The best walks and hikes around Ballyedock
4.7
(36)
397
hikers
20
hikes
Hiking around Ballyedock offers a variety of trails, primarily featuring coastal and woodland environments. The region's terrain includes gentle slopes and well-maintained paths, suitable for diverse hiking experiences. Hikers can expect views of shorelines and forested areas, with elevations generally remaining below 200 meters. The landscape is characterized by a mix of open fields and sheltered woodlands, providing varied scenery.
Best hiking trails around Ballyedock
- The most popular hiking route is Castle Ward Hoof Trail, a 7.6 miles (12.2…
Last updated: May 15, 2026
4.6
(11)
50
hikers
12.2km
03:17
150m
150m
Embark on the Castle Ward Hoof Trail, a moderate hiking route spanning 7.6 miles (12.2 km) with an elevation gain of 483 feet (147 metres). You can expect to complete…
4.7
(3)
75
hikers
4.66km
01:15
60m
60m
Discover the easy Castle Ward Farm Trail, a delightful hike spanning 2.9 miles (4.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 201 feet (61 metres). This route typically takes about…
Sign up for free
5.0
(3)
26
hikers
7.74km
02:05
100m
90m
Embark on the Castle Ward Boundary Trail, a moderate hiking route that guides you through a diverse landscape of mature woodlands, active farmlands, and historic grounds. As you hike, you…
5.0
(2)
20
hikers
8.57km
02:17
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
27
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Ballyedock
Tips from the Community
This section feels like a green oasis - the path winds through dense trees that provide cool shade and create the perfect contrast to the warm summer sun. The leaves rustle gently in the wind and there is a peaceful silence that immediately relaxes you. As soon as you leave the forest, the landscape opens up and reveals a view of wide fields that dance like waves in the wind. Here you feel completely connected to nature, a moment to enjoy and take a deep breath before moving on. A real insider tip for a relaxed tour in the countryside!
0
0
This 15th-century three-storey tower house stands on a rocky outcrop overlooking Strangford Lough and offers commanding views of the surrounding countryside. Named after its 16th-century owner, John Audley, the tower is a typical example of the numerous stone towers built for the lesser nobility in the late Middle Ages.
1
1
When you cycle along the banks of this natural harbour, you immediately feel the special atmosphere of this place, which has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The lough stretches an impressive 26 kilometres in length and impresses with over 365 small islands, many of which dry out at low tide. On your way you will repeatedly come across fascinating traces of long-gone cultures: from Mesolithic sites to Bronze Age remains to stone fish fences that were used by the early inhabitants for fishing. The Køkkenmøddinger are particularly interesting - shell heaps made of local oysters that have survived for thousands of years. There is a lot to discover in places like Mahee Island or Rough Island, and at low tide you can even reach Rough Island on foot. If you are up for a little effort, the climb up Scrabo Hill near Newtownards is worth it. From up there you have a magnificent view: Belfast stretches out to the west, the Mourne Mountains to the south, and on a clear day you can see the Ards Peninsula and even the Isle of Man. This hill has a long history - it has been inhabited since the Neolithic period. Strangford Lough is not only scenically beautiful, but also an exciting area for anyone interested in archaeology and history. Whether you are interested in nature or history, this tour around the lough is sure to be a memorable one.
1
0
Wikipedia (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%27s_Castle https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%E2%80%99s_Castle Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/audleys-castle-p707501 Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Visit Game of Thrones - Filming Locations, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/blog/read/2020/06/visit-game-of-thrones-filming-locations-b147 “… Within the Castle Ward demesne, you can make your way over to Audley's Field where Robb Stark meets Talisa after the battle at Oxcross. …“ #GoT #BattleOfOxcross #WarOfTheFiveKings
2
0
Wikipedia (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%27s_Castle https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%E2%80%99s_Castle Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/audleys-castle-p707501 Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Visit Game of Thrones - Filming Locations, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/blog/read/2020/06/visit-game-of-thrones-filming-locations-b147 “… Within the Castle Ward demesne, you can make your way over to Audley's Field where Robb Stark meets Talisa after the battle at Oxcross. …“ #GoT #BattleOfOxcross #WarOfTheFiveKings
3
0
National Trust (Castle Ward, 2023-12-24): https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/castle-ward https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tl_SVBg9R8U Wikipedia (Castle Ward, 2023-12-24): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward “… The most interesting aspect of Castle Ward is that of its dual architecture, representing the differing tastes of Lord Bangor and his wife, Lady Ann Bligh. While the entrance side of the building is done in a classical Palladian style with columns supporting a triangular pediment, the opposite side is Georgian Gothic with pointed windows, battlements and finials. …”
2
1
Great place for a run along the coastline.
0
0
In a fairly secluded location, Audleystown Wood is a pleasant, forested area with contrasting views of water and land, ideal for a picnic stop during your ride.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of hiking trails can I expect around Ballyedock?
The hiking trails around Ballyedock primarily feature coastal and woodland environments, particularly within the Castle Ward estate. You can expect well-maintained paths and gentle slopes, offering varied scenery with views of shorelines, open fields, and sheltered woodlands.
How many hiking trails are available in the Ballyedock area?
There are over 20 hiking trails available around Ballyedock, offering a range of experiences from easy strolls to more moderate hikes. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community.
Are there easy hiking options suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Ballyedock offers several easy hiking options. For instance, the Castle Ward Farm Trail is an easy 2.9-mile (4.7 km) path that provides a pleasant walk through farm scenery and woodlands, ideal for families or those seeking a relaxed outing. Overall, 12 of the 20 available tours are rated as easy.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see while hiking?
While hiking around Ballyedock, particularly within the Castle Ward estate, you can encounter several interesting landmarks. These include the historic Castle Ward Tower, famously known as a Winterfell filming location, and Audley's Castle. You can also enjoy the scenic Forest Path Along Strangford Lough.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the area?
Yes, there are circular hiking routes available. For example, the Castle Ward – Castle Ward Shore Car Park loop from Portaferry is a moderate 8.6 km (5.3 miles) loop. Another option is the Castle Ward Shore Car Park loop from Strangford, an easy 3.8 km (2.4 miles) route.
What is the typical duration for hikes around Ballyedock?
The duration of hikes around Ballyedock varies depending on the trail. Easy routes like the Castle Ward Farm Trail can take around 1 hour 15 minutes, while moderate trails such as the Castle Ward Hoof Trail, which is 12.2 km (7.6 miles), typically take about 3 hours 16 minutes to complete.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails around Ballyedock?
The trails around Ballyedock are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 30 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied landscapes, from coastal views to sheltered woodlands, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable experience.
Is there parking available near the hiking trails?
Yes, parking is available. For trails within the Castle Ward estate, you can find parking at locations like the Castle Ward Shore Car Park, which serves as a starting point for several routes.
Are there any trails that offer coastal views?
Many trails in the Ballyedock area, particularly those within the Castle Ward estate, offer beautiful coastal views. The Castle Ward Boundary Trail, for example, leads through both coastal and forested areas, providing scenic vistas of the shoreline.
What is the elevation gain like on hikes around Ballyedock?
The elevation gain on hikes around Ballyedock is generally moderate, with elevations typically remaining below 200 meters. Trails feature gentle slopes rather than steep climbs, making them accessible for a wide range of fitness levels. For instance, the Castle Ward Hoof Trail has an elevation gain of about 147 meters over its 12.2 km distance.
Most popular routes around Ballyedock
Most popular attractions around Ballyedock
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
