The best walks and hikes around Tullynewbank

Yes, the area offers several gentle options perfect for a family outing. For a shorter, accessible walk, the Hiking loop from Mount Eagles is an excellent choice. It's a relatively flat 3 km (1.9 mi) trail. Another great spot is the Glenavy Riverside Trail, which is a gentle, picturesque path along the river, ideal for watching wildlife with children.

Many trails in the region are suitable for walking with dogs, but they should be kept on a lead, especially on open moorland like Divis and the Black Mountain where livestock may be grazing. For a pleasant woodland walk, Rea's Wood is a popular choice, though please be aware you'll need to take your own dog waste bags and carry them out as there are no bins on site.

The hiking terrain is quite varied. You'll find everything from gentle riverside paths to routes across open moorland and grassy mountain slopes. Most trails, particularly on Divis and the Black Mountain, follow well-defined paths and boardwalks, but some sections can be uneven and boggy, especially after rain. Sturdy, waterproof footwear is always recommended.

The region is excellent for circular hikes, meaning you can start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. A great example is the Black Mountain Summit loop from Mount Eagles. This 7.5 km (4.7 mi) route provides a full loop with rewarding views from the summit.

The area is rich in wildlife. Along the Glenavy River, you might spot kingfishers, dippers, and wagtails. On the open hills of Divis and the Black Mountain, look for birds of prey like peregrine falcons and listen for the calls of skylarks. The shores of nearby Lough Neagh are also a fantastic location for birdwatching.

Yes, there is dedicated parking for the popular trails. For hikes on Divis and the Black Mountain, the National Trust provides a car park at the main trailhead, which is the starting point for several waymarked routes. It's best to arrive early on weekends and holidays as it can get busy.

Accessing the trailheads directly by public transport can be challenging. The main trailheads, such as the one for Divis and the Black Mountain, are located a few miles outside of Belfast's city center. It is generally easiest to reach the starting points of most hikes by car.

The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning panoramic views over Belfast and the surrounding countryside, as well as the well-maintained paths and boardwalks on the main mountain routes.

While the immediate trailheads are focused on nature, a short drive will take you to nearby towns and villages with cafes and pubs. The areas surrounding Mount Eagles and the wider Belfast area offer numerous options to relax and refuel after your walk.

Yes, you can combine nature with history. The walk along the Glenavy River offers views of a historic triple-arched stone bridge and St. Aidan's Church. Additionally, the Divis and Black Mountain area contains various archaeological sites, adding a layer of historical interest to your hike.