The best walks and hikes around Halftown
4.7
(22)
405
hikers
19
hikes
Hiking around Halftown features trails along the shores of Lough Neagh, through historic castle gardens, and into local forests. The region offers a mix of flat paths suitable for leisurely walks and some routes with gentle ascents. The landscape is characterized by its proximity to the lough and green spaces. The network of hiking trails in Halftown provides options for various ability levels.
Best hiking trails around Halftown
- The most popular hiking route is Loughshore Trail - Antrim Loop,…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.6
(8)
58
hikers
7.11km
01:49
30m
30m
Embark on an easy hike along the Loughshore Trail - Antrim Loop, a gentle 4.4 miles (7.1 km) route that takes about 1 hour and 49 minutes to complete. You'll…
5.0
(1)
46
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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9
hikers
11.2km
03:07
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
7.83km
02:01
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Halftown
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 Ladyship’s 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 available around Halftown?
There are over 20 hiking trails around Halftown listed on komoot. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from leisurely strolls along Lough Neagh to more active walks through local forests.
What types of terrain can I expect on Halftown's hiking trails?
Halftown's hiking trails primarily feature paths along the shores of Lough Neagh, through historic castle gardens, and into local forests. You'll find a mix of flat paths suitable for leisurely walks and some routes with gentle ascents, characteristic of the region's green spaces.
Are there easy hiking options suitable for beginners or families in Halftown?
Yes, Halftown offers 14 easy hiking routes. A great option for a relaxed outing is the Loughshore Trail - Antrim Loop, which is 4.4 miles (7.1 km) and follows the Loughshore, providing scenic water views.
Are there any moderate or more challenging hikes in the Halftown area?
While there are no difficult routes, Halftown has 7 moderate hiking trails. For a more active experience, consider the Forest Path loop from Carnearny, a 6.9 miles (11.2 km) trail leading through forested areas with some elevation changes.
What are the typical lengths and durations of hikes in Halftown?
Hiking trails in Halftown vary in length and duration. Easy routes like the Loughshore Trail - Antrim Loop are around 4.4 miles (7.1 km) and take under 2 hours. Moderate trails, such as the Forest Path loop from Carnearny, can be up to 6.9 miles (11.2 km) and take around 3 hours.
Are there circular hiking routes available in Halftown?
Yes, many of the trails in Halftown are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Antrim Castle Gardens – The Protector of the Lough loop from Antrim is a 4.7-mile (7.6 km) circular route that explores historic gardens and the lough shore.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see along the hiking trails?
Many trails in Halftown pass by significant landmarks. You can explore the historic Antrim Castle Gardens, enjoy views from the Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim, or even spot the Antrim Round Tower. The Antrim Castle Ruins – Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim loop from Antrim specifically highlights historical ruins and the shoreline.
Is Halftown suitable for dog-friendly hikes?
Many of the trails in Halftown, particularly those in forested areas and along the Loughshore, are suitable for dogs. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock, and to check local signage for specific restrictions.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Halftown?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse scenery, from the tranquil Lough Neagh shores to the peaceful forest paths, and the well-maintained trails that cater to various fitness levels.
When is the best time of year to go hiking in Halftown?
Spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather for hiking in Halftown, with longer daylight hours and blooming flora. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, especially in the forested areas. While winter hiking is possible, be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially wet conditions.
Are there any shorter, easy walks for a quick outing?
Yes, for a shorter, easy walk, consider The Protector of the Lough – Antrim Castle Gardens loop from Antrim. This route is approximately 2.2 miles (3.5 km) and takes just over an hour, perfect for a brief exploration of the castle gardens.
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