The best walks and hikes around Cloghy
4.7
(29)
343
hikers
6
hikes
Hiking around Cloghy offers diverse outdoor experiences along the Ards Peninsula in County Down, Northern Ireland. The region is characterized by expansive sandy beaches, scientifically important sand dunes, and coastal paths providing views of the Irish Sea. Cloghy also features significant nature reserves like Cloghy Rocks, which are rich in wildlife and offer opportunities for observation. The landscape combines coastal beauty with accessible trails suitable for various activity levels.
Best hiking trails around Cloghy
- The most popular hiking route is Kearney coastal walk — Strangford & Lecale, a 3.5 miles (5.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 24 minutes to complete. This easy route provides scenic coastal views and access to the shoreline.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Castle Ward – Castle Ward Shore Car Park loop from Strangford, a moderate 7.1 miles (11.5 km) path. This route explores the grounds around Castle Ward, offering a mix of historical features and coastal scenery.
- Local hikers also love the Castle Ward – Castle Ward Shore Car Park loop from Portaferry, a 5.3 miles (8.6 km) trail leading through the Castle Ward estate and along the shore, often completed in about 2 hours 17 minutes.
- Hiking around Cloghy is defined by coastal paths, sandy beaches, and nature reserves. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to moderate hikes.
- The routes in Cloghy 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 Cloghy's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
4.0
(1)
6
hikers
5.59km
01:25
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
50
hikers
11.5km
03:03
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
20
hikers
8.57km
02:17
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
3.65km
00:58
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
2.80km
00:44
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Cloghy
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!
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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.
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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.
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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
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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
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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. …”
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Great place for a run along the coastline.
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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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there easy hiking options suitable for all fitness levels in Cloghy?
Yes, Cloghy offers several easy hiking options. The Kearney coastal walk — Strangford & Lecale is a 3.5-mile (5.6 km) trail that provides scenic coastal views and is suitable for all fitness levels. Another easy option is the Strangford Ferry Terminal loop from Strangford, which is 3.6 km long.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see while hiking in Cloghy?
Cloghy is rich in wildlife, especially at the Cloghy Rocks Nature Reserve. You can often spot seals (both Common and Grey) resting on the rocks, particularly in July during common seal pupping season. The foreshore is a feeding ground for shorebirds like oystercatchers, redshank, and grey herons. In winter, it's an excellent spot for birdwatching, with rare visitors occasionally sighted.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the Cloghy area?
Yes, there are several circular routes. You can explore the Castle Ward – Castle Ward Shore Car Park loop from Strangford, a moderate 7.1-mile (11.5 km) path, or the slightly shorter Castle Ward – Castle Ward Shore Car Park loop from Portaferry at 5.3 miles (8.6 km). The Audley's Castle loop from Portaferry is another easy circular option.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see along the hiking trails?
Many trails offer access to notable landmarks. The routes around Castle Ward, such as the Castle Ward – Castle Ward Shore Car Park loop from Strangford, allow you to see Castle Ward Tower (a filming location for Winterfell) and Audley's Castle. The area also features the expansive Cloughey Beach and the significant Cloghy Rocks Nature Reserve.
Are the hiking trails in Cloghy suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. Many of the coastal paths and beach walks, like Cloughey Beach itself, are very family-friendly. The Kearney coastal walk is an easy hike suitable for all fitness levels, making it a great choice for families looking for a relaxed outdoor experience.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails in Cloghy?
Parking is available at various trailheads. For routes around Castle Ward, the Castle Ward Shore Car Park is a convenient option. For coastal walks like the Kearney coastal walk, parking is typically available near the starting points in the villages or designated areas along the coast.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Cloghy?
The trails in Cloghy are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 20 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the stunning coastal views, the accessibility of the paths, and the opportunities for wildlife spotting, particularly at the nature reserves and along the beaches.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Cloghy?
Many of the coastal paths and open areas in Cloghy are generally dog-friendly, especially if dogs are kept on a lead. Cloughey Beach is a popular spot for dog walking. However, always be mindful of local signage, especially in nature reserves or areas with sensitive wildlife, to ensure responsible enjoyment of the trails.
What is the best time of year to hike in Cloghy?
Cloghy offers enjoyable hiking year-round, but spring and summer provide the best weather for coastal walks and beach activities. July is particularly notable for observing common seal pups at Cloghy Rocks Nature Reserve. Winter can be excellent for birdwatching, with opportunities to see rare migratory birds.
How many hiking trails are available around Cloghy?
There are approximately 6 hiking trails available around Cloghy, offering a mix of easy and moderate options. These routes explore the diverse landscapes of the Ards Peninsula, from sandy beaches to nature reserves and historical estates.
Are there any specific coastal paths recommended for scenic views?
The Kearney coastal walk is highly recommended for its stunning views of the Irish Sea and access to the shoreline. The paths around Cloughey Beach also offer expansive sandy stretches and beautiful coastal vistas.
Are there any historical sites along the hiking routes in Cloghy?
Yes, the area has historical points of interest. While hiking around the Castle Ward estate, you can encounter Castle Ward Tower and Audley's Castle. Additionally, Kirkistown Castle, a 17th-century tower house, adds a touch of heritage to the landscape, though it may not be directly on a komoot-listed route.
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