Donard Park.

Before your visit

Start

Use Donard Park car park at the southern end of Newcastle beside the Glen River. The park is reachable on foot from town and is the starting area for the Glen River ascent.

Distance

A visit to the park does not require a summit climb. For a measured mountain outing, use the separate Slieve Donard route and plan its full return distance.

Terrain and access

Parkland and the forest approach give way to much rougher mountain ground if you continue uphill. Accessible parking and an accessible toilet are listed at the park; they do not establish step-free access along the Glen River ascent.

Dogs

Check the park’s current signs for dog restrictions and keep your dog under control. Follow the Forest Service lead rules where the outing enters public forest.

Toilets

The visitor listing identifies an accessible toilet at Donard Park. Use the council’s current seasonal toilet information before relying on it being open.

Refreshments

Plan a food stop in nearby Newcastle or bring a picnic; this guide does not promise a café inside the park.

Checked 9 October 2026. Official tourism: Donard Park · Forest Service: walking in forests · Council: public toilets

For current opening, charges and access, check the operator before travelling. Bring what you need rather than relying on refreshments being open.