The best walks and hikes in Newtownabbey

Newtownabbey offers a wide selection of routes, with over 270 hiking trails to explore. This includes a diverse range of options, from easy strolls through woodlands to more challenging ascents with panoramic views.

The region features diverse terrain, blending suburban areas with open spaces, parks, and forests. You'll find trails winding through mature woodlands, alongside tranquil rivers like the Six Mile Water and Threemilewater, and around scenic lakes such as Straid Dam and Hydepark Dam. For those seeking elevation, there are modest hills like Slievetrue and Carnmoney Hill, offering rewarding views.

Yes, Newtownabbey has many family-friendly trails. A great option is the Causeway Coast and Glens - 7 - Woodburn Forest, an easy 6 km route through peaceful woodlands. The Loughshore Trail, starting at Whiteabbey Green, also offers an easy, picturesque coastal walk suitable for families, with attractions like Hazelbank Park along the way.

Many of Newtownabbey's trails are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Woodburn Forest loop from Slievetrue is an easy 6.6 km circular route. Another popular choice is the View of Belfast Harbour – View of the Valley loop from Belfast Castle, an easy 3.9 km loop offering scenic vistas.

Yes, Woodburn Forest is known for its peaceful woodlands and features a waterfall, making it a lovely spot for a hike. The Causeway Coast and Glens - 7 - Woodburn Forest route is an excellent way to experience this area.

Newtownabbey offers several rewarding viewpoints. Slievetrue, the highest point, provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside. Carnmoney Hill and Collinward also offer unique perspectives. Additionally, trails near Belfast Castle, such as the View of the Valley – View of Belfast Harbour loop from Belfast Castle, offer stunning views of Belfast Harbour and the valley.

Many of Newtownabbey's parks and trails are dog-friendly, though it's always best to check local signage for specific rules regarding leashes. Areas like Woodburn Forest and the various local parks generally welcome dogs, providing ample space for walks.

Newtownabbey caters to various ability levels. Out of over 270 routes, 180 are rated as easy, 84 as moderate, and 7 as difficult. This means you can find everything from leisurely strolls through parks to more demanding ascents on hills like Cave Hill.

The routes in Newtownabbey are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, the peaceful woodlands, and the rewarding views from the hills.

For those seeking a longer and more challenging experience, the Cave Hill – Belfast Castle loop from Church of the Holy Evangelists is a moderate 14.8 km route with significant elevation gain, offering a more strenuous adventure and breathtaking views.

Newtownabbey is home to several reservoirs, including Straid Dam and Hydepark Dam. The Woodburn Forest – Woodburn Reservoir loop from Anglers Car Park is a moderate 8.7 km route that takes you around Woodburn Reservoir, offering scenic views of the water.

If you're looking for a shorter, easy walk, the Forest Dirt Bike Trail loop from North Woodburn Reservoir is an easy 3.8 km route. Another excellent choice is the View of Belfast Harbour – View of the Valley loop from Belfast Castle, which is 3.9 km and offers lovely views.