Northern Ireland

Ulster Way walk around Ring of Gullion 'impassable' after falling into disrepair

Completing section 3 and 4 of the Ulster Way around Ring of Gulllion `is not possible because it has come into so much disrepair'
Completing section 3 and 4 of the Ulster Way around Ring of Gulllion `is not possible because it has come into so much disrepair' Completing section 3 and 4 of the Ulster Way around Ring of Gulllion `is not possible because it has come into so much disrepair'

ONE of the most scenic country walks in Ireland has become impassable after falling into disrepair.

Co Armagh's Ring of Gullion - a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - voted one of the Top 100 Geosites of UK and Ireland, is part of the popular Ulster Way.

The circular route follows off-road trails, quiet country lanes and forest tracks from Newry around the volcanic landscape of the Ring of Gullion, taking in ancient monuments and quiet villages can be discovered.

It was the first ring dyke in the world to be geologically mapped, with the ring made up of of low, rugged hills forming a `rampart' around the heather-clad Slieve Gullion mountain.

The final section leads through the grounds of Derrymore House near Bessbrook before reaching Newry

However, walkers can no longer complete the 36 mile route as listed on Walk NI because the trail is blocked by significant overgrowth of gorse (whin).

Maura Conlon said she was dismayed to set off on the walk only to find her way blocked.

"The Ring of Gullion walk is part of the Ulster Way and marketed as one of the great walks in Northern Ireland for its geographical and historical significance.

"I attempted to complete section 3 and 4 and discovered that it is not possible because it has come into so much disrepair.

"The views are stunning but the walk is not accessible.

"Paths were completely covered in whin to the point that you could not continue to walk this route. One section goes along the Longfield road which I would consider dangerous to walk.

"I think it would be a travesty if people were to travel to Northern Ireland with the expectation of completing this way and not be able to.

"How many of our other walks are in similar disrepair? "

A Department of Agriculture Environment and Rural Affairs spokeswoman said most of the Ulster Way is managed and maintained by district councils, saying Newry Mourne and Down council may have "further information about the specific sections".

"Many walking routes in Northern Ireland are based on voluntary access agreements established between a council and a landowner.

"Periodically the routes are therefore altered by negotiation. Occasionally councils and other bodies seek to purchase land where this is necessary.

"The whole of the Ulster Way and the Way-marked-ways are not off-road.

"Councils work with interested landowners to develop additional off-road sections across Northern Ireland when this opportunity arises.

"Walkni.com provides route descriptions of the Ulster Way and its sections to help walkers decide which sections may be suitable for their needs: https://walkni.com/ulsterway/ and https://walkni.com/walks/ring-of-gullion-way/"

He added the department has "a number of grant programmes" where councils and voluntary groups can apply with "proposals to enhance sections of off-road walking routes and the further development of these".