The best walks and hikes around Screeby
2.8
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23
hikers
3
hikes
Hiking around Screeby, located within the Sperrin Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offers diverse landscapes characterized by a vast mountain and valley system. The region features expansive moorlands, narrow glens, and deep valleys, providing varied terrain for exploration. Geological formations, including folded metamorphic rocks, contribute to the rugged environment. Numerous fast-running streams and rivers traverse the slopes, adding to the scenic beauty.
Best hiking trails around Screeby
- The most popular hiking route is Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle, an easy 3.2 miles (5.2 km) trail that takes 1 hour 22 minutes to complete, leading through woodland paths.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Necarne Castle (Castle Irvine) – Necarne Castle loop from Irvinestown, an easy 2.7 miles (4.3 km) path. This route offers views of the historic castle grounds and surrounding countryside.
- Local hikers also love the Racecourse Lough loop from Brewster Park, a 3.1 miles (4.9 km) trail leading through parkland and around the lough, often completed in about 1 hour 18 minutes.
- Hiking around Screeby is defined by its mountain and valley complex, extensive moorlands, and numerous rivers. The network offers options primarily for easy ability levels.
- The routes in Screeby are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 2.75 stars from 3 reviews. More than 25 hikers have used komoot to explore Screeby's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
4.5
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8
hikers
5.20km
01:22
40m
40m
Hike an easy 3.2-mile (5.2 km) trail through Necarne Woods and past the historic Necarne Castle, perfect for a relaxing walk.
3
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
hikers
4.93km
01:19
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Screeby
Tips from the Community
Head South down the lane to find Necarne Castle. Also known as Castle Irvine, Necarne Castle was built in the 17th century as part of the plantation of Ulster. In 1831, Irish novelist and playwright John B. Keane designed the beautiful two-storey facade which gives the castle its Victorian image. The castle passed through the hands of various owners before being requisitioned by the United Stats army in 1941. It functioned as a military hospital during the Second World War before falling into ruin. Over the last decades, the castle was used by Enniskillen Agricultural College. However, it now stands empty once again and is up for sale. You can't visit the interior of the castle, but you can freely visit the lovely parklands and admire the building from afar.
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Refresh your senses at you run by this lovely lough situated just outside of Enniskillen's town centre in County Fermanagh.
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The route is only for walking, not much sightseeing, very interesting horse farm. Free parking.
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Also known as Castle Irvine, Necarne Castle was built in the 17th century as part of the plantation of Ulster. In 1831, Irish novelist and playwright John B. Keane designed the beautiful two-storey facade which gives the castle its Victorian image. The castle passed through the hands of various owners before being requisitioned by the United Stats army in 1941. It functioned as a military hospital during the Second World War before falling into ruin. Over the last decades, the castle was used by Enniskillen Agricultural College. However, it now stands empty once again and is up for sale. You can't visit the interior of the castle, but you can freely visit the lovely parklands and admire the building from afar.
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The Necarne Castle equestrian park includes 200 acres of mixed use land. The walk through these woods features good gravel trails with low grades in a boggy woodland. Continuing will take you through pasture to the castle itself.
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Once called Irvine Castle, hence the town of Irvinestown, it is now a ruin closed to urban explorers, including cctv. It was in use as late as WWII, when it was a military hospital, but it has since lost its roof and been overtaken by plant life.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of hiking experience can I expect in Screeby?
Screeby, nestled within the Sperrin Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offers a diverse landscape characterized by a vast mountain and valley system. You'll find expansive moorlands, narrow glens, and deep valleys, providing varied terrain. The region is geologically rich, with ancient Dalradian rocks contributing to its rugged beauty. Numerous fast-running streams and rivers like the Owenkillew and Glenelly traverse the slopes, adding to the scenic charm. The trails here are primarily easy, making them suitable for a relaxed outdoor experience.
Are there many hiking trails available in Screeby?
While the region of Screeby offers a vast and diverse landscape, our current selection features 3 distinct hiking routes. These trails are all rated as easy, providing accessible options for exploring the area's natural beauty.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Screeby?
Yes, all the hiking routes in Screeby are rated as easy, making them excellent choices for families. For instance, the Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle trail is an easy 3.2-mile (5.2 km) path through woodlands, perfect for a leisurely family outing.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks I might see while hiking in Screeby?
The Sperrins region around Screeby is rich in natural and historical features. You can expect to see expansive moorlands, deep valleys, and fast-running rivers. Prominent natural features include the screes of Mullaghmore and the distinctive ladder fields of Slieve Gallion, which offers extensive views. Historically, you might encounter sites like Necarne Castle or the ancient Devenish Monastic Site, which includes the impressive Devenish Island Round Tower.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Screeby?
Yes, there are several circular routes available. A popular choice is the Necarne Castle (Castle Irvine) – Necarne Castle loop from Irvinestown, an easy 2.7-mile (4.3 km) path offering views of the historic castle grounds. Another option is the Racecourse Lough loop from Brewster Park, which is an easy 3.1-mile (4.9 km) trail around the lough.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Screeby?
The trails in Screeby are well-regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 2.75 stars. Hikers often appreciate the easy accessibility of the routes and the opportunity to explore the varied terrain, from woodlands to lough-side paths, within the beautiful Sperrin landscape.
What is the best time of year to hike in Screeby?
The Sperrin AONB, where Screeby is located, offers a rewarding hiking experience throughout much of the year. Spring and summer bring vibrant greenery and milder weather, ideal for enjoying the open moorlands and river valleys. Autumn showcases beautiful seasonal colors. While winter can be rugged, it offers a unique, stark beauty, though some paths might be more challenging due to weather conditions.
Are there any historical sites or points of interest near the hiking trails?
Absolutely. The area around Screeby is rich in history. Along some trails, you can explore sites like Necarne Castle. Further afield, you can visit the ancient Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones, or the significant Devenish Monastic Site with its iconic Round Tower.
Are the hiking trails in Screeby suitable for beginners?
Yes, all the hiking trails currently listed for Screeby are rated as easy. This makes them very suitable for beginners or those looking for a relaxed walk rather than a strenuous climb. The paths are generally well-defined and offer gentle gradients.
What kind of landscapes will I encounter on a hike in Screeby?
Hiking in Screeby will immerse you in the diverse landscapes of the Sperrin AONB. You'll traverse a mix of expansive moorlands, often featuring blanket bogs, and wind through narrow glens and deep valleys carved by ancient geological processes. Fast-running streams and rivers are a common sight, contributing to the area's wild and untouched natural beauty.
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