The best walks and hikes around Ballymagreehan
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(53)
1,666
hikers
82
hikes
Hiking around Ballymagreehan, a townland in County Down, Northern Ireland, offers access to a region known for its diverse landscapes. The area features geological formations from the Newry Igneous Complex, notably at Ballymagreehan Quarry, and is situated on the eastern flank of Tullynasoo Mountain. This location provides a natural environment conducive to exploration, with the broader Newry, Mourne and Down District offering scenic beauty, including views towards the Mourne Mountains. The terrain includes hills, woodlands, and varied natural features.
Best hiking trails around Ballymagreehan
- The most popular hiking route is Floodgates Walk, a 4.1 miles (6.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 39 minutes to complete. This easy route offers a straightforward path suitable for a relaxed walk.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Killynether Wood and Scrabo Tower, an easy 2.5 miles (4.0 km) path. This route leads through Killynether Wood and offers views of Scrabo Tower.
- Local hikers also love the Scrabo Tower loop from Newtownards, a 3.9 miles (6.3 km) trail leading through the area around Scrabo Tower, often completed in about 1 hour 51 minutes.
- Hiking around Ballymagreehan is defined by geological formations, hills, and woodlands. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and more challenging routes.
- The routes in Ballymagreehan are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 1,800 hikers have used komoot to explore Ballymagreehan's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
5.0
(1)
41
hikers
6.58km
01:40
10m
10m
Hike the easy Floodgates Walk in Strangford & Lecale AONB, offering 4.1 miles of scenic views over Strangford Lough and abundant wildlife.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
4.01km
01:11
120m
120m
Hike through Killynether Wood and ascend to Scrabo Tower for panoramic views over Strangford Lough on this easy 2.5-mile trail.
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5.0
(2)
55
hikers
6.28km
01:51
180m
180m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
49
hikers
4.07km
01:11
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
hikers
6.94km
01:55
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Ballymagreehan
Tips from the Community
Follow this flat, paved path along the northern strand of Strangford Lough near Newtownwards. You're afforded great views out over the water and also of Scrabo Tower, which looms above the town.
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Always worth the ascent. If only for the view towards Sliev Croob and the Mournes. Beautiful patch work of swollen hills, cut by colourful fields, that meander all the way to the shore of Strangford Lough below. There are several interesting woodland gravel trails in the woods, connecting to Scrabo, and Ards. Twilight is magic up here. Smooth tarmac Decent down to Ards via Scrabo Road is a joy, with the tower on your left, and the sprawling Lough, and Newtownards to your right.
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There is a decent sized network of Woodland Gravel trails in Killynether that connect to the old Quarry Path, and Scrabo Tower.
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Scrabo Tower is an impressive 19th century folly that stands on Scrabo Hill in County Down. It is one of the most well-known landmarks in Northern Ireland. Inside the tower is an exhibition and short video explaining its history and outside the tower you can enjoy some incredible views over Strangford Lough and the surrounding countryside
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It's a peaceful encounter trailing through the woods of Killynether. The woods are on the grounds of a former estate and the beautiful medley of flowers and trees is the result of some keen planters back in the 19th century.
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19th-century folly and lookout tower near Bangor. Named after the 5th Baron's mother, Helen. He intended it as a shrine for poems - Tennyson's Helen's Tower is the best known of them. Well worth a stop off to explore the architecture.
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A lovely walk especially from Helens Bay - through rolling country side, however there is no signage but reasonable easy to follow - that is until to come to Helen's Tower - if you find it give yourself a Mars bar and if you manage to find your way to your cat at Whitespots car park - give yourself two Mars bars. Enjoy :-)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Ballymagreehan?
There are over 80 hiking routes in the Ballymagreehan area. These trails cater to various preferences, with 63 easy routes, 21 moderate routes, and 1 more challenging option.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes near Ballymagreehan?
Hiking around Ballymagreehan features diverse terrain, including geological formations from the Newry Igneous Complex, hills, and woodlands. The area is situated on the eastern flank of Tullynasoo Mountain, offering varied natural features and views towards the Mourne Mountains.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Ballymagreehan?
Yes, many of the routes around Ballymagreehan are suitable for families. For instance, the Floodgates Walk is an easy 6.6 km trail that offers a straightforward path for a relaxed walk. Another great option is the Killynether Wood and Scrabo Tower route, which is 4.0 km and leads through pleasant woodlands.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions to see while hiking?
Hikers can explore several interesting points. The area is known for its geological features, such as the Ballymagreehan Quarry. You can also find attractions like Helen's Tower, or enjoy views of Scrabo Tower from various points, such as the Ballydrain Road. The Killynether Wood and Scrabo Tower route specifically offers views of this iconic landmark.
Are there any circular walking routes around Ballymagreehan?
Yes, there are several circular routes available. A popular choice is the Scrabo Tower loop from Newtownards, which is 6.3 km long. Another option is the Scrabo Tower – Killynether Wood loop from Scrabo Tower, a 3.9 km easy trail.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Ballymagreehan?
The trails around Ballymagreehan are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 50 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, the geological interest, and the accessibility of routes for different skill levels.
Are there any lakes or water features to visit near Ballymagreehan?
Yes, the region offers several beautiful water features. You can visit Victoria Park Lake or explore the WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre. The Belfast Window on Wildlife (WOW) also provides opportunities to observe local birdlife around water.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Ballymagreehan?
While specific seasonal recommendations aren't provided, the broader County Down area, including Ballymagreehan, offers diverse landscapes suitable for hiking throughout much of the year. Spring and summer typically provide milder weather and lush scenery, while autumn can offer beautiful foliage. Winter hiking is possible but may require appropriate gear for colder, potentially wetter conditions.
Are there any longer or more challenging hikes available?
While most routes are easy to moderate, there is one designated difficult route among the 85 trails. For those seeking longer easy options, the Helen's Tower – Lead Mine Tower loop from Newtownards is an easy 7.0 km trail that provides a good distance.
Can I find places to explore beyond just hiking trails?
Absolutely. The Newry, Mourne and Down District, where Ballymagreehan is located, is known for its scenic beauty and offers many 'hidden gems'. Beyond the trails, you can visit cultural sites like the Narnia Sculptures at C.S. Lewis Square, or enjoy coastal walks such as the Holywood Esplanade and Coastal Path.
Most popular routes around Ballymagreehan
Most popular attractions around Ballymagreehan
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