Hikes in Northern Ireland
Situated in the northeast corner of the island of Ireland, Northern Ireland is a visually stunning destination that is shrouded in a rich history, fascinating legends, and picturesque landscapes. Beautifully scenic forests, rugged mountain peaks, dramatic coastlines, and historic castles can be found throughout the country, meaning that an exciting adventure is never too far away.
Whether the aim of your Northern Ireland adventure is to climb the country’s highest peak of Slieve Donard or explore the world famous Giant’s Causeway that is said to have been built by the Irish giant Finn MacCool, you can rest assured that there will be countless opportunities to get outside and experience this magical place.
Featuring a population of just over 1.8 million people, Northern Ireland is a fairly small nation that borders the Republic of Ireland to the south. Created in 1921 after the partition of Ireland, Northern Ireland remains a part of the United Kingdom, although culturally it shares similarities with both nations. The most popular tourist attraction in the country is the aforementioned Giant’s Causeway, although the various natural and historical locations have risen dramatically in popularity after being used to film the HBO series Game of Thrones.
The 25 Best Walking Routes In Northern Ireland
Whether you are looking to experience the rich history, culture, and architecture of the city or head out further afield to explore the forests, mountains, and coastlines of this picturesque island nation, there are so many different ways to take in the beauty of Northern Ireland on a fun walking adventure. It doesn’t matter if you are a seasoned outdoor enthusiast, a beginner walker, or a young family looking to get outside and explore nature with the kids, there are countless routes that can be found here that cater to all skill levels, allowing you to worry less about planning your adventure and focus more on living it. Check out this list of 25 amazing Northern Ireland walking routes that we’ve put together below:
- Mount Stewart Lake Walk: This quick adventure in County Down is filled with historic architecture and extravagant gardens. The laid back nature of the route and its historical charm make it ideal for a relaxing weekend walk.
- Glenariff Gorge Circular Walk: A family-friendly route in the Antrim Coast & Glens AONB, the Glenariff Gorge Circular Walk will lead you through an exceptional woodland landscape to take in some stunning views of nearby waterfalls.
- Glenariff Forest Park Scenic Trail: Another route within the serene expanse of the Glenariff Forest Park, this trail still visits the waterfalls in the area, but takes a longer loop through the forest to better experience the plant and animal life.
- Comber Greenway Trail: This fantastic trail in Belfast follows along a green corridor through the city in order to take you into the countryside to reach the nearby town of Comber. The route utilizes an old railway line, meaning you won’t encounter any vehicles on your walk.
- Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail: An iconic walking route in Northern Ireland, this trail will take you on a wooden boardwalk across a UNESCO-designated global geopark in order to reach the top of Cuilcagh Mountain for some stunning views.
- Castle Ward Shore Trail: The Castle Ward Shore Trail is an awesome walking route in County Down that will let you experience some stunning historical architecture that was featured as a filming location in the HBO series Game of Thrones.
- Castle Archdale Circular Walk: This family-friendly adventure offers a great mixture of nature and history, allowing you to explore the grounds of a 17th Century castle that was set along the shores of a charming lake.
- Gosford Forest Park Circular Walk: Another lovely forest walk, the Gosford Forest Park Circular will take you around the grounds of a 19th Century castle to take in views of the architecture, ponds, and well-manicured gardens that can be found along the trail
- Glenariff Forest Park Rainbow Trail: This is yet another walking route within the beautiful Glenariff Forest Park; however, this short route will take you across the Rainbow Bridge that spans the Glenariff River, allowing you to experience some lovely woodland views.
- Castle Espie Wildlife Wander: A great family-friendly adventure, the Castle Espie Wildlife Wander will lead you around a wetland area that boasts beautiful views and a variety of wildlife. The paths here are laid back and well-maintained, making the route suitable for all ages.
- Benone Strand Walk: If you are looking for a fantastic coastal walking route, then the Benone Strand Walk is a great option. Beautiful views across the water and a variety of wildlife, such as porpoises and seals, await on this lovely beach adventure.
- Fairhead Circular Walk: A rugged coastal adventure along the north edge of Northern Ireland, the Fairhead Circular Walk will see you traverse the terrain along one of the largest rock walls in Northwest Europe.
- Gosford Forest Park Blue Path: Featuring beautiful views of a 19th Century castle, this walk will lead you around a charming woodland area along well-maintained pathways that are suitable for all ages and skill levels.
- Portglenone Forest Walk: Another charming adventure in the woodlands of Northern Ireland, the Portglenone Forest Walk will allow you to experience some beautiful scenery along the banks of the River Bann that is surrounded with some ancient trees.
- Mussenden Temple Walk: A fantastic walking route for those who enjoy history and stunning views, the Mussenden Temple Walk will take you to this striking cliffside building, before looping around the grounds of Downhill House.
- Silent Valley Reservoir Walk: If you are looking to take in some spectacular mountain views, then you will be sure to enjoy the Silent Valley Reservoir Walk. This trail will expose you to a beautiful stretch of forest, before walking along a reservoir that is surrounded by rugged mountain peaks.
- Slieve Binnian Summit Tor and North Tor Circular Walk: This amazing trail offers a great chance to get up into the Mourne Mountains for some exceptional views. There is some rough terrain along the way that will provide a bit of a challenge, but the scenery and overall experience are well worth the effort.
- Castle Ward Hoof Trail: Another great walking adventure around Castle Ward, the Hoof trail will still allow you to take in the amazing historical sites and filming locations for Game of Thrones, albeit on a longer route that will reveal more of the surrounding landscape.
- Drum Manor Walk: This is a short adventure that will take you through some of the beautiful forest landscapes of County Tyrone and expose you to some historical ruins. The easy-going terrain and picturesque scenery makes this a great adventure for the whole family, and the ruins of Drum Manor are fascinating for anyone with an interest in history.
- Glenariff Forest Park Waterfall Trail: Featuring stunning views of the Ess-na-Larach and Ess-na-Crub waterfalls, and a beautifully scenic woodland setting, the Glenariff Forest Park Waterfall Trail is a great alternative to some of the other Glenariff routes already on this list.
- Colin Glen Forest Park Walk: The Colin Glen Forest Park Walk is a lovely adventure in Belfast that is suitable for the entire family thanks to its laid back terrain. Exploring what is often referred to as the ‘green lung’ of the city, this route will take you through charming forests along the winding banks of the Colin River.
- Dunluce Castle Walk: Another amazing adventure that features ruins of an historic castle, the Dunluce Castle Walk will take you along the stunning coast for views of the sea. Although it is a scenic journey, there is an admission fee to access the site.
- Slieve Donard Trail: A stunning adventure to the top of Northern Ireland’s highest peak, the Slieve Donard Trail will provide exceptional views and unforgettable memories. This route will require a decent level of fitness, although there is a well-maintained path up to the summit.
- Rathlin Island: Church Bay Loop: This awesome adventure will see you take a ferry from Ballycastle over to Rathlin Island for a beautifully scenic journey along the coast. Once there, you can explore charming villages and make your way to a lighthouse at the southern tip of the island.
- Blackhead Walk: Another exceptional lighthouse adventure, the Blackhead Walk will lead you along the rugged coast to take in scenic seaside views and visit a beautiful 20th Century lighthouse. While this is an easy adventure, there are some sections of steep terrain that will make it a difficult route for less-mobile walkers.
When is the Best Time to Walk in Northern Ireland?
Being an island nation, the weather patterns in Northern Ireland can be unpredictable due to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. With that being said, the weather is fairly temperate year-round and will not see much in terms of extremes. Although the summer months are the most popular and will see larger volumes of tourists, the best time to visit Northern Ireland is in the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-October) seasons. These windows are usually fairly warm and dry, with blossoming plantlife dotting the landscape in the spring and the changing leaves of autumn making for beautiful scenery.
The Best Walking Regions in Northern Ireland
As a country, Northern Ireland is blessed with a variety of terrain types and picturesque landscapes that make it ideal for a fun and engaging outdoor adventure. Among the best regions for walking are the rugged interior of the Sperrins Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the breathtaking Antrim Coast and Glens AONB, the Causeway Coast AONB that features the iconic Giant’s Causeway, and the mountainous southern reaches of the Mourne Mountain Range that is home to the country’s highest peak: Slieve Donard.
Other Outdoor Activities in Northern Ireland
Being an island nation, the weather patterns in Northern Ireland can be unpredictable due to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. With that being said, the weather is fairly temperate year-round and will not see much in terms of extremes. Although the summer months are the most popular and will see larger volumes of tourists, the best time to visit Northern Ireland is in the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-October) seasons. These windows are usually fairly warm and dry, with blossoming plantlife dotting the landscape in the spring and the changing leaves of autumn making for beautiful scenery.
The Best Walking Regions in Northern Ireland
As a country, Northern Ireland is blessed with a variety of terrain types and picturesque landscapes that make it ideal for a fun and engaging outdoor adventure. Among the best regions for walking are the rugged interior of the Sperrins Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the breathtaking Antrim Coast and Glens AONB, the Causeway Coast AONB that features the iconic Giant’s Causeway, and the mountainous southern reaches of the Mourne Mountain Range that is home to the country’s highest peak: Slieve Donard.
Other Outdoor Activities in Northern Ireland
While there are countless walking routes that can be explored in Northern Ireland, the country also boasts a wide variety of other outdoor activities that will allow you to take in the natural beauty of the landscape. If you are looking for a memorable way to experience this beautiful place, try rock climbing along the rugged coastal terrain and exploring the beaches while spotting wildlife, or biking along the many trails that showcase the forests and undulating landscape of the interior. Horseback riding is also a great option to make your way around Northern Ireland, as are canoeing and kayaking the country’s many waterways. If you are wanting to complement your walking adventure with some other activities, you can rest assured that there are plenty of options available to do so.
Unforgettable Adventure Tours in Northern Ireland
Planning an amazing walking excursion in Northern Ireland can be a fun and exciting process that allows you to take in the scenery and highlights that you want to experience; however, it can also be a daunting challenge if you aren’t sure where to start. If you would like to experience the rich history and breathtaking natural landscapes of Northern Ireland, but want to leave the logistics and planning to professional outdoors enthusiasts, check out these once in a lifetime Northern Ireland adventure tours.
Frequently Asked Questions About Northern Ireland
Is Ireland or Northern Ireland a part of the United Kingdom?
While Ireland became a republic in 1949, Northern Ireland still remains a part of the United Kingdom.
What food is Northern Ireland famous for?
In addition to the classic Irish breakfast, Northern Ireland is famous for soda bread, Irish stew, oysters, Kearney blue cheese, and of course, whiskey.
What is the most visited place in Northern Ireland?
The Giant’s Causeway is the most visited tourist attraction in Northern Ireland, seeing nearly 1 million visitors per year.
Find other spectacular walking regions in the United Kingdom
Best Hikes in Northern Ireland
Rostrevor Forest and Slievebane Circular Walk
The Rostrevor Forest and Slievebane Circular Walk is a fun woodland adventure that features a good amount of elevation gain and some nice views through the tree cover. While out walking the trail, you will make your way through the tranquil expanse of Rostrevor Forest, climbing up the hillside for some nice views of the nearby glacial fjord of Carlingford Lough. This trail isn’t overly long, but there are some challenging sections that will be sure to make you break a sweat.
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Ballintoy Harbour to White Park Bay Walk
The Ballintoy Harbour to White Park Bay Walk is a quick and easy excursion that will take you along the coast for lovely views of the sea. While out on the trail, you will make your way along the rugged coast to take in views overlooking the sandy expanse of White Park Bay, before retracing your steps back to the historic harbour that was used as a filming location for the HBO series Game of Thrones. This is a pleasant adventure that can be enjoyed by all ages and skill levels.
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Belfast Castle Estate Walk
The Belfast Castle Estate Walk is a great family-friendly adventure in Belfast, Northern Ireland that will allow you to explore the grounds of a Victorian era estate. While out walking the trail, you will pass by the 19th Century Belfast Castle and explore the forested estate along the slopes of Cavehill. Beautiful views of Belfast and the Belfast Lough await on this short journey on the edge of the city.
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Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge Walk
The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge Walk is a popular adventure along the Antrim Coast of Northern Ireland that offers breathtaking views along the coast. While out walking the trail, you will make your way along the rugged coastal terrain and descend a series of stairs, before crossing the rope bridge over to the small island. Those looking to complete this trail should take note that there is a fee of £5 to cross the bridge.
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Ormeau Park and Lagan River Circular Walk
The Ormeau Park and Lagan River Circular Walk is a fantastic urban walking route in Belfast that will take you along the banks of a winding river for a nice afternoon on the trail. While out walking this route, you will pass through Ormeau Park and follow the winding banks of the Lagan River, passing by beautiful city greenspaces like the Botanical Gardens and Lagan Meadows in the process. This is a great route for those days when you want to get out and appreciate nature without actually having to leave the city.
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The Priest’s Chair via Craig-Na-Shoke Walk
The Priest’s Chair via Craig-Na-Shoke Walk is an exceptional walking route in the Sperrins AONB of Northern Ireland that will take you uphill for some amazing views of the surrounding landscape. While out walking the trail, you will climb uphill through the Moydamlaght Forest Park and traverse the rugged terrain of Craig-Na-Shoke, also known as Eagle’s Rock, before circling through Glenshane Forest to visit the Priest’s Chair. This is a challenging route with little in the way of trail markers, so make sure to bring a GPS to stay on the correct route.
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Giant’s Gate and Causeway Coast Circular Walk
The Giant’s Gate and Causeway Coast Circular Walk is an amazing adventure in Northern Ireland that will expose you to spectacular coastal views at the country’s most popular tourist attraction. While out walking the trail, you will make your way downhill to pass through the Giant’s Gate and experience the beauty of the Giant’s Causeway, before passing by the Giant’s Boot to climb uphill along the Shepherd’s Steps. This is a breathtaking route that you definitely won’t want to miss out on if you find yourself in Northern Ireland.
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Torr Head Walk
The Torr Head Walk is an exceptional, if short, walking route in Northern Ireland that will produce stunning views along the coast. While out walking the trail, you will climb gently uphill to a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the sea and the coast of Scotland a mere 19.3 km away. This gorgeous adventure is suitable for all ages and skill levels; however, you should keep an eye on children and dogs due to the steep drop offs.
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Kinbane Castle and Kinbane Head Walk
The Kinbane Castle and Kinbane Head Walk is an amazing outdoor experience in County Antrim, Northern Ireland that features gorgeous coastal terrain and interesting historical sites. While out walking the trail, you will walk along the coast and navigate several series of stairs in order to visit the ruins of the 16th Century Kinbane Castle. While this route is short and relatively easy, the stairs along the trail will likely present difficulties for less mobile walkers.
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Slieve Muck and Carn Mountain via Ott Track
The Slieve Muck and Carn Mountain via Ott Track Walk is a spectacular journey that will lead you through the Mourne Mountains for some panoramic views over the rugged Northern Ireland landscape. While out walking the trail, you will make your way along a well-trodden path that climbs up the steep mountainside to produce exceptional views from the summits of Carn Mountain and Slieve Muck. Sections of this route are a bit challenging; however, the sweeping views across nearby peaks are well worth the effort.
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Cumber Forest Park Circular Walk
Walking the Cumber Forest Park Circular Trail is a great family-friendly experience in Northern Ireland that will allow you to explore both the forest and riverside. While out on the trail, you will loop around the forest in order to walk along the banks of the scenic Faughan and Glenrandel rivers. This is a wonderful route if you aren’t concerned with completing a longer route and simply want to immerse yourself in nature.
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Binevenagh Forest Circular Walk
The Binevenagh Forest Circular Walk is an exceptional walking route in the Binevenagh Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that will take you uphill through the forest to visit a hilltop lake. While out walking the trail, you will climb uphill through dense stretches of the Binevenagh Forest, traversing the rugged terrain of Binevenagh Peak to reach a lake of the same name where you will enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Terrain along this route can be a bit uneven under foot, so be sure to wear proper walking boots with good support.
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Corry’s Craig Walk
The Corry’s Craig Walk is a fun adventure for the entire family that will see you climb uphill for some beautiful views across County Down, Northern Ireland. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill through a mixture of open hillside and brush in order to reach a scenic viewpoint at a rocky outcrop known as Corry’s Craig. This is a fantastic walk if you are just looking to reconnect with nature, without the hassle of straying too far from town.
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Crawfordsburn and Bangor Walk
The Crawfordsburn and Bangor Walk is a spectacular adventure in County Down, Northern Ireland that takes you along the coast for beautiful views of the water. While out walking the trail, you will walk along Crawfordsburn Beach, before climbing slightly uphill for an elevated view of Belfast Lough as you work towards the terminus of the route in Bangor. This is a fantastic route if you enjoy relaxing strolls with beautiful seaside views.
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Slieve Gallion Walk
The Slieve Gallion Walk is an exceptional route in Northern Ireland that will see you traverse a variety of terrain types in order to reach a stunning viewpoint over the surrounding landscape. While out walking the trail, you will make your way through the atmospheric Iniscarn Forest, climbing uphill across the two summits of Slieve Gallion for some commanding views of the countryside. Portions of this walk can be a bit of a challenge; however, the amazing views along the trail are well worth the effort.
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Slemish Path
The Slemish Path is a short adventure in County Antrim, Northern Ireland that will take you uphill for views across the surrounding landscape. While out walking the trail, you will climb the steep slopes of Slemish and enjoy views of nearby hills, before looping around the peak on the descent. This route may be short, but it features steep and rugged terrain that will require proper walking footwear.
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Silent Valley Reservoir Circular Walk
The Silent Valley Reservoir Circular Walk is a tough journey in the Mourne & Slieve Croob Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that will lead you through the varied terrain surrounding the Silent Valley Reservoir. While out walking the trail, you will walk north along the water’s edge until you reach the Ben Crom Reservoir, at which point you will head to the southwest to traverse the undulating terrain that includes the summit of Slievenaglogh. Route finding can be a bit difficult in some areas, as the trail is slightly overgrown, so be sure to bring a GPS.
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Old Railway Line Walk
The Old Railway Line Walk is a fun, family-friendly adventure in Donaghadee, Northern Ireland that will take you along a repurposed rail line. While out on the trail, you will leave behind the shores of Coalpit Bay and make your way west past Hunts Park, before retracing your steps along the trail. This is fantastic route to get out for a spot of exercise or to take the dogs on a quick walk.
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Slieve Bearnagh via Trassey Track Circular Walk
The Slieve Bearnagh via Trassey Track Circular Walk is an exceptional route that will lead you uphill for stunning views across Northern Ireland. While out on the trail, you will traverse the open countryside and make your way into the Mourne Mountains, traversing the summits of Slieve Bearnagh, Slieve Meelmore, and Slieve Meelbeg, before descending the mountainside on the return leg. This walk is challenging in certain areas; however, the views are outstanding and are well worth the required effort.
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North Down Coastal Path
The North Down Coastal Path may be a bit on the long side, but it is a beautifully scenic adventure with stunning views across the water. While out on the trail, you will walk along the shores of Belfast Lough, enjoying the beautiful coastal views as you cover the distance between Holywood and Orlock Point. This is a one-way trail, so be sure to arrange a pick up or plan on utilizing transit for the return leg of your adventure, lest you be forced to walk the entire distance of the trail again!