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United Kingdom
Northern Ireland
Ards

Drumhirk

Easy hikes and walks around Drumhirk

4.8

(47)

420

hikers

20

hikes

Easy hiking trails around Drumhirk offer a blend of natural beauty and historical significance within County Armagh, Northern Ireland. The region features diverse landscapes, including river valleys, picturesque reservoirs, and gentle hills. Hikers can explore areas characterized by historical structures like the Tassagh Viaduct and the ancient Navan Fort, providing varied terrain for easy walks. The area also includes tranquil forest parks and demesnes with established trail networks.

Best easy hiking trails around Drumhirk

  • The most popular easy hiking route…

Last updated: July 1, 2026

5.0

(1)

43

hikers

#1.

Floodgates Walk

6.58km

01:40

10m

10m

Hike the easy Floodgates Walk in Strangford & Lecale AONB, offering 4.1 miles of scenic views over Strangford Lough and abundant wildlife.

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Easy

5.0

(1)

4

hikers

Hike through Killynether Wood and ascend to Scrabo Tower for panoramic views over Strangford Lough on this easy 2.5-mile trail.

Easy
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Hike the easy 1.2-mile Sketrick Island loop via Sketrick Castle, offering picturesque lakeside views and historic ruins in just 30 minutes.

Easy

7

hikers

1.84km

00:28

0m

0m

Hike the easy 1.1-mile Rough Island loop, a tidal trail offering birdwatching and views across Strangford Lough.

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

Grace Mulligan
October 25, 2023, Rough Island

A short stroll around Rough Island will provide you excellent views across the beautiful Strangford Lough and its shoreline. The island is a popular location for bird-watching, so don't forget to bring your binoculars, there is also a picnic area on the island, too. The island is only accessible at low tide, so knowing the tide times is essential.

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This is the tidal causeway leading to the beautiful Rough Island. The causeway becomes completely submerged during high tide, so being aware of the tide times is essential. You can check out the daily times here https://www.tideschart.com/New-Zealand/Other/Rough-Island/

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Discover this picturesque little island located on the coastline of Strangford Lough in County Down. The island is home to a magnificent castle, picnic area, and enjoyable loop walk that provides beautiful lakeside scenery.

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Sketrick Castkle is a historic landmark situated on Sketrick Island near Whiterock. The castle dates back to the 12th century and the grounds are free to explore.

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Follow this flat, paved path along the northern strand of Strangford Lough near Newtownwards. You're afforded great views out over the water and also of Scrabo Tower, which looms above the town.

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This large tower house was built in the mid 15th century and was actively involved in warfare during the 16th century. It would have originally been four storeys high with a boat bay and subterranean passage. There were four chambers at ground level, the largest had a vault built on wicker centring and two ovens. The small unlighted room could have been a lock up or treasury. The tower-house was relatively complete until half of it collapsed in a storm in 1896. Part of the bawn wall survives to the north and east of the castle.

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Daft Eddy's Restaurant / Pub is very popular with Cyclists, and is just up the hill. There is also a Car park with full facilities if you look back to the mainland just on your left.

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Scrabo Tower is an impressive 19th century folly that stands on Scrabo Hill in County Down. It is one of the most well-known landmarks in Northern Ireland. Inside the tower is an exhibition and short video explaining its history and outside the tower you can enjoy some incredible views over Strangford Lough and the surrounding countryside

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available around Drumhirk?

Drumhirk offers a good selection of easy hiking trails, with 15 routes specifically categorized as easy. These trails provide diverse experiences, from historical walks to scenic reservoir paths.

What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes around Drumhirk?

Easy hikes around Drumhirk feature varied terrain, including gentle climbs over ancient hills at places like Navan Fort, paths along picturesque reservoirs such as Seagahan Reservoir, and established trails through historical demesnes like The Palace Demesne. You'll also find routes that incorporate impressive historical structures like the Tassagh Viaduct.

Are there any historical landmarks or interesting sights along easy trails?

Yes, several easy trails offer access to significant landmarks. You can explore the ancient site of Navan Fort, walk near the impressive Tassagh Viaduct, or visit historical structures like Sketrick Castle on the Sketrick Island loop. Other notable sites include Nendrum Monastery Ruins and Kilmood Church.

Can I find trails with water features like reservoirs or rivers?

Absolutely. The region around Drumhirk features picturesque water bodies. Seagahan Reservoir is ideal for walks with expansive views, and the Floodgates Walk offers a pleasant route along a waterway. You can also find views of lakes from highlights like View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road.

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

The easy trails around Drumhirk are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.8 stars from over 40 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the blend of natural beauty and historical interest, as well as the well-maintained paths suitable for relaxed outings.

Are there any family-friendly easy walks in Drumhirk?

Many of the easy trails are suitable for families. The Sketrick Island loop via Sketrick Castle is a shorter option, perfect for a quick family outing. The Palace Demesne also offers a network of paved and gravel trails in a serene environment, ideal for walks with children.

Are easy trails around Drumhirk suitable for dogs?

Many easy trails in the Drumhirk area are dog-friendly, especially those in natural settings like Drumkeeragh Forest Park or the open spaces around Navan Fort. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash and check local regulations for specific areas, particularly around nature reserves or private lands.

Are there easy circular routes available?

Yes, there are several easy circular routes. The Sketrick Island loop via Sketrick Castle and the Rough Island loop are both excellent examples of easy circular walks, offering scenic views and manageable distances.

What are some shorter easy walks for a quick outing?

For a quick and easy outing, consider the Sketrick Island loop via Sketrick Castle, which is about 1.2 miles (2.0 km) and takes around 30 minutes. Another short option is the Rough Island loop, which is similar in length and duration.

What is the best time of year for easy hikes in Drumhirk?

The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant conditions for easy hikes around Drumhirk, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. Autumn also provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage. While winter hikes are possible, be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially wet conditions.

Are there options for parking near easy hiking trails?

Many popular hiking spots in the Drumhirk area, such as Navan Fort, The Palace Demesne, and Drumkeeragh Forest Park, typically offer designated parking facilities. For specific routes, it's advisable to check the tour details on komoot for information on starting points and parking availability.

Are there any cafes or places to eat near the easy hiking trails?

While specific cafes directly on every trail may vary, the towns and villages surrounding Drumhirk, such as Armagh city, offer various options for refreshments and meals. Locations like Navan Fort also have visitor centers that may include cafes. It's a good idea to plan your route to pass through or near these settlements if you're looking for dining options.

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