The best walks and hikes around Whin Park
4.6
(26)
445
hikers
29
hikes
Hiking around Whin Park offers a variety of trails primarily characterized by low elevation gains and proximity to Lough Neagh. The region features routes through historic castle gardens, along the lough shore, and within forested areas. These paths provide accessible options for exploring the local natural and historical landscape.
Best hiking trails around Whin Park
- The most popular hiking route is Loughshore Trail - Antrim Loop, a 4.4 miles (7.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 49 minutes toβ¦
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.6
(8)
58
hikers
7.11km
01:49
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
65
hikers
5.46km
01:24
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
46
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
24
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
23
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Whin Park
Tips from the Community
The Protector of the Lough statue shows the mythological giant Finn McCool standing guard at Antrim Marina on the shores of Lough Neagh. It's an eight-metre-tall sculpture created by Spanish artist Casto Solan to celebrate the local folklore of the Lough.
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Antrim Castle Gardens are an absolute historical gem. You will find nothing like these 400 year old gardens anywhere else in Northern Ireland. Walk into the past as you stroll around this magnificent setting, visiting beautiful features such as the Large Parterre, Her Ladyshipβs Pleasure Garden and Yew Tree Pond. Within the heart of the Gardens is a unique visitor experience, the refurbished Clotworthy House. Visit the Garden Heritage Exhibition where you can read about the history of the Gardens and the story of the Massereene family. It provides a fantastic opportunity to come and learn about garden history how the lives of the key family members intertwine with the development of Antrim town and the surrounding areas.
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Enjoy a scenic section of running along the shoreline of Lough Neagh . The path is made of gravel and entirely flat making it perfect jogging material. The lough itself holds the title of the largest lake in Ireland and supplies 40% of Northern Ireland's water!
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Antrim Castle Gardens is the perfect place for a jog. It has flat gravel paths throughout as well as a wonderful medley of landmarks to discover such as Large Parterre, Her Ladyship's Pleasure Garden and Yew Tree Pond. Admission to the castle is free and is open 24 hours.
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Scenic section of walking along the shore of Lough Neagh from Antrim. The lough holds the title of the largest lake in Ireland and this footpath gifts you with some gorgeous vantage points to enjoy it from.
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Here you can discover the beauty of Antrim Castle Gardens & Clotworthy House. There's many beautiful landmarks along the way such as Large Parterre, Her Ladyship's Pleasure Garden and Yew Tree Pond. Admission to the castle is free and is open 24 hours.
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Castle gardens including various buildings and ruins on the river. Plenty to look at and explore in the gardens.
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Ruins of Antrim castle set in green grounds next to the river. A great place to stop for a breather.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there in Whin Park?
Whin Park offers a selection of over 30 hiking trails. These routes primarily feature low elevation gains and explore the lough shore, historic castle gardens, and forested areas.
What is the general difficulty level of hikes in Whin Park?
The majority of hikes in Whin Park are considered easy, with 22 out of 31 routes falling into this category. There are also 9 moderate trails available, making the area suitable for a range of abilities.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Whin Park?
The trails in Whin Park are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.6 stars from 25 reviews. Hikers often praise the scenic lough shore paths and the tranquil atmosphere of the castle gardens.
Are there easy hikes suitable for beginners in Whin Park?
Yes, Whin Park is an excellent area for beginners. Many trails are easy, such as the Loughshore Trail - Antrim Loop, which is 4.4 miles (7.1 km) with minimal elevation changes, offering a gentle introduction to the area's beauty.
Are there any circular walks in Whin Park?
Yes, many of the trails in Whin Park are circular. For example, the Antrim Castle Gardens β The Protector of the Lough loop from Antrim is a 4.7-mile (7.6 km) circular route through the historic gardens.
What historical sites or landmarks can I see while hiking in Whin Park?
Hikers can explore several historical sites. The Antrim Castle Gardens are a prominent feature, and you can also encounter the Antrim Round Tower and The Protector of the Lough monument along various routes.
Are there any good viewpoints along the trails in Whin Park?
Yes, many trails offer excellent views, particularly those along the shore of Lough Neagh. The Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim is a key highlight for scenic vistas over the lough.
Are the hiking trails in Whin Park suitable for families with children?
Yes, Whin Park is very family-friendly, especially given the prevalence of easy trails and low elevation gains. The varied landscapes, including castle gardens and lough shore, provide engaging environments for children.
Can I bring my dog on the trails in Whin Park?
Many trails in Whin Park are suitable for dogs, particularly the forested and lough shore paths. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with wildlife or near livestock, and to check specific signage within Antrim Castle Gardens for any restrictions.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Whin Park?
Whin Park is enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and pleasant weather for exploring the gardens and lough shore. Autumn brings beautiful foliage to the forested areas, while winter can provide crisp, quiet walks, though some paths may be muddy.
Where can I park when visiting Whin Park for a hike?
Parking is generally available near key access points to the trails, particularly around Antrim Castle Gardens and other popular starting points along the lough shore. Specific parking details can often be found on local council websites or within the komoot tour details for individual routes.
Are there any wheelchair accessible trails in Whin Park?
While many trails in Whin Park are relatively flat, dedicated wheelchair-accessible paths may be limited. Sections of Antrim Castle Gardens are generally accessible, but it's recommended to check specific route conditions or local council information for detailed accessibility guidance.
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