The best walks and hikes around Ballymagaughey
4.7
(16)
571
hikers
33
hikes
Hiking trails around Ballymagaughey offer a variety of landscapes, characterized by woodlands, gentle hills, and routes alongside water features. The terrain generally features low elevation gains, making many paths accessible for various fitness levels. The region provides opportunities for exploring natural areas and local landmarks.
Best hiking trails around Ballymagaughey
- The most popular hiking route is Floodgates Walk, a 4.1 miles (6.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 40 minutes to complete. This route features minimal elevation gain, making…
Last updated: May 15, 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
hikers
1.84km
00:28
0m
0m
Hike the easy 1.1-mile Rough Island loop, a tidal trail offering birdwatching and views across Strangford Lough.
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.
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Popular around Ballymagaughey
Tips from the Community
A short stroll around Rough Island will provide you excellent views across the beautiful Strangford Lough and its shoreline. The island is a popular location for bird-watching, so don't forget to bring your binoculars, there is also a picnic area on the island, too. The island is only accessible at low tide, so knowing the tide times is essential.
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This is the tidal causeway leading to the beautiful Rough Island. The causeway becomes completely submerged during high tide, so being aware of the tide times is essential. You can check out the daily times here https://www.tideschart.com/New-Zealand/Other/Rough-Island/
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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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Woodland gravel path alongside a quarry and up in to Scrabo Country Park and Killynether Wood
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Ballymagaughey?
There are over 30 hiking routes available around Ballymagaughey, offering a variety of experiences from easy strolls to more moderate hikes. The terrain generally features low elevation gains, making many paths accessible for various fitness levels.
What is the general difficulty level of hikes in Ballymagaughey?
The majority of hikes in Ballymagaughey are considered easy, with 22 out of 31 routes falling into this category. There are also 8 moderate trails and 1 difficult route for those seeking more of a challenge. The region is characterized by woodlands, gentle hills, and paths alongside water features.
Are there any circular walks in the Ballymagaughey area?
Yes, there are several circular walks. For example, the Rough Island loop is a short, easy circular trail that takes you through an island landscape. Another option is the Scrabo Tower loop from Newtownards, which offers a longer circular experience.
What kind of natural attractions can I expect to see while hiking around Ballymagaughey?
The hiking trails often lead through woodlands and alongside water bodies. While specific natural attractions for Ballymagaughey are not widely documented, the broader area features several lakes, such as those near Billy Neill Playing Fields and Kiltonga Nature Reserve Lake. You might also encounter wetland areas like the WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre.
Are there any historical landmarks or points of interest near the hiking routes?
Yes, the area around Ballymagaughey offers several historical points of interest. You can explore sites like Sketrick Castle, the ancient Nendrum Monastery Ruins, or Kilmood Church. Additionally, the Killynether Wood and Scrabo Tower trail leads to the notable Scrabo Tower, offering views of the surrounding area.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Ballymagaughey?
The trails in Ballymagaughey are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, which includes woodlands, gentle hills, and paths near water, making for enjoyable outings.
Are there any trails suitable for families with children?
Many of the trails in Ballymagaughey are suitable for families due to their generally low elevation gains and easy difficulty. The Floodgates Walk, for instance, is a 4.1-mile (6.6 km) trail with minimal elevation, making it an easy outing for most. The Rough Island loop is even shorter and very accessible.
Are there any trails with good viewpoints in Ballymagaughey?
Yes, trails that ascend to higher ground often provide good views. The Killynether Wood and Scrabo Tower trail leads to Scrabo Tower, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. You can also find a specific viewpoint of the tower from Ballydrain Road.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
While specific parking details for every trailhead are not provided in the guide, many popular hiking areas in the region typically offer designated parking facilities. It is advisable to check individual route descriptions on komoot for detailed information regarding parking availability before your visit.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Ballymagaughey?
Given the general characteristics of the region with woodlands and water features, hiking in Ballymagaughey can be enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Winter hiking is also possible, though conditions may vary.
Are there any hidden gem hikes in Ballymagaughey?
While the guide highlights popular routes, the region's network of over 30 trails means there are many opportunities to discover less-trafficked paths. Exploring trails like the Scrabo Tower – Killynether Wood loop from Scrabo Tower might lead you to quieter sections and unique perspectives of the area.
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