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
Dunseverick Castle to Giant’s Causeway Walk
The Dunseverick Castle to Giant’s Causeway Walk is an exceptional trail that features stunning coastal views and interesting historical sites. While out walking the trail, you will pass by its namesake castle along the coast, before continuing along the rugged shoreline to experience the world famous Giant’s Causeway. Keep in mind that this is a one-way trail, so you will need to either double the overall distance of the route to account for the return or arrange a pickup at the end of your walk.
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Dunseverick Castle to Portbradden Harbour Walk
The Dunseverick Castle to Portbradden Harbour Walk is a beautifully scenic, albeit short, adventure in Northern Ireland that features interesting historical sites and lovely views of the coast. While out walking the trail, you will pass by the ancient Dunseverick Castle and experience the rugged terrain of the Antrim Coast, as you work your way into the charming Portbradden Harbour. Walkers should take note that this is a point-to-point trail that will require you to either retrace your steps or make travel arrangements for the return leg.
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Ballyholme Green Walk
The Ballyholme Green Walk is a fantastic route for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels that will produce beautiful views of the water. While out on the trail, you will traverse the Ballyholme Esplanade and gaze out across Belfast Lough, before making your way through the greenspace of Ballyholme Park. This is a quick and easy adventure that can be completed in no time if you find yourself in Bangor, Northern Ireland with a bit of spare time on your hands.
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Carnmoney Hill Wood Walk
The Carnmoney Hill Wood Walk is a short journey in Newtownabbey, County Antrim that will lead you uphill for some stunning views. While out on the trail, you will work your way through a beautiful stretch of forest, climbing uphill to reach a scenic viewpoint with a sightline over Belfast Lough. This is a fantastic adventure that can be enjoyed by the entire family.
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Walk to Doan Summit via Banns Road
The Walk to Doan Summit via Banns Road is a fantastic outdoor excursion in Northern Ireland that will take you up to a summit viewpoint for an exceptional sightline over the surrounding area. While out on the trail, you will follow along a quiet road that cuts across the rugged terrain of the Mourne Mountains towards Lough Shanna, where you will bring your climb to the summit of Doan. There is a moderate amount of elevation gain along the route; however, the views over the Northern Ireland landscape are spectacular.
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Wallace Park Loop
The Wallace Park Loop is a quick and easy urban adventure in Lisburn, Northern Ireland that will allow you to relax in a charming city park. While out walking the trail, you will follow along well-maintained pathways that are lined with trees and pass wide open green spaces that offer plenty of room for outdoor activities. The relatively flat terrain and easy-going nature of this walk make it a great option for the entire family.
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Shaw’s Bridge Circular Walk
The Shaw’s Bridge Circular Walk is a lovely adventure near Belfast that will allow you to explore some tranquil forests and scenic riverside areas. While out walking the trail, you will traverse some beautiful forest terrain along the banks of the River Lagan, following along the water’s edge before looping around through a mixture of tree cover and open fields. Walkers should keep in mind that this is a multi-use route that is frequented by mountain bikers, so keep an eye out and remember to respectfully share the path.
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Dunseverick Castle to Ballintoy Harbour Walk
The Dunseverick Castle to Ballintoy Harbour Walk is a great adventure in Northern Ireland for anyone that enjoys beautiful seaside views and visiting historical sites. While out walking the trail, you will pass by the cliffside ruins of Dunseverick Castle, before following along the rugged coastline to reach the harbour. Along the way, you will have ample opportunity to catch some amazing photos from scenic lookouts, making this easy-going route one that you won’t want to miss.
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Ness Waterfall Walk
The Ness Waterfall Walk is a laid back adventure just southeast of Londonderry, Northern Ireland that will expose you to a beautiful stretch of woodland landscape. While out walking the trail, you will make your way through the forest along the banks of the Burntollet River, before visiting the cascading Ness Waterfall. This easy trail is perfectly suited for a fun family walk on the weekend.
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Mill Race Trail and Antrim Circular Walk
Walking the Mill Race Trail and Antrim Circular is a great outing in Northern Ireland that will take you through town for views along the water. While out on the trail, you will pass through Antrim along the banks of Six Mile Water to arrive at the edge of Lough Neagh for some amazing views of the inland lake. This is a fantastic adventure with easy terrain that the entire family will be able to enjoy.
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Ardress House Walk
The Ardress House Walk is a quick and easy adventure in County Armagh, Northern Ireland that will take you around the grounds of an historic country house. While out on the trail, you will make your way along a lovely woodland path to take in views of the 17th Century Ardress House and its surrounding farmland. Walkers should take note that this walk does pass through a National Trust site and will require you to pay an entrance fee.
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Belvoir Park Forest Circuit
The Belvoir Park Forest Circuit is a great family-friendly adventure in southern Belfast that will expose you to a charming stretch of woodland scenery. While out walking the trail, you will make your way along forest pathways that will take you to the banks of the Lagan River for scenic views of the water. The laid back terrain and shady canopy of the forest make this a great trail for a fun family excursion on the weekend.
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Lagan Towpath Walk
The Lagan Towpath Walk is a fantastic outdoor excursion in Belfast that will take you along the banks of a winding river for some beautiful views. While out walking the trail, you will follow along the Lagan River as it takes you from Belfast to Lisburn, providing you with access to numerous city greenspaces along the way. Walkers should take note that this is a one-way trail, so be sure to either arrange a pick up or plan on using transit for the return leg of the journey.
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Drumkeeragh Forest Park Circular Walk
The Drumkeeragh Forest Park Circular Walk is an easy-going journey in the Mourne Mountains AONB that will allow you to explore a beautifully scenic swathe of woodland terrain. While out walking the trail, you will make your way along several quiet country roads, before traversing the open farmland and passing the forest. There are also additional trails inside the forest if you are looking to extend the length of your walk.
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Green Road Loop
The Green Road Loop is a nice and easy adventure in County Antrim, Northern Ireland that will allow you to explore the charming countryside. While out walking the trail, you will make your way along quiet country roads to take in the beautiful views of the farmland located south of Lisburn. This walk is certainly easy enough for a fun family walk, just be sure to keep an eye on children as there will be passing vehicles.
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Cavehill Circular Walk
The Cavehill Circular Walk is an awesome outdoor excursion in Belfast that will take you uphill through a forest for views over the city. While out walking the trail, you will take in the views of the 19th Century Belfast Caste and meander along a forest trail, before climbing to the top of Cavehill for views of Belfast and Belfast Lough. As there are several tourist attractions in the area, you might want to arrive early to secure parking and enjoy some solitude on the trail.
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Glencairn and Heath Trail
The Glencairn and Heath Trail is a great intermediate length walking adventure that will see you climb uphill around Divis Mountain for views over Belfast. While out walking the trail, you will make your way through Glencairn Park and leave the city behind as you work your way uphill for a commanding view over the surrounding city landscape. Portions of this trail can be a bit challenging with rugged terrain, so be sure to wear proper walking boots.
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Scrabo Tower via Old Belfast Road Walk
The Scrabo Tower via Old Belfast Road Walk is a quick and easy adventure in County Down that will take you uphill to an historical site with stunning views. While out walking the trail, you will walk through a stretch of light forest and climb up Scrabo Hill, where you will be met by a 19th Century lookout tower and amazing views over the surrounding landscape, including Strangford Lough. Although there are some steep climbs, this walk is perfectly suitable for a fun family adventure.
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Dundrum Coastal Path
The Dundrum Coastal Path is a laid back outdoor excursion in County Down, Northern Ireland that will take you along the edge of the water for some scenic views. While out walking the trail, you will meander along the shoreline of Dundrum Inner Bay, relaxing as you gaze out across the water and try to spot local wildlife species. There are some cyclists that also utilize this route, so be sure to keep an eye out and remember to share the path.
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Hillsborough Forest Park Lake Walk
The Hillsborough Forest Park Lake Walk is a fantastic woodland excursion that will take you around a charming lake near the Hillsborough Castle - the official residence of the British royal family when they visit Northern ireland. While out walking the trail, you will make your way along the shores of a scenic lake, before looping through the forest to explore the rest of the park. This is a great walking route that the entire family can enjoy.