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The Mournes Fires Appeal

A view of Slieve Donard, a dark mountain with clouds at the peak, the highest mountain in Northern Ireland
A view of Slieve Donard in the Mourne Mountains | © National Trust Images/Joe Cornish

We're making essential improvements to our IT systems, which means you won't be able to donate to this appeal at the moment. However, you can still donate to our other appeals.

Inspiration to generations

The Mourne Mountains are the highest and most dramatic mountain range in Northern Ireland. Beloved by hikers, the Mournes have long inspired writers and storytellers. A landmark of international importance, its 12 peaks have been designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

But over 200 hectares of special habitat was destroyed in April 2021 when wildfires ripped through Slieve Donard.

We need your help to restore this fragile landscape for ground-nesting birds like skylarks and the famous Irish hare as well as countless other species.

Wide shot of two volunteers walking up a hillside from left to right with blue sky behind

Donate to make a difference

Your support is essential to help us look after nature, beauty and history. Make a donation today, and together we can protect precious places for everyone, forever.

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Our work to recover from fires in the Mournes 

We’re carrying out conservation work at the Mournes Mountains in Northern Ireland to help the area recover from damage caused by wild fires and adapt to the effects of climate change. Find out how measures such as conservation grazing, wildlife surveys and new technology are protecting fragile habitats and supporting nature.

Slieve Donard, Mourne Mountains, County Down, Northern Ireland
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History of Slieve Donard 

Slieve Donard is steeped in history with settlements dating back to 5,500 BC. Named after a hermit who lived on the summit, discover the history of Northern Ireland’s tallest mountain.