The best walks and hikes around Rathmore
4.7
(22)
354
hikers
22
hikes
Hiking around Rathmore offers a network of trails primarily characterized by low elevation gains and proximity to Lough Neagh. The landscape features lake shores, historical gardens, and gentle paths suitable for various activity levels. This region provides accessible walking trails through natural and managed green spaces.
Best hiking trails around Rathmore
- The most popular hiking route is Loughshore Trail - Antrim Loop, a 4.4 miles (7.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 49 minutes to complete. This route follows the scenic Lough Neagh shoreline.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Antrim Castle Ruins – Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim loop from Antrim, a moderate 5.9 miles (9.5 km) path. This trail combines historical ruins with views of Lough Neagh.
- Local hikers also love the The Protector of the Lough – Antrim Castle Gardens loop from Antrim, a 2.2 miles (3.5 km) trail leading through Antrim Castle Gardens, often completed in about 53 minutes.
- Hiking around Rathmore is defined by lake shores, historical gardens, and low-lying paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, including easy and moderate routes.
- The routes in Rathmore are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 20 reviews. More than 300 hikers have used komoot to explore Rathmore's varied terrain.
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 Rathmore
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 Rathmore?
There are over 20 hiking trails around Rathmore, offering a variety of options for different preferences and skill levels. The region is known for its accessible paths and scenic routes.
What is the general difficulty level of hikes in Rathmore?
The hiking trails around Rathmore are predominantly easy to moderate. Out of 24 available routes, 17 are classified as easy and 7 as moderate, making the area suitable for a wide range of hikers, including beginners.
Are there easy or beginner-friendly hikes near Rathmore?
Yes, Rathmore offers many easy and beginner-friendly hikes. For instance, Loughshore Trail - Antrim Loop is an easy 4.4-mile (7.1 km) trail that follows the scenic Lough Neagh shoreline. Another great option is The Protector of the Lough – Antrim Castle Gardens loop from Antrim, a shorter 2.2-mile (3.5 km) path through historical gardens.
What kind of scenery can I expect on hikes around Rathmore?
Hikes around Rathmore feature diverse scenery, primarily characterized by the tranquil shores of Lough Neagh, historical gardens, and gentle, low-lying paths. You'll find a mix of natural landscapes and managed green spaces, often with views of the lough.
Are there any circular walks in the Rathmore area?
Yes, many of the trails around Rathmore are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular Loughshore Trail - Antrim Loop and Antrim Castle Ruins – Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim loop from Antrim.
Are the hiking trails around Rathmore suitable for families with children?
Many trails in Rathmore are suitable for families, especially the easy-grade routes with low elevation gains. The paths through areas like Antrim Castle Gardens offer engaging scenery and are generally well-maintained, making them pleasant for children.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails near Rathmore?
While specific regulations can vary, many public paths and green spaces in the Rathmore area, especially those along Lough Neagh and in parks, are generally dog-friendly. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them. Check local signage for any specific restrictions.
What are some interesting places to explore or landmarks near the hiking routes?
The area around Rathmore is rich in historical and natural attractions. Along your hikes, you can explore places like Antrim Castle Gardens, the scenic Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim, and the historic Antrim Round Tower. You might also encounter the unique sculpture, The Protector of the Lough.
How long do the hiking trails typically take to complete?
The duration of hikes in Rathmore varies. Shorter, easy trails like The Protector of the Lough – Antrim Castle Gardens loop from Antrim can be completed in under an hour (approx. 53 minutes). Longer, moderate routes such as Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim – Antrim Castle Gardens loop from Antrim can take nearly 4 hours (approx. 3 hours 56 minutes).
Is there public transport available to access hiking trails around Rathmore?
Public transport options to access hiking trails around Rathmore are generally limited. It is advisable to check local bus schedules or consider driving to trailheads. Many trails are accessible from towns like Antrim, which may have better public transport links.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails in Rathmore?
Parking is often available near popular trailheads and attractions such as Antrim Castle Gardens or along the Lough Neagh shore. Specific parking details can usually be found on individual route descriptions or local council websites.
Are there any longer or more challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
While most trails are easy to moderate, experienced hikers can find longer routes. For example, the Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim – Antrim Castle Gardens loop from Antrim is a moderate 9.5-mile (15.2 km) trail that offers a longer outing with more distance to cover.
What do other hikers say about the trails around Rathmore?
The hiking trails around Rathmore are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 20 reviews. Hikers often praise the beautiful lake views, the well-maintained paths through historical gardens, and the overall accessibility of the routes.
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