Silent Valley Reservoir Walk

Route Description for Silent Valley Reservoir Walk

While there isn’t anything overly negative that can be said about the Silent BValley Reservoir Walk, you should take note of the fact that you will need to pay an entry fee of £4.50 per vehicle to enter the park. Additionally, some sections along the trail can become a bit boggy, so be sure to wear good walking footwear to remain comfortable on your adventure.

Featuring a charming forest atmosphere, lovely setting along the Kilkeel River, and stunning views across the Silent Valley Reservoir towards the imposing Mourne Mountains, this really is a spectacular walk that you won’t want to pass up on. Terrain here is easy-going enough that the entire family will be able to get out and enjoy a fun day on the trails, and the Silent Valley Cafe along the route offers a great place to pop in for some refreshments near the end of your walk. What a wonderful way to spend a fun afternoon on the weekend!

Setting out from the car park, you will pick up the trail leading to the west and keep left at the fork, heading to the southwest to enter into the cover of the forest and follow the trail as it skirts along the winding banks of the Kilkeel River. After 0.8 km, you will cross over the river and continue along the west bank, following it to the northwest as you enjoy the tranquil woodland atmosphere.

After another 0.9 km, make a left turn along the trail and follow it for 0.12mi to exit the tree cover and arrive at a junction. Turn right here and follow the path to the north as it skirts the edge of the forest, climbing gently uphill to eventually reach the edge of the Silent Valley Dam. Turn right here and make your way across the dam wall, enjoying the spectacular views across the Silent Valley Reservoir that include the beautiful sight of the Mourne Mountains in the backdrop.

Reaching the opposite side of the dam wall, turn right and follow along the road south for 0.7 km. Here, you will pass by the Silent Valley Cafe on your right, as you make the return leg of the walk back to the car park where you began the Silent Valley Reservoir Walk.

Trail Highlights

Silent Valley Reservoir

Constructed between 1923 and 1933 by a force of over 1000 workers, the Silent Valley Reservoir was built with the purpose of gathering water from the Mourne Mountains. From there, it would supply a large part of Belfast, in addition to all of County Down with clean drinking water. The reservoir is located southwest of Belfast in the Mourne & Slieve Croob Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

How deep is the Silent Valley Reservoir?

At its deepest point, the Silent Valley Reservoir is 65 m deep.

How much does it cost to enter Silent Valley?

Per vehicle, it cost £4.50 to enter Silent Valley.