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
Hen and Cock Mountain Trail
The Hen and Cock Mountain Trail is a challenging journey in the Mourne Mountains Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that will lead you up each of these two peaks for some beautiful views. While out on the trail, you will head across the boggy, open landscape to reach the rocky summit of Cock Mountain for some incredible views, before continuing on to the lesser peak of Hen Mountain. Due to the rugged terrain along the trail, dogs are not permitted to walk this route.
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Butter Mountain Circular Walk
The Butter Mountain Circular Walk is a beautifully scenic adventure that will lead you through the rugged terrain of the Mourne Mountains AONB for views of nearby peaks and reservoirs. While out walking the trail, you will climb uphill to reach the summit of Butter Mountain, before heading downhill along the slopes of Spaltha and Spelga. This is an excellent route for those times when you want to get out into the mountains without making it an entire day affair.
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Six Mile Water River Park Circular Walk
The Six Mile Water River Park Circular Walk is a family-friendly route in Ballyclare, Northern Ireland that will take you through a beautifully scenic riverside park. While out walking the trail, you will make your way along the winding banks of Six Mile Water, before looping around the open fields and woodlands of the park on the return. The well-maintained pathways and clean greenspaces of the park make this an excellent place to spend an afternoon on the weekend.
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Braid River Path
The Braid River Path is a quick and easy adventure in Ballymena, County Antrim that will lead you along the winding banks of a river for some beautiful views. While out walking the trail, you will stroll alongside the Braid River and relax in the lovely waterside setting, as you enjoy views of the surrounding farmland. The easy-going terrain and short overall distance of this route make it suitable for walkers of all ages and skill levels.
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Ballypatrick Forest Circular Walk
The Ballypatrick Forest Circular Walk is a solid excursion in County Antrim, Northern Ireland that will lead you through a beautifully scenic swathe of woodland landscape. While out walking the trail, you will loop through a forest of mature trees and take in the views of wildlife as you traverse the undulating terrain of the surrounding area. Walkers should take note that this trail isn’t well-signed, so bring a GPS in order to stay on the correct path.
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Breen Oakwood and Moyle Way Trail
The Breen Oakwood and Moyle Way Trail is a pleasant journey in County Antrim, Northern Ireland that will lead you through some undulating forest terrain. While out walking the trail, you will explore a beautiful stretch of woodland landscape and climb up the lower slopes of Croaghan for some nice views of the surrounding area. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes for this route, as there is a variety of terrain along the route.
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Argory House Walk
The Argory House Walk is a short but fun outing in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland that will take you around the estate grounds of a mansion built during the 1820s. While out walking the trail, you will take in the views of the historic house and make your way along the winding banks of the River Blackwater, before looping back through the woodland landscape. This is an excellent walk for anyone with an interest in nature or beautiful historic buildings.
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Beaghmore Stone Circles Walk
The Beaghmore Stone Circles Walk is a great route in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland that will take you through the Sperrins AONB to visit a fascinating historical site. While out walking the trail, you will utilize quiet roads in order to loop around the countryside and visit a series of early Bronze Age stone circles and cairns that were discovered in the late 1930s. As previously mentioned, this route follows along several roadways, so make sure to exercise caution if walking with children or dogs.
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Seskinore Forest Walk
The Seskinore Forest Walk is a pleasant woodland adventure near Omagh, Northern Ireland that will allow you to relax and enjoy the outdoors. While out walking the trail, you will make your way through dense stretches of forest and several open fields, before passing by what is left of the McClintock Estate. While this is an easy-going walk, you will definitely want to wear proper walking boots to better traverse the uneven and often muddy forest terrain.
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Goles Forest Circular Walk
The Goles Forest Circular Walk is a fun journey in the Sperrins AONB of Northern Ireland that will lead you uphill through the forest for views of the valley. While out on the trail, you will cross over the Glenelly River and make your way up the hillside, traversing the woodland terrain while taking in the intermittent views across the Glenelly Valley. This may be a fairly short adventure; however, there is a long and steady incline at the beginning of the walk that will be sure to make you break a sweat!
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Cranny Falls Walk
The Cranny Falls Walk is an amazing adventure in County Antrim, Northern Ireland that will see you traverse the countryside to visit a stunning waterfall. While out walking the trail, you will leave the town of Carnlough behind and make your way slightly uphill, following the banks of the Carnlough River until you arrive at the serene location of Cranny Falls. This is an excellent trail with fairly easy to traverse terrain, making it suitable for all ages and skill levels.
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Ben Crom Summit via Ott Track Walk
The Ben Crom Summit via Ott Track Walk is a fun, and at times challenging, adventure that will lead you through a variety of rugged terrain to reach a beautifully scenic summit viewpoint. While out on the trail, you will traverse marshlands and the undulating landscape of the Mourne Mountains, before climbing up the slopes of Ben Crom for views overlooking the Silent Valley. Due to the rough and wet nature of the landscape, it is recommended to wear water-resistant walking boots and bring poles for stability.
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Scrabo Hill via Killynether Wood Walk
The Scrabo Hill via Killynether Wood Walk is a family-friendly adventure just to the southwest of Newtownards, Northern Ireland that will take you uphill to a 19th Century hilltop tower. While out walking the trail, you will make your way through the serene woodland atmosphere of Killynether Wood, climbing uphill towards Scrabo Tower to be greeted with stunning views overlooking Strangford Lough. This is a perfect route for a relaxing weekend adventure.
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Dundrum Castle Walk
The Dundrum Castle Walk is a short but fascinating adventure in County Down that will lead you around some historical ruins. While out walking the trail, you will make your way through a pleasant stretch of woodland terrain, before looping around the ruins of Dundrum Castle that date back to the beginning of the 13th Century. This is an excellent family-friendly walk that is well-suited for anyone with an interest in history.
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Craigavon Lakes Circular Walk
The Craigavon Lakes Circular Walk is a beautifully scenic adventure on the edge of town that will lead you around several woodland lakes. While out walking the trail, you will head through the forest and cross over a railway line, enjoying the views across the water as you walk along the shores of the Craigavon Lakes. This is a great walking route where you can enjoy nature without leaving town.
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Helen’s Tower Walk
The Helen’s Tower Walk is a quick adventure in County Down that will lead you slightly uphill to an historic tower. While out walking the trail, you will make your way through the forest and pass by Tower Lake, before making your way to the 19th Century Helen’s Tower that was built by the 5th Baron of Duffern and Claneboy. This is a great walking route that doesn’t take up too much time and is well-suited for anyone with historical interests.
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Glencairn Park and Ballygomartin River Walk
The Glencairn Park and Ballygomartin River Walk is a fantastic adventure on the edge of Belfast that will take you uphill for views of the city. While out walking the trail, you will make your way through the lovely expanse of Glencairn Park and follow along the banks of the Ballygomartin River, before climbing uphill to a viewpoint overlooking Belfast and Belfast Lough. This is an awesome walk that the entire family will be able to enjoy.
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McArt’s Fort Loop
The McArt’s Fort Loop is a fantastic outdoor excursion on the western edge of Belfast that will lead you uphill for some stunning views of the city. While out on the trail, you will pass by the Belfast Zoo and the ancient hilltop fortification known as McArt’s Fort, before reaching the summit of Cavehill which offers views of Belfast and Belfast Castle. The close proximity of this trail to a variety of popular attractions makes this a great walk to kill a few hours on the weekend.
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Barnett Demesne Walk
The Barnett Demesne Walk is a lovely adventure in Belfast, Northern Ireland that will lead you around the grounds of an historic estate with riverside views. While out walking the trail, you will pass by the stunning 19th Century Malone House, before exploring the banks of the Lagan River and its surrounding woodland landscape. This walk is perfect for anyone with an interest in the history of Belfast or those looking to simply enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.
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Mullach Aise and Cnoc an Bhearnais Walk
The Mullach Aise and Cnoc an Bhearnais walk is an exceptional, if difficult, walking route in the Sperrins AONB of Northern Ireland that will take you up two mountains for some amazing views of the surrounding landscape. While out walking the trail, you will climb uphill alongside the banks of Merlane Burn to reach the summit of Cnoc an Bhearnais, before making your way up the taller summit of Mullach Aise. This is a rough and rugged adventure that should only be undertaken by seasoned walkers.