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
Newcastle Beach Walk
The Newcastle Beach Walk is an intermediate length walking route in Northern Ireland that will take you along the coast for some stunning views of the Irish Sea. While out walking the trail, you will traverse the sandy expanse of the Newcastle and Murlough beaches, before looping around for a return along the Ballybannon River. This is a lovely seaside adventure that is suitable for the whole family.
User Ratings
Mullaghcarn and Gortin Forest Walk
The Mullaghcarn and Gortin Forest Walk is an amazing adventure in the Sperrins Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that will lead you through a variety of terrain types for some scenic views. While out walking the trail, you will climb uphill through the Gortin Glen Forest Park to reach the summit of Mullaghcarn, before traversing the undulating terrain on the way to the summit of Slieveard. Make sure to wear proper walking boots for this adventure in order to combat the steep and often muddy terrain.
User Ratings
Divis Mountain Heath and Ridge Trail
Walking the Divis Mountain Heath and Ridge Trail is a fantastic outdoor excursion that will see you climb up the mountainside for views of the surrounding area. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill and loop around the summit of Divis, enjoying a commanding sightline that overlooks Belfast and the waters of Belfast Lough. This route can be a bit rugged at times; however, the views are absolutely worth the effort.
User Ratings
Whyte Estate Boundary Trail
The Whyte Estate Boundary Trail is a short adventure in Loughbrickland, Northern Ireland that will see you traverse the grounds of an estate that contains several historical sites. While out on the trail, you will make your way through charming woodlands and open fields to pass by the ruins of Johnston’s Fort and the Coolnacran Ringfort. This is a great walk for anyone that enjoys nature and local history.
User Ratings
Slieve Croob Walk
The Slieve Croob Walk is a stunning route in the Mourne Mountains that will provide gorgeous views of the surrounding area. While out on the trail, you will climb up the slopes of this small peak and enjoy a commanding sightline that sweeps across nearby mountains and includes Scotland and the Isle of Man on a clear day. For the small amount of effort required, this truly is an amazing walk.
User Ratings
Bloody Bridge River via Brandy Pad Loop
The Bloody Bridge River via Brandy Pad Loop is an awesome trail in Northern Ireland that will take you uphill for views of the Irish Sea. While out walking the trail, you will climb up the rugged hillside along the banks of Bloody Bridge River, before looping around the hillside for stunning views of the surrounding terrain and water. Good walking boots are recommended, as there is a fair amount of rocky and uneven terrain along this route.
User Ratings
The Robbers Table Walk
The Robbers Table Walk is an excellent adventure in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland that will take you across a hill known as The Robbers Table. While out walking the trail, you will complete a brief section of road walking, before traversing the open countryside on the way to the hilltop. As part of this walk passes through a farmyard, it is not a suitable trail for dogs.
User Ratings
Divis via Ridge Circular Trail
The Divis via Ridge Circular Trail is an exceptional walking route near Belfast that will lead you up to a summit viewpoint for views over the city. While out walking the trail, you will climb up the mountainside to reach the summit of Divis, where you will enjoy a commanding sightline that sweeps across Belfast and the Belfast Lough. While there is a moderate degree of uphill walking involved in this route, you will be hard pressed to find better views in the area.
User Ratings
Redburn Country Park Circular Walk
The Redburn Country Park Circular Walk is an excellent adventure outside of Holywood, Northern Ireland that passes through a beautiful stretch of woodland terrain. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill through the forest of the Redburn Country Park and enjoy some nice views overlooking Belfast Harbour. Despite the relatively short overall length, there are some steep sections along this trail, so be sure to come for a workout!
User Ratings
The Ness Wood Circular Walk
The Ness Wood Circular Walk is an amazing woodland excursion in Northern Ireland that will allow you to explore a peaceful forest with a charming riverside setting. While out on the trail, you will traverse the forest pathways and follow along the winding banks of the Burntollet River, before taking in the views of the Ness Waterfall. There are some steep sections along this trail; however, it is an excellent option for a fun family adventure.
User Ratings
Belfast Castle and Ben Madigan Circular Walk
The Belfast Castle and Ben Madigan Circular Walk is a fun and beautifully scenic adventure that visits a number of different highlights and produces beautiful views of Belfast. While out walking the trail, you will pass by Belfast Castle and the Belfast Zoo, before climbing uphill to the top of Cave Hill - historically known as Ben Madigan - for sweeping views of the area. There is a bit of uphill walking involved in this adventure, but it is perfectly suited for the whole family.
User Ratings
Giant’s Ring Circular Walk
The Giant’s Ring Circular Walk is a quick and easy adventure towards the southern end of Belfast that will take you to a unique historical site. While out walking the trail, you will make your way along the River Lagan and cut across the open countryside to reach the Giant’s Ring, an ancient monument that dates to 2700 BCE during the Neolithic Period. This is a fantastic adventure that can be done with the entire family.
User Ratings
Ballygilbert Church to Helen’s Bay Beach Walk
The Ballygilbert Church to Helen’s Bay beach Walk is a pleasant adventure in County Down that will take you past historical sites for views along the coast. While out walking the trail, you will follow along a tree lined path and make your way around Grey Point Fort to walk along the coast and take in views of Belfast Lough. This is an excellent walk to enjoy some seaside views on the weekend.
User Ratings
Gortin Glen Walk
The Gortin Glen Walk is a quick and fairly easy adventure in County Tyrone Northern Ireland that will expose you to some of the picturesque forests of the region. While out walking the trail, you will climb uphill through peaceful swathes of woodland terrain and take in scenic views of the surrounding landscape, allowing you to disconnect with the outside world and reconnect with nature. The thick woodlands along this trail are an excellent way to get a bit of peace and quiet on a weekend morning.
User Ratings
Camlough Mountain Walk
The Camlough Mountain Walk is a beautifully scenic adventure in Northern Ireland that will see you climb up to a mountain summit for views of the surrounding landscape. While out walking the trail, you will make your way up the slopes of Camlough Mountain, traversing patches of woodland and rugged, heather-covered mountainside to gain an amazing perspective of the undulating landscape of Northern Ireland. There are certainly some steep sections along this trail; however, the beautiful views will more than make up for any physical discomfort felt along the trail.
User Ratings
Black Mountain Walk
The Black Mountain Walk is an excellent adventure near Belfast that won’t require too much effort, but will still produce some amazingly scenic views. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill towards the summit of Black Mountain, where you will enjoy a commanding view that overlooks the city of Belfast and Belfast Lough. This is a great weekend excursion that the entire family will enjoy.
User Ratings
Lough Fea Walk
The Lough Fea Walk is an easy-going family adventure in the Sperrins Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Northern Ireland that will provide some lovely views of the water. While out walking the trail, you will meander along the forested shores of a woodland lake and take in the beautiful views across its calm surface. This is an excellent walk to relax and reconnect with the outdoors.
User Ratings
University Trail
Walking the University Trail is a laid back experience in Coleraine, Northern Ireland that will allow you to explore the landscape along the edge of the Ulster University campus. While out on the trail, you will follow along a forested path that borders some of the sports facilities for the university, while enjoying some scenic views of the surrounding landscape. This is a fun adventure that is perfectly suited for all skill levels and makes for a great study break.
User Ratings
Blue Quarry to Doan Walk
The Blue Quarry to Doan Walk is a rugged adventure in the Mourne and Slieve Croob AONB in Northern Ireland that will lead you up into the Mourne Mountains. While out walking the trail, you will climb uphill along some challenging terrain to reach the summit of Doan, where you will enjoy exceptional views across the surrounding landscape. Terrain along this trail is rocky, rugged, and often muddy, which will require proper walking boots to safely traverse.
User Ratings
Cregagh Glen and Lisnabreeny Walk
The Cregagh Glen and Lisnabreeny Walk is a great family-friendly adventure in Northern Ireland that will take you uphill for some beautifully scenic views. While out on the trail, you will make your way through the woodland expanse of Cregagh Glen, before climbing uphill to reach Lisnabreeny Rath and enjoy some scenic views of Belfast. This is a great route to explore the beautiful landscapes and local history on the edge of the city.