The best walks and hikes around Ballygowan

Yes, the area offers several options suitable for families. A great choice is the Omagh Gaol loop from Omagh, which is a gentle and relatively flat walk. For something more adventurous with kids, Colin Glen is a popular forest park known for its children's activities and story-themed trails.

Many trails in the region are loops. For an easy circular route, consider the Hiking loop from Mountfield. Additionally, Hillsborough Forest Park and Delamont Country Park are well-known for their well-marked circular paths of varying lengths, making it easy to choose a walk that fits your schedule.

Many parks and trails in County Down are dog-friendly, but policies can vary. Places like Cairn Wood and The Fairy Glen are popular with dog walkers. Always check for local signage, as some areas, especially those with livestock or sensitive wildlife like Strangford Lough, may require dogs to be on a lead. Belvoir Park Forest is another highly-regarded spot for walks with your dog.

For panoramic views, a visit to Divis and the Black Mountain is a must. The trails there offer stunning vistas over Belfast and the surrounding landscape. Another excellent option is Redburn Country Park, which provides impressive views over Belfast Lough from its pathways on the escarpment.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll find gentle, paved paths in places like Belvoir Park Forest, ideal for easy strolls. Other routes, such as those in the Sperrins, involve ascents on unpaved, open terrain. Coastal walks around Strangford Lough can be flat but sometimes muddy, while woodland trails in places like Cregagh Glen can be steep and uneven in sections.

Locals and visitors enjoy a variety of spots for hiking. Some of the most popular include:

• National Trust - Divis and the Black Mountain: A top-rated favorite known for its incredible panoramic city and mountain views.
• Belvoir Park Forest: Highly regarded for its peaceful, mature woodland trails along the River Lagan.
• National Trust Lisnabreeny Cregagh Glen: A beautiful trail that winds through a glen, forest, and meadow.
• The Fairy Glen: A very popular and scenic walk along a river, great for families and dog walkers.

The hikes range from easy to moderate. There are 3 easy routes perfect for beginners or a relaxed day out, and 2 moderate trails that require a bit more fitness, often involving some elevation gain. There are currently no designated difficult or expert-level hikes in this specific collection, but the nearby Mourne Mountains offer more strenuous challenges.

The routes in this guide are highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the mix of scenery, from peaceful woodland paths to expansive views over the lough and surrounding countryside. The accessibility of many trails for different fitness levels is also a frequently mentioned positive.

Parking availability varies. While many country parks like Delamont and Hillsborough have dedicated car parks, some popular spots can get very busy. For example, the car park at Divis and the Black Mountain fills up quickly, especially on weekends. It's always a good idea to arrive early to secure a space.

Accessing trailheads by public transport can be challenging and requires careful planning. While some larger towns and parks may be served by bus routes from Belfast or surrounding areas, many of the more remote trailheads are not directly accessible. It is best to check local bus schedules in advance and be prepared for a walk from the nearest stop.

Yes, the proximity to Strangford Lough and the Ards Peninsula provides excellent opportunities for coastal walking. You can explore trails at the WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre or within the grounds of Castle Ward, both of which offer stunning views over the lough. The beaches along the Ards Peninsula, like Crawfordsburn Beach, are also perfect for a scenic walk by the sea.