Northern Ireland Outdoors Forum - Hiking, camping and more

General => Meets, places, trips and reviews => Topic started by: MG1 on November 01, 2011

Title: Family camp
Post by: MG1 on November 01, 2011
I'm planning on bringing my wee fella to bloody bridge this Saturday if any one wants to join us, feel free.
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Dowser on November 01, 2011
I'm planning on bringing my wee fella to bloody bridge this Saturday if any one wants to join us, feel free.

I will be there for this one, fingers crossed!!!  I've an all expenses paid corporate trip to Down Royal Race Track to attend on Friday, so hopefully I will be able to draw upon some inner strength (and Redbull) to get me to Bloody Bridge.

Will have my 4 & 5 year olds with me.

8)
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: RedLeader on November 01, 2011
I'll be there with the small boy. Worth mentioning, it'll be Guy Fawkes night.
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Matthew on November 01, 2011
I will be there too minus anyone else.
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Dowser on November 01, 2011
I will be there too minus anyone else.

Excellent, I'm gonna need a baby sitter with my hangover  ;D
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Grace. on November 02, 2011
Me and Oisin are coming along to this :) Has anyone got two free seats from belfast to newcastle  ::)
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: wee gaz on November 02, 2011
was going to do bloody bridge on sunday with my 7 year old daughter this sunday but may now do family camp.what time sat. secure parking ? new to this, any tips cheers. if only sunday would love to meet up
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Dowser on November 02, 2011
was going to do bloody bridge on sunday with my 7 year old daughter this sunday but may now do family camp.what time sat. secure parking ? new to this, any tips cheers. if only sunday would love to meet up

Hi Gary

Would be great to see you on Saturday.  Bloody Bridge campsite is very secure and you will be parking near enough beside your tent so no worries there!

Peeps will be arriving from about 3pm onwards I would guess, but keep an eye on this thread and firmer arrangements will be made closer to the time.

Tips wise, it's technically car camping, so bring plenty of gear to stay warm through the night.  Don't be afraid to throw a good double duvet in the car along with your sleeping bags this time of year.  And bring plenty of supplies and snacks to keep your self and your daughter well fed.

There will be an open fire to keep warm by into the early hours of the morning too whilst sipping on a few brews.

If there's anything else you want to know just ask, and hopefully see you on Saturday.

Dowser

 8)
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: MG1 on November 03, 2011
Me and Oisin are coming along to this :) Has anyone got two free seats from belfast to newcastle  ::)
 

Can't help you from Belfast but if you can get to Newcastle i can bring you's out to Bloody bridge.
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: wee gaz on November 03, 2011
had look at map for bloody bridge campsite, did`nt even know it was there. stupid question but is there a lane to drive up to campsite? now we`re looking forward to w/end
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Dowser on November 03, 2011
had look at map for bloody bridge campsite, did`nt even know it was there. stupid question but is there a lane to drive up to campsite? now we`re looking forward to w/end

There is a lane... The entrance to the campsite is right beside the Style for the Bloody Bridge Walk, opposite the main BB Carpark.  Just be careful turning into it, as you know how busy that road can be, so get your car well up to the gate and off the road before getting out to open the gate.

Once through the gate you can drive right up into the campsite and you will be able to pitch your tent just feet from your car if you so wish.

 8)
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: RedLeader on November 03, 2011
Drive out of Newcastle towards Annalong until you pass Bloody Bridge Car Park on the left (the one with the public toilets etc). A few meters down the road from it on the mountains side is the Bloody Bridge trail which has a 5 bar farmers gate to its right. This is the entrance to Bloody Bridge Campsite. Just blow through the gate and up the (crappy) lane. Think the campsite is the 2nd or so on the right, through another gate. Not sure how we'll all know who's who and where to pitch. Do you know what time you're arriving at?

had look at map for bloody bridge campsite, did`nt even know it was there. stupid question but is there a lane to drive up to campsite? now we`re looking forward to w/end
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: wee gaz on November 03, 2011
cheers for info , should be down about 2.30-3.00 cant miss me, same size as rucksack and looking lost lol.
r we there yet ?
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Grace. on November 03, 2011
If the weather is bad is this still a go ahead? Just me and Oisin will be having to leave early morning Saturday to get to Newcastle for lunch time. How much is it to camp at meelmore?

Grace.
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: RedLeader on November 03, 2011
Not Meelmore - Bloody Bridge!! Don't be going to the wrong place :) It's £6 per person per night. The weather is crappy now but the forecast for the weekend is great so it should be fine.


If the weather is bad is this still a go ahead? Just me and Oisin will be having to leave early morning Saturday to get to Newcastle for lunch time. How much is it to camp at meelmore?

Grace.
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Matthew on November 03, 2011
It gives the weather as good for Saturday and Sunday, well at least it did there on u tv. As for the camping it's a bloody bridge and i thought it was £7 but I could be wrong.
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Grace. on November 03, 2011
There was me and oisin all week thinking we were heading to Meelmore Oops, my fault. lol I really should read things twice.  Not to bad then. And yes I saw the weather is supposed to clear up for Saturday so fingers crossed.
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Matthew on November 03, 2011
Grace, you have a PM.
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: surfnscenic on November 04, 2011
I might just be tempted to attend this get together.

Red Leader, do you think that if Frank was contacted he might let us use the lower field like we did in May/June?
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: RedLeader on November 04, 2011
Go on, you know it makes sense!!!

He probably would, I'm guessing it'll be quiet. Does someone want to give him a call?

I might just be tempted to attend this get together.

Red Leader, do you think that if Frank was contacted he might let us use the lower field like we did in May/June?
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: surfnscenic on November 04, 2011
I rang the mobile number displayed on the website

http://www.bloodybridge.com/index.html

but "this number it is switched off." :(
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Kayakgirl on November 04, 2011
Have a great night..
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Scribble on November 05, 2011
I'm coming along with 2 kids, and the wife .
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: surfnscenic on November 05, 2011
Attention!  Bloody Bridge Campsite is NOT open this week end. :( :'(

I have just spoken with Frank.  The site is closed for the winter.  Sheep are grazing in the fileds used for tents.

However, with enough notice he would be prepared to open up for 10 - 12 campers.

I'll give Meelmore a ring. Stand by.

Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: RedLeader on November 05, 2011
Good catch George. I just assumed he was open all year round. Hopefully Meelmore will be open.

Attention!  Bloody Bridge Campsite is NOT open this week end. :( :'(

I have just spoken with Frank.  The site is closed for the winter.  Sheep are grazing in the fileds used for tents.

However, with enough notice he would be prepared to open up for 10 - 12 campers.

I'll give Meelmore a ring. Stand by.
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Scribble on November 05, 2011
Only 4 to 5 tents then Frank will allow  :( I thought he was open all year round too  , if bloody bridge is preferred I will bow out to keep numbers down as I ain't told my boys yet and I'm sure my wife will be secretly smiling from the inside when I tell her  ;D
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: RedLeader on November 05, 2011
I think George means Bloody Bridge would open as long as we had a minimum of 10-12 people but they'd need some notice.George is checking with Meelmore now.

Only 4 to 5 tents then Frank will allow  :( I thought he was open all year round too  , if bloody bridge is preferred I will bow out to keep numbers down as I ain't told my boys yet and I'm sure my wife will be secretly smiling from the inside when I tell her  ;D
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: surfnscenic on November 05, 2011
Meelmore Lodge is open.

Camping is however restricted to the area beside the toilet block and the car park which is really convenient for car camping.

I have spoken with Red Leader and the suggested meeting time of 3pm remains.

The lady I spoke with will be at the Lodge unitl 5pm.
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: RedLeader on November 05, 2011
Sounds good to me. Only thing would us useful if someone could bring an actual BBQ rather than a disposable as then we can have a fire in it.
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Scribble on November 05, 2011
Sounds good to me. Only thing would us useful if someone could bring an actual BBQ rather than a disposable as then we can have a fire in it.

I got BBQ sorted but no charcoal . I'm heading down town soon so will have looksee , will we be needing firelogs and logs or will meelmore have them
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: wee gaz on November 05, 2011
will someone let grace know QUICK, she was always heading to meelmore
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: RedLeader on November 05, 2011
I've got 2 bags of ready light type charcoal if that would be enough. Any room on your grill for a couple'o steaks?

Sounds good to me. Only thing would us useful if someone could bring an actual BBQ rather than a disposable as then we can have a fire in it.

I got BBQ sorted but no charcoal . I'm heading down town soon so will have looksee , will we be needing firelogs and logs or will meelmore have them
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Scribble on November 05, 2011
Good as I could find no coal at all , BBQ is open to all to use  ;D , hope there are still a few kids going to keep mine busy . Really looking forward till this .. Wats eveyones washing their food down with
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: RedLeader on November 05, 2011
Since we're not trekking anywhere I might treat myself to some red and a few Guinness.

Good as I could find no coal at all , BBQ is open to all to use  ;D , hope there are still a few kids going to keep mine busy . Really looking forward till this .. Wats eveyones washing their food down with
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: surfnscenic on November 05, 2011
Cool box in car with Guinness and a Merlot. Remember to bring a glass!

I have a disposable BBQ I'll bring in addition to Trangia and MSR stoves.

Are the firelogs called by a particular brandname?  If I see some I'll bring one or two along.
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: RedLeader on November 05, 2011
Think they're just called firelogs. A self lighting peat log in wrapped in paper.

Cool box in car with Guinness and a Merlot. Remember to bring a glass!

I have a disposable BBQ I'll bring in addition to Trangia and MSR stoves.

Are the firelogs called by a particular brandname?  If I see some I'll bring one or two along.
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: surfnscenic on November 05, 2011
I'm going to stop at the garage/supermarket at Clough on the way down to get a steak and other food stuff so if I see one I'll get it.
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: LandyLiam on November 05, 2011
the barbican garage in newcastle does 2 of the good firelogs for £3, they usually have a good selection of meat too
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: LandyLiam on November 05, 2011
just checking, is this definitely now happening at meelmore lodge?
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Spud on November 05, 2011
Great night for it folks, enjoy!
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: LandyLiam on November 05, 2011
managed to pop up for half an hour tonight, bit nippy out there, good fire going though

(http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd496/landyliam/2011/P1090713Small.jpg)


(http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd496/landyliam/2011/P1090718Small.jpg)


(http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd496/landyliam/2011/P1090714Small.jpg)


(http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd496/landyliam/2011/P1090715Small.jpg)


(http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd496/landyliam/2011/P1090716Small.jpg)
the hare's gap
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: MG1 on November 06, 2011
Great night guys. Weather was class. 8)
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: wee gaz on November 06, 2011
myself and chloe had a great weekend even though we went to bed early. today chloe made it up to hare`s gap no probs on her first mournes walk and loved it . she also enjoyed the other kids company. thanks guys for a great weekend
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: surfnscenic on November 06, 2011
Had a good time at Meelmore Lodge in superb weather. Nice to see folks again  and to put names to new faces.  Good food and refreshments around a roaring fire-thanks Andy for providing the BBQ.

I had a quick walk up to the Hares Gap on Sunday in glorious sunshine.  My head feels a little burnt!

Well done to little Chloe on her first camp along with Dad Gary.  Congratulations on reaching the Hares Gap.  Hopefully it's not the last of your expeditions and adventures.

Thanks to everyone for a good time.
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Scribble on November 06, 2011
Had a great time glad to meet everyone  weather was great craic was super , my boys loved it my wife hated the tent and me throwing the head staggers and needing to go home at 4:30 in morning :-[ . I blame the cold my tablets and prob the cider   ::)

Well done Chloe Daddy must be  proud  ;D

Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Dowser on November 06, 2011
Apologies for having to pull out of this one at the last minute guys and girls.  When I collected my kids on Saturday morning they were loaded with colds and bad chests and Mummy issued a full on camping ban  :(

Sounds like you all had a great time, as always, and hopefully I'll get to meet some of the new faces soon.

 8)
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: RedLeader on November 07, 2011
Man, am I tired today. What makes me think I can stay up so late!!
Great night guys but it really made me want a night in the actual mountains.
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Grace. on November 07, 2011
This was a great night. Looking forward to the next one.
Man, am I tired today. What makes me think I can stay up so late!!
Great night guys but it really made me want a night in the actual mountains.
I think Oisin would also like this too.  Wasn't too cold once I got into my sleeping bag so was pretty happy.
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Matthew on November 07, 2011
What a great night in the comfort of Meelmore Lodge. I suffered on the sunday but by bedtime I was on the mend.

Great night guys but it really made me want a night in the actual mountains.

There is something I love about the cool crisp weather at this time of year that is crying out for a "in the hills wild camp " Lets get this sorted soon.
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Rumblebum on November 07, 2011
Absolutely Matt, would you have anywhere in paticular in mind? I think quite a few tents were bought in the field + trek sale there and theyl be needing broken in.
I think im gonna tackle either Doan again or spend the night on Bernagh.
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: RedLeader on November 07, 2011
I really fancy this. From the new secure car park that Chuck found round Lough Shannagh and over Slieve LoughShannagh  to finish on Meelbeg, one of the summits I need checked off my overnighter list.

(http://i.imgur.com/VsFv0.jpg)
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Matthew on November 07, 2011
A colleague tells me of a place on the path beside the Kilkeel River as you drop off the Brandy pad, which has access to a water supply and has a patch of flat grassy ground. Apparently, it is not visible from the track but I am keen to find it. The Shelter Stone would be another vote but I would ideally like to do this on the first snow as a test before I tackle anything like a summit in the snow. Doan again is a lovely place to camp but not Bearnagh for me; it is an absolute buster to get up but is fantastic once there. Actually, I will go anywhere.
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Rumblebum on November 07, 2011
Meelbegs a gower for me alright, im happy anywhere really and it would be another summit camp in the bag.        You should get some cracking views from it depending on the weather, and if anyones strapped for time they could park at Meelmore and take the ulster way up to it.
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: ChuckMcB on November 07, 2011
Meanwhile on a hill a fair distance away:

(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6054/6319556364_5a688008c0.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcrobert/6319556364/)

(more (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcrobert/sets/72157627943513079/))

Sorry I didn't make it over to Meelmore to say hello, the call of the summit was too much on such a cold, clear, dry and windless night. By the time I made it over you folks were long gone. Wife was at Meelmore a bit after 9am on the Sunday but didn't recognise any faces.

...a place on the path beside the Kilkeel River as you drop off the Brandy pad....
I went up the Killkeel river after the Shelter stone camp and there are some cracking wee small camp sites right beside the river, but none bigger than would take just one tent, or two/three bivviers. Very cool hidden river. (pic (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcrobert/5970925440/in/set-72157627145617303/))
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: Rumblebum on November 07, 2011
Hi Chuck, you stuck lucky with waking up to weather like that, the pics look class.

I havnt been on that side of the silent valley yet but the scenery looks great.
Title: Re: Family camp
Post by: RedLeader on November 08, 2011
The brilliant clear sky we had must have been epic from inside the Mournes.