Ben Bury

Overview

Ben Bury (Irish: Ucht an Chreagáin, meaning “breast of the little crag”) rises to 795 m (2,608 ft) and forms the north‑eastern shoulder of the Mweelrea massif in County Mayo. It is the third‑highest summit in the Mweelrea area and ranks 45th in Ireland overall. The peak sits on a striking horseshoe‑shaped ridge that includes Mweelrea (814 m) and Ben Lugmore, overlooking the dramatic fjord‑like Killary Harbour to the south and the glacial valley of Glenconnelly to the north.

History & Naming

The name Ucht an Chreagáin reflects the mountain’s distinctive shape – a rounded summit that resembles a small breast or crag. Early maps also recorded the English nickname “Oughty Craggy”. Ben Bury is listed on the Vandeleur‑Lynam and Arderin mountain lists, confirming its prominence of 60 m (196 ft) and its status as a recognised Irish summit.

Geology & Landscape

The Mweelrea Formation, of which Ben Bury is a component, consists mainly of Ordovician sandstones deposited on ancient alluvial fans and delta plains. Interbedded volcanic ash layers give the rock a speckled appearance. This geology contrasts sharply with the neighbouring Twelve Bens range across Killary Harbour, which is dominated by quartzite. The mountain’s north‑facing slopes are steep and craggy, while the summit plateau is relatively flat, dotted with cairns and boulders.

What to See & Do

Hill‑walking routes

Ben Bury is most often tackled as part of the Mweelrea Horseshoe, a 15‑km circuit that starts and finishes at the Delphi Mountain Spa & Lodge (grid reference L840652). The loop traverses the ridges of Mweelrea, Ben Lugmore, Ben Bury and the SE Spur, offering some of the “top three” ridge walks in Ireland according to guidebooks. A typical itinerary:

1. Begin at Delphi, follow the Owenaglough River upstream through boggy ground.
2. Ascend the steep climb to Mweelrea’s summit, marked by a cairn.
3. Continue northeast along the ridge, dropping to a col that leads to Ben Bury’s summit.
4. Reach Ben Bury’s flat top, where cairns mark the highest point.
5. Descend via a narrow ridge toward the gap, then retrace steps back to Delphi.

The full circuit takes roughly 6–7 hours and involves a total ascent of about 1,200 m.

Direct Ben Bury route

For walkers who prefer a single‑peak challenge, the Ben Bury 17.1 km route (4,135 m gain) is the most popular. It starts from the same Delphi base, climbs the Mweelrea ridge, and after summiting Mweelrea, drops onto the Ben Bury col before the final ascent. The route is graded as a moderate‑to‑hard hillwalk and typically requires 7 hours.

Scrambles & winter climbs

The north‑east slopes of Ben Bury provide Grade 1‑2 scrambles that are popular with experienced hillwalkers. In winter, the Lough Bellawaum corrie on the mountain’s north‑east side hosts the Blue Route (Grade II/III, 270 m) and Red Route (Grade III, 305 m), offering technical ice and mixed climbing for seasoned alpinists.

Alternative Approaches

Two other recognised approaches are described by local walkers:

• The Ramp – an eastern ascent that starts in the Coum Dubh (Sruhauncullinmore) valley. The track climbs steeply to the col between Ben Lugmore and Ben Bury, then follows the ridge to the summit. This route avoids the longer Mweelrea ridge but involves a steep, rocky scramble.
• Doo Lough access – a car‑park at the south‑east end of Doo Lough (grid L8282 6950) provides a shorter approach to the Ben Bury col. From the parking area, a well‑marked track leads past the narrow neck of land between Doo Lough and Glencullin Lough before joining the ridge.

Both alternatives are noted on the OS Discovery Series 37 map and are used by hikers seeking a more direct ascent.

Parking & Facilities

The summit area is open‑access; no entry fee is required.

Nearby Attractions

While you’re in the Mweelrea area, consider adding these short detours:

• Aasleagh Falls – a picturesque waterfall on the R335, just a few kilometres north of Delphi. (Aasleagh Falls)
• Doo Lough – a tranquil lake with a reflective surface that mirrors the surrounding peaks; ideal for a picnic or a quick photo stop.
• Killary Harbour – Ireland’s only true fjord, offering boat tours and spectacular sea‑to‑mountain scenery.
• Ben Lugmore – the neighbouring peak with classic ridge‑walk options; often combined with Ben Bury in the horseshoe circuit.

Getting There

From Westport (the nearest large town), follow the R335 south‑west to Louisburgh, then continue to the Delphi centre. Public transport to Louisburgh is limited, so a private car is recommended. The nearest major airport is Ireland West Airport Knock, about 70 km north‑east; from there, a rental car provides the most flexible access.

Safety & Seasonal Considerations

The most climbed months are August, September and October, when daylight is ample and the mountain is relatively dry. Winter conditions can create icy sections on the north‑east corrie, so appropriate ice‑axe and crampon skills are essential for the Blue and Red routes. The terrain can be boggy after rain, particularly on the lower sections near the Owenaglough River. Always carry a map, compass and sufficient clothing; visibility can change rapidly on the exposed ridge.

Summary

Ben Bury may not have the dramatic summit cairn of Mweelrea, but its flat top offers unrivalled 360° views across Killary Harbour, the Atlantic coastline, and the surrounding peaks. Whether tackled as part of the classic Mweelrea Horseshoe, via the direct Ben Bury route, or approached from the east on The Ramp, it delivers a rewarding blend of geological interest, panoramic scenery, and a genuine sense of remote mountain adventure.