Easy hikes and walks around Kilroot
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Easy hiking trails around Kilroot offer diverse landscapes for outdoor exploration. The region features a blend of coastal views, woodland paths, and historical sites. Trails often provide glimpses of Belfast Lough and access to areas with varied flora and fauna. The terrain is generally gentle, making it suitable for accessible walks.
Best easy hiking trails around Kilroot
- The most popular easy hiking route is Crom Estate Trail, a 2.5 miles (4.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 3 minutes…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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Hike the easy 2.5-mile Crom Estate Trail in Northern Ireland, enjoying Lough Erne views and historic castles in about an hour.
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
18
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
11
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Such a beautiful place to visit. Lots of wildlife and you can hear the birds tweeting away.
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Managed by the National Trust, the Crom Estate is a large nature reserve of woodlands, lake, castle ruins and islands. It is an important habitat for pine martens, bats, deer, red squirrels and butterflies. There is a coffee shop at the estate and if you fancy something different you can hire a boat to explore the lough. For more details check out the website https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/crom
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Crom Castle is situated within a 1,900 acre estate in County Fermanagh. It's an elegant 17th-century castle existing amongst a beautiful landscape of islands, woodlands, and historical ruins.
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The Crom Castle estate boathouse sits on the shore of Lough Erne below the main castle. The views out on onto the water from the boathouse are splendid, the perfect spot to pull up a picnic blanket and enjoy some relaxation.
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Built on the shores of Upper Lough Erne, Crom Castle is a stunning country estate dating back to the 17th century. The beautiful castle is set amongst 2,000 acres (809 ha) of ancient woodland and countryside which make up one of Ireland's most important conservation areas. The surrounding wetlands, grasslands and woodlands are home to a wide variety of wildlife such as deer, wagtails, and cows who have been seen to swim across the lake to graze on the islands. The castle is privately owned by the Crichton family, but is open to visitors and managed by the National Trust. There's a tearoom on-site for a cuppa and a slice of cake too.
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Set on the shores of Upper Lough Erne in County Fermanagh, Crom is one of Ireland's most important nature conservation areas. Wild deer, pine marten, red squirrels and many rare species including butterflies can all be found on the estate. Also inhabiting the surrounding area are all eight species of native bats and an outstanding array of rare lichens. The 2,000 acre demesne contains ancient woodland, tranquil islands, estate cottages and Old Crom Castle, all linked by the breathtakingly beautiful landscape designed by W.S.Gilpin in the 19th century. (https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/crom-estate-p675551)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Kilroot?
There are 8 easy hiking trails around Kilroot, all of which are suitable for beginners and those looking for a gentle outdoor experience.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes around Kilroot?
Easy hikes around Kilroot offer a diverse range of terrain. You can expect gentle coastal paths with views of Belfast Lough, serene woodland trails through areas like Woodburn Forest, and walks through historical estate grounds. The routes are generally flat or feature very gentle elevation changes, making them accessible for most.
Are there easy circular walks in Kilroot?
Yes, several easy circular walks are available. For example, the Crom Castle Boathouse – Crom Castle loop from Old Crom Castle (Ruins) is an easy 4.5-mile path, and the Old Crom Castle Ruins – Crom Estate Castle Ruins loop from Old Crom Castle (Ruins) covers 2.6 miles through historical grounds.
Are the easy hiking trails around Kilroot suitable for families?
Absolutely. The easy trails in Kilroot are well-suited for families due to their gentle terrain and manageable distances. Many routes pass through scenic woodlands or along coastal areas, offering pleasant environments for all ages. Places like Crawfordsburn Country Park and Helen's Bay Beach, while not directly on the listed routes, offer family-friendly environments nearby.
Can I bring my dog on the easy trails in Kilroot?
Many outdoor areas in Kilroot and the surrounding region are dog-friendly, especially on lead. Woodland areas like Woodburn Forest and coastal paths are generally welcoming to dogs. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, especially in nature reserves or protected areas, and ensure your dog is under control.
Are there historical sites or landmarks to see on easy walks?
Yes, Kilroot's easy walks often incorporate historical elements. You can explore the grounds around the Old Crom Castle Ruins and the Crom Estate Castle Ruins. While not directly on these specific easy routes, the impressive Carrickfergus Castle and Grey Point Fort are significant historical sites in the wider region that can be combined with other local walks.
Do any easy trails offer panoramic views?
While the listed easy trails have gentle elevations, the Kilroot region is known for rewarding hikers with brilliant panoramic views of Belfast Lough from various vantage points. Coastal walks in the area, even easy ones, often provide scenic vistas of the water and surrounding landscapes.
What do other hikers enjoy about the easy trails in Kilroot?
The easy trails in Kilroot are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 6 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the blend of coastal and woodland scenery, and the accessibility of the paths, making them perfect for a relaxing outdoor experience.
Are there options for parking near the easy trailheads?
Yes, many popular trailheads and access points for easy walks in the Kilroot area, particularly around estates, parks, and coastal areas, typically offer designated parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route details for precise parking information.
What is the best time of year for easy hikes in Kilroot?
Kilroot offers pleasant hiking conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and summer provide warmer weather and blooming flora, while autumn brings beautiful foliage. Even in winter, many easy trails remain accessible, though appropriate waterproof and warm clothing is recommended due to the coastal climate.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the easy hiking trails?
While specific cafes might not be directly on every trailhead, the town of Carrickfergus, which is very close to Kilroot, offers a good selection of cafes, pubs, and restaurants where you can refuel after your hike. Coastal towns and villages along Belfast Lough also provide various dining options.
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