Walks around Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland is a walker’s paradise with terrain to suit all abilities. Take to the trails and discover the mountains, waterfalls, forests and coastlines of our captivating countryside.
Slieve Binnian - County Down
Severe weathering during the last ice age sculpted Slieve Binnian into the most distinctive peak in Northern Ireland’s Mourne Mountains. Follow the 100-year-old Mourne Wall uphill and be rewarded with a stunning panorama of the surrounding mountain. On a clear, it’s possible to see the Isle of Man out to sea and the Wicklow Mountains beyond Dublin.
Tollymore Forest Park, River Trail - County Down
Climb through lush woodland along the Shimna River, past the Hermitage and on to Parnell’s Bridge. View the Game of Thrones filming locations and as you walk through the forest imagine being part of the Stark family making your way to the North towards Winterfell.
Carnfunnock Biodiversity Walk - County Antrim
Explore Carnfunnock Country Park in County Antrim with the Biodiversity Walk, one of many trails in the area. The walk includes a giant bird table and outdoor gym equipment and is suitable for people with limited mobility.
Glenariff Forest Park - County Antrim
The Rivers Glenariff and Inver have cut right through this spectacular steep sided gorge the Queen of the Glens. This short circular gorge walk, abound with tumbling rivers and waterfalls, navigates through a lush valley. Damp conditions are ideal for ferns, mosses and liverworts with several rare species present.
Cave Hill Country Park – Co Antrim
Visit Cave Hill Country Park and enjoy panoramic views across Belfast from vantage points on the hillside. Park features include Cave Hill Adventurous Playground, archaeological sites, an eco-trail, gardens, orienteering routes, scenic views and waymarked walking trails suitable for casual walkers or serious ramblers. Its most famous feature, known locally as Napoleon's Nose, is believed to have been the inspiration for Jonathan Swift's novel, Gulliver's Travels.
Gortin Glen – County Tyrone
Magnificent Japanese larch give a ‘cathedral-like’ impression to anyone arriving at Gortin Glen Forest Park. The waterfall and rest point on the Ladies View Trail are well worth the steep walk up to them. Beyond the waterfall, walk along a path that weaves through mature Sitka spruce trees. There is a deer enclosure only a short walk from the main car park, take the opportunity to see the small herd of Sika deer.
Mussenden Temple & Downhill Demense – County Derry
Enjoy the wild and dramatic headland of Downhill Estate. Take in fabulous views that stretch over the whole of the North Coast and open windswept cliff top walks, it's not surprising that the estate is part of the Binevenagh Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is a well-known icon.
Cuilcagh Boardwalk – County Fermanagh
Cuilcagh, is home to Northern Ireland's very own stairway to heaven . The route meanders through one of the largest expanses of blanket bog in Northern Ireland, traversing over tracks, boardwalk and a staircase. A steep climb is required to reach the viewing platform which provides breath taking views of the surrounding low lands.
Oxford Island – County Armagh
Oxford Island National Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife. Visitors can explore a range of habitats from woodlands to reedbeds. The trail also takes in Kinnego Marina, from here the visitor can enjoy a boat trip around the secluded bays and islands.
Mount Stewart Red Squirrel Trail - County Down
Make your way through the gate into the formal gardens, pass the Sunken Garden and use the stone steps to make your way down into the Italian Garden. Walk straight ahead towards the black and gold metal gate which brings you into the Lily Wood. The area is popular with red squirrels, buzzards and woodpeckers, and in spring the countryside blooms with wildflowers.
