Carlingford - Loop 1A- Commons Loop

This short but sharply climbing loop begins in the medieval heart of Carlingford, setting off from the Town Gate and passing the old Drinking Fountain before heading up onto the commons above the village. In just over three kilometres you gain nearly 200 metres, so the effort is concentrated but the rewards come quickly, with views opening out over Carlingford Lough and across to the Mourne Mountains almost as soon as you leave the streets behind.

The route traces part of the Liberties of Carlingford, the old lands that once belonged to the town, and passes the Carlingford Ogham Stone, a reminder of the area's deep early-Irish heritage. Underfoot you move from lanes and tracks onto rougher upland ground before looping back down towards the village.

Back in Carlingford it is worth pausing at Carlingford Castle, perched above the harbour, and exploring the tangle of narrow medieval lanes. As a compact circular walk with a genuine hill feel, Loop 1A is a good introduction to the Cooley Peninsula before tackling anything longer.