The best walks and hikes around Gills

Yes, the area is very family-friendly. Most trails are on low-lying terrain with minimal elevation change. A great option is the Mountsandel Fort – Mountsandel Fort loop from Coleraine, which is a relatively short walk through a historic area. For another well-regarded family outing, locals often visit Hazelwood Forest, known for its clean, easy paths and beautiful scenery.

Dogs are generally welcome on the trails around Gills, especially in open areas like forests and along riverbanks. However, it's always best practice to keep them on a leash, particularly near farmland or where wildlife is present. Always check local signage at trailheads for specific rules.

Yes, many of the popular walks in the region are loop trails, allowing you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. The Somerset Forest loop from Macosquin is a perfect example, offering a pleasant circular walk through woodland scenery.

Most established trailheads and forest parks in the area provide parking. For instance, popular spots like Dooney Rock Forest and Slishwood Forest are noted for having convenient parking available at the entrance. For hikes starting in or near towns like Coleraine, you will find public car parks, but it's wise to arrive early on weekends.

While the immediate Gills area is known for gentle riverside scenery, you can find stunning viewpoints nearby. The Mountsandel Fort – View of the River Bann loop from Coleraine offers lovely perspectives of the river. For more dramatic, 360-degree views, many hikers travel to the Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which is highly praised for its scenery from the summit.

The trails around Gills are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's quiet woodlands, tranquil riverside paths, and the accessibility of the easy-to-follow trails.

The terrain around Gills is predominantly gentle and low-lying. While there are no difficult mountain climbs, you can find longer routes for a challenge. The Hiking loop from Coleraine is the longest and most demanding trail in the immediate vicinity, offering a good 8 km walk.

Many of the trails are ideal for trail running, thanks to their gentle gradients and well-maintained surfaces. The woodland paths in places like Somerset Forest loop from Coleraine and the riverside trails offer excellent, relatively flat routes for runners.

You can explore over a dozen curated hiking routes around Gills. The network is primarily composed of easy walks, with one moderate trail, providing plenty of options for a day out in nature.

For a day hike here, comfortable walking shoes are a must. As the weather can be changeable, it's wise to bring a waterproof jacket. Also pack some water and snacks. Since many paths go through woodland, insect repellent can be useful during warmer months.

The immediate Gills area is characterized more by its river and forest scenery than by waterfalls. While you may find small cascades along the River Bann, for a dedicated waterfall hike, you might need to travel further afield into the wider region.

Yes, some trails are accessible via public transport. Routes starting from Coleraine can be reached by bus or train. From the town center, you can walk to the trailheads for several popular hikes. For trails in more remote forests, a car is often more convenient.