4.4
(180)
3,973
hikers
18
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Malone Upper offer access to green spaces and riverside paths within the Lagan Valley Regional Park area. The terrain typically features gentle elevations, woodlands, and open parklands, suitable for various activity levels. These routes often follow the River Lagan, providing scenic views and opportunities to explore local nature reserves and historic sites. The area is characterized by a mix of urban parkland and natural riverine landscapes, making it accessible for families.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
3.7
(6)
79
hikers
3.99km
01:02
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
48
hikers
3.41km
00:54
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(2)
7
hikers
7.41km
01:56
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
59
hikers
7.19km
01:53
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(2)
57
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Cycle and pedestrian bridge over the Lagan
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The bridge is named after Captain John Shaw of Oliver Cromwell's army, who built an oak bridge here in 1655. A stone bridge was built by Thomas Burgh in 1691, although this was destroyed by flooding, which led to it being replaced by the present bridge in 1709.
3
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Canoeing route in the whitewater rapids of the Lagan river
2
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The facility is of impressive size.
3
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The structure consists of a circular earthen ring with a diameter of 180 m and an area of 28,000 square meters, surrounded by an earthen rampart 3.5 m high. At least three of the five irregularly distributed gaps in the ring are intentional and possibly original. East of the center of the ring is a small passage grave with a westward-facing entrance.
4
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There is probably no better way to get to Belfast city centre by bike.
1
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There are over 15 family-friendly hiking trails in Malone Upper, with the majority being easy routes perfect for all ages. You'll find a great selection of paths suitable for a relaxed outing with your loved ones.
Yes, Malone Upper offers several easy circular routes ideal for families. For instance, the Riverside Circular Walk, Minnowburn provides a pleasant loop along the water, while the Giant's Ring loop — Lagan Valley offers a unique historical experience on a gentle path.
Families hiking in Malone Upper can expect a diverse range of natural beauty. The region, situated at the foothills of the Adirondacks, features smooth woods paths, thick forests, and scenic views of lakes and rivers. Trails often wind through varied topography, offering glimpses of the vast Adirondack landscape.
Absolutely! Many trails offer interesting sights. For example, the area around the Giant's Ring features the ancient Giant's Ring Megalithic Tomb. You might also encounter historical structures like Shaw's Bridge or enjoy the natural beauty of the Belfast Botanic Gardens, which are easily accessible from some routes.
The family-friendly trails in Malone Upper are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful natural settings, and the accessibility for all ages, making them perfect for a relaxing family day out.
While specific viewpoints on the immediate family-friendly trails are gentle, the broader Malone region is known for its scenic vistas. For example, the Elephant Head Trail, though slightly outside the immediate Malone Upper area, offers incredible views of Lake Titus and Titus Mountain, which could be a rewarding option for families with older children.
Many of the easy trails in Malone Upper are well-suited for toddlers and young children, especially those with minimal elevation changes and smooth surfaces. Routes like the Riverside Circular Walk are generally flat and provide a safe environment for little legs to explore.
Yes, most popular family-friendly trailheads in and around Malone Upper, particularly those within parks or designated recreational areas, offer convenient parking facilities. It's always a good idea to check specific route details for precise parking information.
Many trails in the Malone Upper area are dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry family members along. However, it's essential to keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. Always check local signage for specific rules and regulations.
Spring, summer, and autumn are all wonderful times for family hikes in Malone Upper. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers lush greenery, and autumn showcases spectacular fall foliage. Even winter can be enjoyable on groomed trails, with opportunities for snowshoeing in the wider Malone region.
Yes, the region is dotted with numerous lakes and rivers, providing scenic backdrops for hikes. The Riverside Circular Walk, Minnowburn is a prime example, offering lovely views along the water. The Malone Memorial Recreation Park also features Rotary Lake, which is a focal point for birdwatchers and offers scenic views.
For families looking for a longer walk, the Lagan Towpath and Barnett Demesne Loop offers a substantial easy route, combining riverside paths with parkland exploration. It's a great option for a more extended family adventure without significant difficulty.


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