Knockan
Good walks are even better shared.
NJ3546 : Hill of Towie Wind Farm
Anne Burgess Photo source
Explore routes near Knockan
Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.
Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
Knockan Access Route
A well-trodden path that winds gently up from the parking area to the summit. Perfect for families and beginners.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Photo Gallery
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NJ3546 : Hill of Towie Wind Farm
Anne Burgess
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NJ3546 : Knockan Wind Farm
Anne Burgess
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NJ3546 : Hill of Towie Wind Farm
Anne Burgess
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NJ3546 : Summit area of Knockan
Trevor Littlewood
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NJ3546 : Summit of Knockan
Colin Kinnear
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
372m
1,220 ft
Prominence
179m
Coordinates
57.5039, -3.0847
NJ351464
OS Map
28
Explorer: 424S
At the Summit
The summit features a modest cairn and a delightful panoramic view point that gives a sense of standing on top of the world - or at least a good bit of it!
Terrain & Geology
Knockan is primarily composed of limestone and dolostone, formed during the Silurian period. The area features interesting karst formations and unique cave systems, making it a geologist's delight.
Views & Scenery
On a clear day, you can see the Mourne Mountains to the east and the coastline of the Irish Sea stretching out to the horizon.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name Knockan derives from the Irish 'Cnocan’, meaning 'little hill', which is a rather modest self-description for such a charming summit!
Historical Significance
The area has historical significance due to its ancient stone structures and connection to local folklore.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
A small car park located at the base of the hill, accessible from the A24. It can fill up quickly on weekends, so early birds catch the worm - or, in this case, the parking spot!
Public Transport
Limited public transport options exist; local buses may drop you off several kilometers away. Better to arrange a lift or bring your own wheels.
Nearby Facilities
Nearby Castlewellan offers cafes, public toilets, and options for overnight stays if you're planning to make a weekend of your adventure.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Weather can be changeable; prepare for wind and rain. Slippery rocks in wet conditions can pose a risk.
General Safety Tips
- Check weather conditions before setting out
- Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
- Let someone know your planned route
- Take a map, compass, and GPS device
- Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch
Hills
Some common questions about the hills answered
Are there group walks up Knockan?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Knockan through the maps
Are there other walkers around Knockan?
Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Knockan search or of course create your own walk for Knockan
Can I organise a walk to Knockan?
Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.
If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Knockan.
How do I find a walk up this hill?
There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.
Can I suggest a new route up Knockan?
Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.
Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Knockan here
The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?
We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible
Community Discussion
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Location
View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.
Grid reference: NJ351464
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
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