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United Kingdom
Northern Ireland
Larne

Ballygowan

Easy hikes and walks around Ballygowan

4.7

(10)

299

hikers

20

hikes

Easy hiking trails around Ballygowan offer a diverse landscape for outdoor exploration. The region features accessible forest parks with peaceful woodlands, tranquil reservoir shorelines, and gentle rolling hills. Proximity to Strangford Lough also provides unique coastal paths and views. This varied terrain caters to different fitness levels, making it suitable for a range of hiking experiences.

Best easy hiking trails around Ballygowan

  • The most popular easy hiking route is Causeway Coast and Glens - 7 - Woodburn Forest, a…

Last updated: May 19, 2026

5.0

(2)

38

hikers

#1.

Causeway Coast and Glens - 7 - Woodburn Forest

6.01km

01:36

70m

70m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Tips from the Community

Yummy
November 1, 2025, Chaine Memorial Tower

The tower is an exact replica of an Irish round tower and is 27 m high and 7.5 m wide at the base.

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Puffin
November 1, 2025, Chaine Memorial Tower

The Chaine Memorial Tower, or "The Pencil" as it is known locally, is an impressive lighthouse made of Irish granite, built in 1887 as a memorial to James Chaine, the developer of Larne Harbour. The tower was converted into a lighthouse by the Commissioners of Irish Lights in March 1899.

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The MV Princess Victoria, completed in 1947, was one of the earliest roll-on/roll-off ferries. During a severe winter storm, the ferry sank on January 31, 1953, and 135 people lost their lives.

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Affectionately known as ‘The Pencil’ The granite tower was built in 1887 as a memorial to James Chaine, the Harbour's developer. It's an accurate replica of an Irish Round Tower and was converted into a lighthouse by the Commissioners of Irish Lights in 1899. Has stood like a sentinel over the Lough ever since.

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Woodburn Forest is a picturesque woodland area west of Carrickfergus, renowned for its diverse flora and fauna. Popular among hikers, it offers scenic trails, serene reservoirs, and abundant wildlife.

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'The Pencil' as it's known locally. Built in the 1890's as a memorial to James Chaine who developed Larne Harbour.

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Hard packed gravel through Woodburn. Suitable and fun for all bike types.

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Larne is a small town with a rich history and plenty of good cafes for a stop off.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available around Ballygowan?

There are 8 easy hiking trails specifically designed for a relaxed experience around Ballygowan. In total, the region offers over 20 hiking routes for various skill levels.

What kind of landscapes can I expect on easy hikes near Ballygowan?

Easy hikes around Ballygowan feature a diverse mix of landscapes. You'll find peaceful woodland paths, tranquil reservoir shorelines like Killylane Reservoir, and gentle rolling hills. The region's proximity to Strangford Lough also offers unique coastal paths and views.

Are there any easy circular routes in Ballygowan?

Yes, many easy trails around Ballygowan are circular. For example, the Woodburn Forest loop from Slievetrue is an easy 4.1-mile (6.6 km) path offering varied scenery. Another option is the Forest Dirt Bike Trail loop from North Woodburn Reservoir, which is 2.4 miles (3.8 km) and takes you through woodlands and alongside the reservoir.

What are some popular easy trails for families in Ballygowan?

The easy trails in Ballygowan are generally suitable for families. The Causeway Coast and Glens - 7 - Woodburn Forest route, a 3.7-mile (6.0 km) path through peaceful woodlands, is a great choice. The Comber Greenway, a traffic-free path connecting Belfast with Comber, also offers scenic views and is ideal for family walks.

Are there any viewpoints or landmarks to see on easy hikes?

Yes, several easy routes offer scenic viewpoints and access to landmarks. Killynether Wood and Scrabo Tower provide panoramic views over Strangford Lough. You can also find highlights like Woodburn Reservoir and Killylane Reservoir along various trails. Historic sites like Carrickfergus Castle and the Knockagh Monument are also nearby.

What is the typical duration for an easy hike in Ballygowan?

Easy hikes in Ballygowan typically range from 1 to 2.5 hours. For instance, the Forest Dirt Bike Trail loop from North Woodburn Reservoir can be completed in about 1 hour, while the Causeway Coast and Glens - 7 - Woodburn Forest route takes around 1 hour 36 minutes.

What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Ballygowan?

The easy trails in Ballygowan are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful woodlands, accessible paths, and varied scenery that make for enjoyable and relaxed outings.

Are there any forest parks with easy trails near Ballygowan?

Yes, Ballygowan is surrounded by accessible forest parks perfect for easy trails. Ballyboley Forest and Woodburn Forest offer extensive networks of paths through peaceful woodlands. The Woodburn Forest loop from Anglers Car Park is a great example of an easy route within these areas.

Can I find trails along reservoir shorelines?

Absolutely. Hiking around Ballygowan often includes trails along reservoir shorelines, providing tranquil settings. The Killylane Reservoir area is a notable example, offering scenic routes that sometimes form part of longer loops through nearby forests.

What is the best time of year for easy walks in Ballygowan?

Ballygowan's easy trails are enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with mild weather and beautiful seasonal colors. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter walks can be serene, though some paths might be muddy.

Are there any coastal or tidal trails suitable for easy walks?

Yes, the region's proximity to Strangford Lough provides unique coastal and tidal trails. The Rough Island loop, an easy 1.1-mile (1.8 km) tidal trail, is perfect for birdwatching and enjoying the coastal scenery, though it's important to check tide times before visiting.

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