Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX is a short out-and-back from the Round Table to the 483 m summit of South Barrule. It covers 2.4 km and gains 171 m, so the distance is modest, but the climb is steady from the moment you leave the road. The line follows the direct hill path rather than wandering into the forestry tracks lower down.
From the roadside start, go through the gate and follow the obvious path north-east across open moorland. The trod becomes stonier as it climbs and there are a few rocky patches near the top, but there is no scrambling. Stay on the main worn line all the way to the broad summit, where the trig point stands among the remains of an Iron Age hillfort. On a clear day the view reaches across the south of the island and out to sea. Return to the Round Table by exactly the same path.
This is a quick hill rather than a long day out, but the top is exposed and can be windy even when it feels calm at the road. Mist can also flatten the featureless upper slope surprisingly quickly. Take a waterproof, keep the return bearing in mind and watch your footing on wet rock and peat. Parking is limited around the junction, so leave gates and access clear and take particular care beside the A27 and A36.
A short climb, a broad view and plenty of Manx weather: South Barrule earns its place in an afternoon.
TrailTrack
Route Waypoints
Start from the parking area by the Round Table road junction. Check that the vehicle is fully off the carriageway and do not block the gate.
Pass through the access gate and take the clear path heading north-east. Close the gate behind you and keep dogs under close control around livestock.
Follow the worn grassy and peaty line uphill. Ignore forestry tracks and side trods dropping away from the direct ridge.
The gradient firms and the path becomes rougher. Keep to the clearest line through the stones rather than widening the eroded edges.
Reach the broader upper slope. The summit is close, but in mist use the GPX and a compass because the return path can blend into the moor.
The 483 m summit has a trig point and the earth-and-stone remains of an ancient hillfort. Keep away from any unstable edges of the earthworks.
Retrace the same path south-west. Loose stones and damp peat deserve more care downhill than they did on the ascent.
Pass back through the gate and return to the parking place, taking care as you approach the road junction.
Essential Tips
The Round Table sits where two roads meet. Park considerately, keep gates clear and take care when getting in or out of the vehicle.
South Barrule is exposed above the plantations. Carry a windproof layer even on a short walk and turn back if gusts make the descent awkward.
The route comes back the same way. In mist, take a bearing from the summit before leaving and do not drift towards the forestry.
The summit earthworks are an archaeological site. Walk gently around them and do not move stones or add to cairns.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to climb South Barrule?
About 45 minutes total for the 2.4 km round trip. It's a short, steady climb of 159 metres, so it's more of a quick afternoon hill than a full day out.
Is South Barrule suitable for beginners?
Yes, it's graded as easy with no scrambling required. The path is clear and the distance is short, though the climb is steady from the start and can get rocky near the top, so basic hill fitness helps.
Where do you park for South Barrule?
At the Round Table road junction where the A27 and A36 meet. Parking is limited, so make sure you're completely off the road and not blocking any gates.