The best walks and hikes around Ballymurphy
4.5
(49)
506
hikers
28
hikes
Hiking around Ballymurphy offers a diverse range of landscapes, from dramatic glens and cascading waterfalls to ancient woodlands and tranquil loughs. The region features rolling hills and open mountain terrain, alongside urban green spaces like Colin Glen. These physical features provide varied hiking experiences across different elevations and environments.
Best hiking trails around Ballymurphy
- The most popular hiking route is Castle Ward Hoof Trail, a 7.6 miles (12.2 km) moderate trail that takes 3 hours 16 minutes to complete.…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
4.6
(11)
50
hikers
12.2km
03:17
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(3)
75
hikers
4.66km
01:15
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(3)
26
hikers
7.74km
02:05
100m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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.
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Popular around Ballymurphy
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
How many hiking trails are available around Ballymurphy?
Ballymurphy and its surrounding areas offer a wide selection of hiking opportunities, with over 25 routes available. These range from easy strolls to more challenging moderate trails, ensuring options for various fitness levels.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in the Ballymurphy area?
Yes, Ballymurphy offers several easy trails suitable for families. For instance, the Castle Ward Farm Trail is an easy 2.9-mile path with scenic views of Strangford Lough and woodlands. Additionally, Colin Glen provides pram and wheelchair-friendly options like the Englishtown Walk, alongside the unique Gruffalo Trail for younger adventurers.
Where can I find trails with waterfalls near Ballymurphy?
For stunning waterfalls, head to Glenariff Forest Park, often called the 'Queen of the Glens.' It's renowned for its spectacular Waterfall Walk, which guides you through ancient woodlands and past cascading falls along the Inver River. This park offers a truly immersive experience with nature.
Are there any circular walks available around Ballymurphy?
Yes, many trails in the region are circular. For example, the Castle Ward – Castle Ward Shore Car Park loop from Portaferry is a moderate 5.3-mile circular route. Another easy option is the Castle Ward Shore Car Park loop from Strangford, covering about 2.3 miles.
What kind of natural attractions or landmarks can I see while hiking near Ballymurphy?
The region is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. Around Strangford Lough, you can discover landmarks like the Strangford Stone and enjoy views of the Ringhaddy Sound. Delamont Country Park also offers beautiful natural settings. Many trails, such as the Castle Ward Boundary Trail, lead through historic locations and along the lough shore.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails around Ballymurphy?
The trails around Ballymurphy are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from nearly 50 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil loughs and ancient woodlands to dramatic glens, and appreciate the variety of routes suitable for different abilities.
Are there any trails that offer panoramic views of the area?
Yes, several trails provide expansive views. The Ballycullo Walk in Colin Glen, for example, offers panoramic vistas of Belfast, the Mourne Mountains, Stormont, and Harland and Wolff. The wider area around Slieve Croob and the Dromara Hills also provides open mountain terrain with far-reaching views.
What are the options for parking and public transport for trails near Ballymurphy?
Many popular hiking spots, such as Castle Ward and Glenariff Forest Park, offer dedicated parking facilities. For urban green spaces like Colin Glen, parking is available, and it's also accessible via public transport from Belfast. It's advisable to check specific location details for the most up-to-date information on parking and public transport links.
Are the hiking trails around Ballymurphy suitable for dogs?
Many outdoor areas in Northern Ireland, including some trails around Ballymurphy, are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock, and to check specific park or trail regulations beforehand. Glenariff Forest Park and Castle Ward typically welcome dogs.
What is the best time of year to hike in the Ballymurphy region?
The Ballymurphy region offers enjoyable hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while summer provides longer daylight hours and generally milder weather. Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, and even winter can be rewarding for those prepared for cooler temperatures, offering crisp air and quieter trails. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Are there any trails that explore ancient woodlands or nature reserves?
Absolutely. Drumnaph Nature Reserve is a special remnant of ancient Irish landscape, offering easy and moderate walking trails like the Ruachan Trail and Loch Bran Trail through ancient woodland, wetland, and bog. Glenariff Forest Park also features extensive ancient woodlands along its waterfall trails.
What is the longest moderate trail available in the area?
The Castle Ward Hoof Trail is a notable moderate route, stretching 7.6 miles (12.2 km). It takes approximately 3 hours and 16 minutes to complete, exploring the diverse landscapes around Strangford Lough.
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