.

GUIDE TO FLAGSTAFF VIEWPOINT

Located on Fathom Hill, Newry, Co. Down, Flagstaff Viewpoint offers spectacular panoramic views across Carlingford Lough towards the Cooley Peninsula, with the Mourne Mountains rising beyond.

Whether you are planning a scenic drive, capturing landscape photography or exploring the surrounding countrysise, it's a rewarding stop without committing to a full-day hike.

This location is an ideal starting point for discovering the landscapes on both sides of the lough, from the Ring of Gullion and the Mourne Mountains to the villages and walking routes around Carlingford Lough.

In this guide, you will find key directions to Flagstaff Viewpoint from Newry, Belfast and Dublin, practical information on parking, facilities, the best time to visit and nearby places worth exploring. There's also a quick guide at the end to help plan your trip.

FROM DUBLIN

Travel northwards on the N1 motorway towards the border and take the exit towards Jonesborough. Continue via Church Hill (B113) to the Dromad roundabout, take the first left at the roundabout, drive past the Carrickdale Hotel and turn right onto Edentober Road. Continue towards Ferryhill Road and follow the signs for Flagstaff Viewpoint.

All route descriptions are a guide, not live navigation. Check your route before travelling, as conditions and recommended directions can change.

We recommend approaching via the Old Dublin Road (R132), Edentober Road and Ferryhill Road.

Starting at Yew Coffee on the Warrenpoint Road:

1. Turn left and head towards Newry via River Street.

2. Turn left onto William Street and continue towards Bridge Street, passing the Buttercrane and The Quays shopping centres. If you're starting from either shopping centre, you can join the route from here.

3. Continue towards the Dublin Road and A1 motorway. As you approach the top of Dublin Road, you'll see signs for the route near Cloughoge Chapel. Continue to the roundabout rather than following the signs.

4. Turn left onto the A1 motorway and take the slip road towards Old Dublin Road (R132).

5. Continue towards Killeen and the Carrickdale Hotel. Near Morgan Fuels, turn left onto Edentober Road, then continue towards Ferryhill Road and Flagstaff Viewpoint.

Navigation tip: Car GPS systems can sometimes direct drivers onto Upper Fathom Road before the viewpoint entrance. Look out for the Flagstaff Viewpoint sign as you approach and check your route before setting off.

FROM BELFAST

Travel southwards on the A1 motorway towards Newry. Follow your navigation towards the Old Dublin Road (R132), then continue towards Killeen and the Carrickdale Hotel. Near Morgan Fuels, take Edentober Road towards Ferryhill Road and follow the signs for Flagstaff Viewpoint.

ARRIVING AT FLAGSTAFF VIEWPOINT

The view is epic! Carlingford Lough stretches across the landscape, the Cooley Peninsula rises on the opposite shore and the Mourne Mountains create a striking backdrop beyond.

During our visit, the car park was quiet, giving us time to step out, take photographs and appreciate the scenery at our own pace. Whether you're visiting with a camera or simply looking for a peaceful stop on a scenic drive, it's worth allowing time to take it all in.

At Mourne Peak, we captured the landscape through photographs and drone footage, revealing the coastline and surrounding hills from different perspectives. You can check out the drone footage captured from the day on our socials page here.

WHAT CAN YOU SEE FROM FLAGSTAFF VIEWPOINT?

The panorama view brings together several of the area's best-known natural and historic landmarks. Across Carlingford Lough, the Cooley Peninsula rises towards Slieve Foye. On the County Down side, Slieve Martin stands above the hills around Rostrevor, while Narrow Water Keep adds a historic landmark near the mouth of the lough.

The view changes with the weather and light. On clear days, the mountain outlines stand out sharply; when clouds gather around the peaks, the landscape takes on a more dramatic character.

FLAGSTAFF VIEWPOINT PARKING AND FACILITIES

Flagstaff Viewpoint has a dedicated car park close to the views across Carlingford Lough. During previous visits, we've seen around ten cars at most, although it can get busier depending on the season, weather and day of the week.

Benches provide somewhere to sit and enjoy the surroundings and bins are available on site. There are also no public toilets or café facilities at the viewpoint, so plan ahead before attending.

PLAN YOUR VISIT TO FLAGSTAFF VIEWPOINT

For a straightforward visit, stop for a coffee in Newry, check your route before setting off and bring a water-resistant layer. Allow time to enjoy the views, and consider adding one or two nearby destinations to make more of your day.

For more ideas, visit Mourne Gullion Strangford and plan your next adventure.

Take in the views, explore a little further and discover more of the landscapes around Carlingford Lough.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT FLAGSTAFF VIEWPOINT?

Early morning is great to visit for photography, particularly when the light begins to spread across Carlingford Lough. Winter mornings can be especially atmospheric, with low sunlight illuminating the water, coastline and surrounding mountains.

Sunset offers a different experience, although the sun sets behind the viewpoint rather than over the lough. For sunset views across Carlingford Lough, Kodak Corner in Rostrevor, Co. Down is a place to consider.

During different visits, we've captured the viewpoint in different conditions, from bright morning sunshine to golden hour. The Mourne Peak Explorer Jacket came in handy when rain arrived, while the Heather Summit Hoodie was perfect for enjoying the warmer evening light.

Weather around the lough can change quickly, so check the forecast, bring a suitable layer and allow time to enjoy the changing light.

LOCAL WALKS AND HISTORY AROUND FLAGSTAFF VIEWPOINT

You don't need to plan a full-day hike to explore the area. There are landmarks and walking routes nearby that offer another way to experience the landscape.

Clontygora Court Tomb

Known as the King's Ring, Clontygora Court Tomb is a prehistoric burial monument dating back to around 3500 BC. It's an interesting stop for anyone keen to discover the area's history alongside its scenery.

Read more in the official visitor information. Check the route and conditions before setting off, as the walk includes rural roads/ paths.

The Lock-keeper's Pad

For a longer walk, the Lock-keeper's Pad connects Victoria Locks with the Flagstaff. The route combines countryside, woodland and local industrial heritage.

Check the latest route information and conditions before setting off.

PLACES TO EXPLORE AROUND FLAGSTAFF VIEWPOINT

Flagstaff Viewpoint makes a great stop as part of a wider day exploring the borderlands. Here are a few nearby destinations on both sides of the lough.

EXPLORE THE NORTHERN SIDE OF FLAGSTAFF VIEWPOINT

SLIEVE GULLION AND THE RING OF GULLION

Approx. 7 miles | 15–20 minutes by car

Visit Slieve Gullion Forest Park for woodland trails, the Giant's Lair and adventure playpark or take the scenic mountain drive for views across the Ring of Gullion. Entry to the Forest Park costs £5 per car, unless you have a local pass. Check current access arrangements before visiting.

WARRENPOINT

Approx. 15 miles | 30–35 minutes by car

Enjoy the waterfront promenade, stop at a local café or restaurant, and take in views across Carlingford Lough towards the Cooley Peninsula and the Mourne Mountains.

ROSTREVOR, SLIEVE MARTIN AND KODAK CORNER

Approx. 16 miles | 30–35 minutes by car

Explore the woodland trails of Kilbroney Forest Park, walk in the hills around Slieve Martin, or visit Kodak Corner for views across Carlingford Lough, particularly around sunset time.

GREENCASTLE AND CRANFIELD BEACH

Approx. 25 miles | 40–45 minutes by car

Discover the historic ruins of Greencastle, overlooking the lough, then head to Cranfield Beach for a seaside stroll. Continue towards Kilkeel to explore more of the Mourne coastline and harbour.

THE MOURNE COASTAL ROUTE TO NEWCASTLE

Approx. 25 miles | 60–90 minutes by car

Follow the County Down coast towards Newcastle, where the Mourne Mountains meet the sea. Enjoy the coastal scenery along the way, explore Newcastle's seafront, nearby Tollymore Forest Park, Tyrella Beach, St. John's Lighthouse and Murlough Beach.

THE MOURNE MOUNTAINS

Approx. 20 - 35 miles | 40–100+ minutes by car (Route dependent)

Accessible via the coastal route to Newcastle or inland through Hilltown and Spelga Dam.

Explore the spectacular Mourne Mountains, home to some of Northern Ireland's most recognisable peaks. Whether you're planning a mountain hike, a scenic drive or simply want to experience the landscape, the Mournes offers plenty to discover.

EXPLORE THE SOUTHERN SIDE OF FLAGSTAFF VIEWPOINT

OMEATH

Approx. 4 miles | 10–15 minutes by car

This village on the southern shore of Carlingford Lough offers peaceful waterfront views towards the Cooley Peninsula. It's a lovely stop for a stroll, especially if you're exploring the Carlingford Lough Greenway on foot or by bike.

CARLINGFORD AND SLIEVE FOYE

Approx. 10 miles | 20–25 minutes by car

Explore the medieval streets of Carlingford, visit King John's Castle or stop at a local café. For walkers, the surrounding Cooley Mountains offer routes with views across the countryside and lough.

GREENORE

Approx. 12 miles | 25–30 minutes by car

Visit Greenore to experience another stretch of the Carlingford Lough coastline. Its harbour/ coastal setting make it a worthwhile stop when exploring the Cooley Peninsula.

LOOKING AHEAD: NEW BRIDGE

The flagstaff occupies a striking position overlooking Carlingford Lough, between the Mourne Mountains to the north and the Cooley Peninsula to the south.

The Carlingford Lough Greenway already offers a fantastic way to explore the southern shore on foot or bike, connecting communities and scenic spots around the lough. The planned Narrow Water Bridge, linking the Warrenpoint area with Omeath, could further improve connections between the northern and southern shores when it opens.

For visitors, these routes offer exciting opportunities to explore more of the area in one trip. Combine Warrenpoint, Rostrevor and the Mourne Mountains with Omeath, Carlingford and the Cooley Peninsula, discovering coastal paths, historic villages and mountain scenery along the way.

The planned bridge is designed to accommodate vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians. Alongside the Carlingford Lough Greenway, it represents an exciting step towards making this special corner of the borderlands easier to explore.

ENJOYED THIS STORY? JOIN THE PEAK COMMUNITY.

If you've enjoyed exploring Flagstaff Viewpoint with us and seeing the views across Carlingford Lough, join the Peak Community for more stories from our local landscapes, early access to new series, special subscriber offers and a look at what's next for Mourne Peak.

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FLAGSTAFF VIEWPOINT — QUICK GUIDE FROM MOURNE PEAK

ABOUT MOURNE PEAK

Mourne Peak is an independent clothing brand rooted in Mayobridge, Co. Down, inspired by the landscapes, trails and communities of the Mournes and the surrounding area.

Places like Carlingford Lough, the Cooley Peninsula, Slieve Martin, the Cloughmore Stone and Fiddlers Green, help shape our brand and the colours used across our collections. Our Panorama graphic t-shirt is available in Carlingford Lough and Cooley Blue colours and one example of how the landscapes around home find their way to inspire our designs.

Through our clothing, photography and Peak Stories, we share the places we explore and encourage others to get outside and discover them for themselves. For us, Mourne Peak is about celebrating where we're from, supporting our local community and bringing people together through a shared love of the outdoors.

Born in the Mournes. Made for Everywhere.

THE BEST ROUTE TO FLAGSTAFF VIEWPOINT

FROM NEWRY

There is a signposted route from Newry towards Flagstaff Viewpoint near Cloughoge Chapel but we recommend avoiding it if you're unfamiliar with the roads. It is narrow, winding and rough in places, with potholes and limited opportunities to pass other vehicles.

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