Ben Crom

Ben Crom is a shapely mini-mountain, a bristling curve of granite above the reservoir of the same name. It rises right in the heart of the Mourne Mountains, surrounded by the range’s grander peaks. This superb situation gives it a unique panorama from a relatively modest perch.

That’s not to say Ben Crom is not grand in itself. It rises to 1,726 feet (526 m) and is a conspicuous, impressive sight above Ben Crom Reservoir. Its gully-riven eastern flanks fall steeply to the waters below in a scene reminiscent of the Wasdale Screes in the English Lake District. This is seen beautifully from the neighbouring summit of Slieve Lamagan on the opposite side of the reservoir.

A craggy, granite fortress in the heart of the beautiful Mourne Mountains

Ben Crom’s position in the very centre of the range makes a number of great linkups possible. Paths radiate out from the southern head of the reservoir like the spokes of a wheel, heading for the Mourne’s most prized tops. Major summits like Slieve Binnian and Slieve Bearnagh are within easy striking distance, while Northern Ireland’s highest mountains, Slieve Donard and Slieve Commedagh are also reachable on a longer adventure.

Its location also means the approaches to Ben Crom are quite long, as you have to delve into the midst of the Mourne’s to get at it. The easiest approach is through the Silent Valley, which has parking, a café and facilities at its southern access point. There are a few accommodation options to the south around the small town of Kilkeel, while there are more options in Newcastle to the north.