The best walks and hikes around Ballykeel

This guide focuses on the Ballykeel in County Down, near Strangford Lough. It's an area known for its gentle coastal paths, wooded hills, and historical sites like Scrabo Tower, rather than the Ballykeel locations in the Mourne Mountains or the Ring of Gullion.

Yes, many of the trails in this area are loops, making it easy to start and end in the same place. A great example is the Sketrick Island loop via Sketrick Castle — Strangford & Lecale, a short, flat walk around the island. Another option is the Rough Island loop — Strangford & Lecale, which takes you through a coastal nature reserve.

The region is ideal for beginners, with most routes rated as easy. Thirteen of the sixteen available trails are suitable for those new to hiking. A great starting point is the Scrabo Tower loop from Newtownards Aerodrome, which is less than a mile and offers a rewarding view without a major climb.

Definitely. The terrain around Ballykeel is mostly flat with minimal elevation, making it perfect for family outings. The trails are generally short and manageable for little legs. The walk through Killynether Wood and Scrabo Tower — Strangford & Lecale combines a forest path with the excitement of seeing a historic tower.

Many trails in the area are suitable for walking with a dog, but it's always best to check local signage for specific rules, especially in nature reserves. Places like Rea's Wood are known to be popular with dog walkers. Remember to keep your dog under control and clean up after them.

The hiking here is defined by the beautiful coastline of Strangford Lough, gentle wooded hills, and paths that take you past historical landmarks. You'll experience serene coastal nature reserves, small islands accessible by causeways, and forested parks that open up to panoramic viewpoints.

Yes, history is a key feature of this area. Several routes pass by significant sites. The walk around Sketrick Island features the 15th-century Sketrick Castle, while other trails lead to the iconic Scrabo Tower, a well-known landmark overlooking Strangford Lough.

The routes are very well-regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the stunning views across Strangford Lough, the well-maintained paths through woodlands, and the peaceful atmosphere of the coastal trails.

The vast majority of hikes are easy, with only a few classified as moderate. The terrain is generally low-lying with very little significant elevation gain, making it accessible for almost all fitness levels. You won't find any difficult, technical mountain climbs in this specific guide.

Besides the specific routes in this guide, there are several other highly-regarded spots for walking in the wider region.

National Trust - Divis and the Black Mountain is a local favorite offering panoramic city and mountain views from its trails. National Trust Lisnabreeny Cregagh Glen is another beautiful option with a trail that covers glen, forest, and meadow. For a walk along the water, Rea's Wood offers a lovely forest trail by the lough.

Parking can vary. Some popular spots like Divis and the Black Mountain have dedicated car parks that can fill up quickly, so arriving early is a good idea. Other trailheads, particularly for more rural walks, may have limited roadside parking. It's always wise to park considerately and safely.