Kodak Corner – A Detailed Guide to Cloughmore Stone's Most Photogenic Spot

Kodak Corner crowns the Cloughmore Stone Trail the way a bold azulejo tattoo crowns a forearm. The vantage surveys Carlingford Lough, Warrenpoint, and the Mourne Mountains in one clean sweep. Every direction delivers a print‑ready scene, as definite as the compass‑rose needles on many Portugal‑inspired ink designs.

Kilbroney Park frames this viewpoint with forest, lough, and granite giants. Kodak Corner is located in County Down. Clear signage, steady paths, and year‑round access make the stop easy. Photographers chase sunrise, hikers chase legends, and mountain‑bike riders carve singletrack—everyone leaves with memories etched like fine linework.

Introduction to Kodak Corner

Kodak Corner is a stunning viewpoint nestled in the heart of Northern Ireland, offering incredible views of Carlingford Lough and the majestic Mourne Mountains. The trail skirts the edge of the forest, providing hikers and outdoor enthusiasts with a unique and breathtaking experience. As you ascend, the path reveals a panorama that is nothing short of spectacular, making it a popular spot for photography.

Located at the foothills of the Mourne Mountains, Kodak Corner is an ideal spot for a picnic or a relaxing break from hiking. Spread out a blanket and enjoy the serene surroundings as you take in the incredible views. This stunning viewpoint not only offers a visual feast but also serves as a great place to learn about the local geography and history of the area. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual visitor, Kodak Corner promises an unforgettable experience.

What is Kodak Corner?

Kodak Corner is a natural balcony above Rostrevor. The spot sits just beyond the 50‑tonne Cloughmore Stone, a glacial erratic that anchors local folklore. The name signals certainty: every angle yields postcard clarity. A map is available at the starting point which details the official routes and their way-markers.

Like blue‑and‑white tile art in Lisbon, the view here layers water, woodland, and mountain into a seamless pattern. Hikers often compare its symmetry to famous Portugal tattoo ideas—compass, caravels, and roosters—because each element points a different direction yet fits one design.

Where is Kodak Corner in the Mourne Mountains?

Kodak Corner lies in Kilbroney Park on the A2 outside Rostrevor, County Down. Belfast stands 80 km north; Dublin sits 110 km south. Good roads, clear signs, and GPS coverage make access certain.

The viewpoint perches roughly 290 m above sea level, near OS grid reference J 193 173. Visitors can find information about the trails and routes at the park's visitor center. That height gives the sweeping lough panorama.

Why Visit Kodak Corner?

Views here hit like bold line ink: sharp, permanent, and unmistakable. Carlingford Lough glows teal, the Mourne ridge rolls dark green, and the Irish Sea shimmers silver. Photographers enjoy light that changes every minute, much like the shifting hues of Portuguese tilework. Visitors can choose from various trails and viewpoints to explore.

Families gain a quick climb with huge payoff. Adventure cyclists weave past on purpose‑built red and black trails. Myth hunters trace Finn McCool legends, then carve the tale into memory. We recommend a detour to enjoy the scenery from a different viewpoint.

The Cloughmore Stone: Legend and Science

Stand before the Cloughmore Stone and you meet myth and geology in a single granite slab. Finn McCool’s mighty throw and a glacier’s careful push share equal credit, as fixed as an azulejo‑blue tattoo line. This section separates legend from fact in plain terms. Decide for yourself which theory you find more intriguing.

The Legend

Local lore states the giant Finn McCool hurled this granite boulder across the lough at a Scottish rival. The counter‑throw shaped the Isle of Man; the resulting gouge filled to form Lough Neagh. The story endures, as clear as any fado lyric carved into skin. 

The Science

Geologists label the rock a glacial erratic. Retreating ice moved it from Scotland to its present seat about 10 000 years ago. Hand‑sample tests confirm Scottish granite, not Mourne dolerite. The weight sits near 50 tonnes, solid and unmoved. 

How to Get to Kodak Corner?

Reaching Kodak Corner stays straightforward. Drive the forest road to the upper car park, then follow a clear fifteen‑minute trail—nothing tricky. The route guides you like a compass‑rose tattoo, arrowing straight toward the view. Visitors can continue exploring other trails in the area after reaching Kodak Corner.

Starting Point: Kilbroney Park

Enter Kilbroney Park at Rostrevor. Follow signs to the lower car park, then drive the forest road 2 mi to the upper lot beside Synge & Byrne Café. Ticket machines accept cards and coins.

Distance varies with route. From the upper lot, it is about 600 m to Cloughmore Stone, then another 500 m to Kodak Corner. Allow 25 minutes walking time out; add photography stops. Grade is moderate with some steep gravel. Take care due to the presence of mountain biking routes and shared use of trails by cyclists.

Step-by-Step Trail Guide

1. Leave the car park following the brown Cloughmore posts.

2. Climb a wide gravel path under spruce canopy.

3. Reach Cloughmore Stone; pause for legends.

4. Turn left onto a narrower dirt line trending south‑east.

5. Descend, then ascend a knuckle of granite.

6. Step onto Kodak Corner. The lough spreads like a tiled mural.

7. Return the same way or loop past Fiddler’s Green and Slieve Martin.

What to Expect at Kodak Corner?

Expect a silent balcony with 270‑degree sightlines. On clear mornings, fishing boats leave Greencastle; on clear evenings, lights in Warrenpoint sparkle like enamel dots on a sardine design. Ravens ride thermals overhead. Mountain‑bike riders sometimes cut across; stay alert. 

Photography Opportunities at Kodak Corner

Kodak Corner is a photographer’s paradise, offering a wide range of photography opportunities. From sweeping landscapes and nature photography to intimate portraits and event photography, this location has it all. The stunning viewpoint and incredible views make it an ideal location for a photo booth rental or a photography event, providing a picturesque backdrop for capturing special moments.

The unique features and breathtaking scenery of Kodak Corner make it a popular spot for photographers and guests alike. The trail and surrounding forest provide a great backdrop for photos, while the edge of the forest offers a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re aiming to capture the stunning views of the sea or the rugged beauty of the mountains, Kodak Corner has something to offer.

Its availability for events and photography sessions makes it a great choice for anyone looking to plan a special occasion. With its incredible views and diverse photography opportunities, Kodak Corner is sure to provide a memorable and visually stunning experience.

Facilities and Amenities at Kodak Corner

Synge & Byrne Café opens 09:00‑17:00 daily, serving coffee, soups, and fresh bakes. Toilets and picnic tables sit at both car parks. Pay‑and‑display machines accept sterling and contactless. Outdoor play areas, visitor centre, and an arboretum add value. Kilbroney Park and the café have opening hours from 09:00 to 17:00, providing ample time for visitors to enjoy the facilities.

Best Times to Visit Kodak Corner

The best time to visit Kodak Corner is from April to October, when daylight lasts longest. Dawn brings pink skies. Dusk delivers a warm, golden glow. Visitors have various options for different times of day to capture the best photographs.

Kilbroney Park opens daily at 09:00. It closes at:

• 17:00 from November to February

• 18:00 in March

• 19:00 in April and October

• 21:00 in May

• 22:00 from June to September

Nearby Attractions to Kodak Corner

Nearby attractions lie within a 30-minute drive of Kodak Corner. The Mourne Mountains, Tollymore Forest Park, Silent Valley Reservoir, Rostrevor village, and Carlingford Lough all sit close by. Each destination delivers its own standout views and activities to round out your visit.

Tips for Visiting Kodak Corner

Here are key tips for visiting Kodak Corner:

Follow these guidelines to ensure a safe, memorable, and photo-ready experience. Thanks for your feedback and support; we are dedicated to providing excellent service and ensuring you have a positive experience.

• Wear gripping footwear. Granite polishes smooth and slips when wet.

• Pack layers and a rain shell. Weather flips fast in the Mourne Mountains.

• Arrive at sunrise or sunset. You’ll get soft light and fewer people.

• Bring a lens cloth. Sea spray can drift far inland.

• Download a map or OS route. Mobile signal dips in some gullies.

• Capture panorama bursts, then detail shots. Tattoo artists reference these varied textures when sketching Portugal-style designs on skin.

• Use local guides or apps. They can enhance your experience by providing valuable insights and recommendations.

Where to Eat and Drink at Kodak Corner

Here are the best spots to eat and drink around Kodak Corner:

• Synge & Byrne Café: Grab coffee, pastries, and light lunches right at the upper car park.

• The Old School House (Rostrevor): Enjoy hearty chowder in a converted school building.

• Good Craic Gifts (Rostrevor): Sip locally roasted coffee and browse artisan souvenirs.

• PJs Bar (Rostrevor): Drink stout and catch live traditional music most nights.

• The Rostrevor Inn (Warrenpoint): Feast on fresh seafood in a nautical-themed setting.

These local eateries match the overall aesthetic and atmosphere of the area, enhancing your visit to Kodak Corner.

How to Plan Your Visit for Kodak Corner? 

Planning your trip to Kodak Corner couldn’t be easier. Just take the A2 Shore Road into Rostrevor and follow the brown Kilbroney Park signs. Pull into the lower car park (£3 per car) or drive on up to the upper lot by Synge & Byrne Café (£4 per car; free for Blue Badge holders). Pay machines accept cards and cash, and cyclists and pedestrians enter free. For added convenience, use a mobile app for navigation and planning your visit.

Once you’re parked, lace up your boots and hit the firm gravel track. It’s 600 m to the Cloughmore Stone, then another 500 m along a narrower, steeper path to Kodak Corner. Stick to the marked trails, pack water and snacks, and check local council alerts for storm closures. Now you’re all set—go soak in those views!

Why Should Kodak Corner Be on Your Bucket List?

Kodak Corner offers sure, sweeping views for modest effort. The viewpoint fuses legend, geology, and modern adventure into one etched memory—like a timeless tile pattern on the body of Ireland’s coast. Visit, capture, and carry the scene the way a traveller carries a compass‑rose tattoo: clear, bold, and always pointing back to adventure. There are various options for different types of visitors, from hikers to photographers, ensuring a tailored experience for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kodak Corner

1. What is the Cloughmore Stone?

A 50‑tonne granite boulder moved by ice and frozen in legend. Decide for yourself which theory you find more intriguing.

2. How long is the walk?

Twenty‑five minutes from the upper lot with rests.

3. Is the route family friendly?

Yes. Children need sturdy shoes. Paths stay wide and stable.

4. Are dogs welcome?

Dogs on leads are welcome; bins stand at each lot.

5. Can I cycle?

Yes. Dedicated red and black mountain‑bike routes cross near the point. Yield right‑of‑way and stay alert.