The best walks and hikes around Kells

There are over 15 hiking routes available around Kells, offering a variety of experiences. These include paths along riverbanks, through dense forests, and near Lough Neagh.

Yes, Kells offers a good selection of easy hiking trails. Out of the 19 available routes, 13 are classified as easy, making them suitable for beginners or those looking for a relaxed walk. An example is the Devenagh Burn Riverbank loop from Ballymena, which is 4.1 miles (6.6 km) long and follows the river.

Many of the trails in Kells are family-friendly, particularly the easier routes that feature flat riverbank paths. These provide gentle terrain suitable for children. The Antrim Castle Gardens – The Protector of the Lough loop from Antrim, for instance, offers an engaging walk through historic gardens.

Generally, dogs are welcome on many public footpaths and trails in the Kells area. However, it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or near nature reserves, and to check specific signage for any restrictions. Please ensure you clean up after your pet.

Hikes around Kells offer diverse views, ranging from tranquil river valleys and expansive forests to open countryside. You'll also find scenic vistas near Lough Neagh and potentially glimpses of distant landmarks like Slemish Mountain from certain viewpoints, such as the View of Slemish Mountain from Colin Road.

The Kells area is rich in points of interest. You can explore the historic Antrim Castle Gardens, visit the ancient Antrim Round Tower, or discover the natural beauty of Randalstown Forest. The Antrim Castle Gardens – The Protector of the Lough loop specifically passes by several of these.

Yes, many of the hiking routes around Kells are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Forest Path loop from Carnearny and the Randalstown Viaduct – Randalstown Forest loop from Randalstown.

Hikes around Kells vary in length and duration. Easy routes like the Devenagh Burn Riverbank loop (4.1 miles / 6.6 km) can be completed in under two hours. Moderate trails, such as the Forest Path loop from Carnearny (6.9 miles / 11.2 km), might take around three hours or more, depending on your pace.

The hiking trails in Kells are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 15 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, from gentle riverbank paths to more challenging forest trails, and the scenic beauty of the area, including its proximity to Lough Neagh.

Kells, located in Northern Ireland, experiences a temperate maritime climate. This means mild, wet winters and cool summers. Weather can be changeable, so it's advisable to be prepared for rain at any time of year and to check the local forecast before heading out. Layers of clothing are recommended.

Parking availability varies by trailhead. Many popular starting points for hikes, especially those near towns or established parks like Antrim Castle Gardens or Randalstown Forest, will have designated parking areas. It's recommended to check the specific route details on komoot for parking information related to your chosen trail.

While the trails themselves might be in natural settings, Kells and nearby towns like Antrim and Randalstown offer various cafes, pubs, and restaurants where you can refuel before or after your hike. It's a good idea to plan your route to pass through or near these towns if you're looking for refreshments.