The best walks and hikes around Ballybeen
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3,580
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234
hikes
Walking trails near Ballybeen provide access to a mix of urban parkland, traffic-free greenways, and rolling hills on the outskirts of East Belfast. The area is characterized by its proximity to large public spaces like Stormont Estate and connections to routes such as the Comber Greenway. These routes offer a variety of environments, from managed park paths to more open countryside walks suitable for many fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Ballybeen
- The most popular hiking route is Belmont Park…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
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hikers
10.7km
02:49
100m
100m
Hike the 6.6-mile Belmont Park and Stormont Estate Loop in Belfast, featuring wooded parkland, wildflowers, and views of the Parliament Buil
5.0
(1)
56
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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38
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
23
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
6.77km
01:45
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The paths meander through lush greenery that makes you feel like you're far away from the city. A well-kept park that offers space for both exercise and relaxed rolling. The tree-lined avenues are particularly beautiful - perfect for cycling in the interplay of light and shadow. The route also runs along the Connswater Community Greenway, a green corridor through Belfast that beautifully connects Orangefield Park with other green areas of the city. The evening atmosphere with the play of light on the manicured lawn and the clouds over Belfast is definitely worth a moment to pause - a calm contrast to the otherwise busy city. Ideal for a relaxed ride in the early morning or to wind down in the evening without being too far away.
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Here, in the middle of the city, the characters from The Chronicles of Narnia come to life in the form of impressive bronze sculptures. As a cyclist, you pass right by the square and can pause for a moment to immerse yourself in this fantastic world. The sculptures of Aslan, the mighty lion, and the White Witch's throne in particular attract attention. The details of the figures are impressive and give the characters a special presence. The square is not only a place for literature lovers, but also an interesting work of art in the open air - a change from the usual sights. CS Lewis, the famous writer and son of the city, is omnipresent here and also makes this place a small piece of Belfast history.
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Located in East Belfast, Belmont Park is a pleasant park with a large network of paths, grassland and gorgeous seasonal bluebell meadows.
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Throughout WWI, many bombes were dropped in Belfast, along with land mines placed throughout the city and surrounding areas. While most areas have been refilled since the war, this spot is unique as it still remains how it was as a bomb crater from the war.
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The park has an ecotrail, outdoor gym and children's playground. The park also contains Orangefield Playing Fields with a bowling green, tennis courts, soccer pitches and a Velodrome !
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The Velodrome has to be booked through Belfast City Councils webpage ( book the football pitch for entry to Velodrome ) https://www.belfastcity.gov.uk/Things-to-Do/Outdoor-leisure-activities/Sports-pitches-and-facilities/Book-a-pitch
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This trail will take you to the places that inspired the young C.S. Lewis, one of our most famous literary sons, best known for his magical world of Narnia. Clive Staples Lewis was born in Belfast on 29 November 1898 and grew up in family homes on Dundela Avenue and Circular Road in the east of the city. The trail starts at 'The Searcher' sculpture outside Holywood Arches Library on the Holywood Road and includes sites such as C.S. Lewis Square (containing 7 Narnia inspired sculptures), St. Mark's Church, where his grandfather was rector and where Lewis himself was baptised, and No. 47 Dundela Avenue where a Blue Plaque marks where the writer was born.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks near Ballybeen?
Yes, the area is great for family walks. Stormont Estate offers several easy, accessible trails perfect for all ages. For a shorter, manageable walk, consider the Statue of Sir Edward Carson – Stormont Estate loop, which is under 3 km. Moat Park in Dundonald is another excellent choice with a children's play park and paths around a historic motte.
Where can I find dog-friendly hiking trails?
Most parks and greenways around Ballybeen are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a lead. The Comber Greenway is a popular, long-distance path for dog walkers. For off-lead exercise, there is a dedicated dog exercise area adjacent to the Ballybeen Play Park. Many of the trails in Belvoir Park Forest are also suitable for walking with dogs.
What are the best circular walks in the area?
The area has many great loop trails. For a route that combines urban green space with a historic estate, the Belmont Park & Stormont Estate loop — Belfast is a popular moderate option. For something different, the C.S. Lewis Square loop from Campbell College offers an easy walk exploring a unique part of East Belfast's heritage.
How many hiking trails are there around Ballybeen?
There are over 250 hiking routes to explore around Ballybeen, ranging from easy park strolls to more challenging hill walks. The majority of these are rated as easy, making the region very accessible for casual walkers.
What do other hikers say about the trails near Ballybeen?
The trails are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths within Stormont Estate and the peaceful, traffic-free experience of the Comber Greenway. The variety, from landscaped parks to open countryside, is a frequently mentioned highlight.
How do I get to the Comber Greenway from Ballybeen?
The Comber Greenway is easily accessible from Ballybeen. The 7-mile path runs from East Belfast to Comber, passing directly through Dundonald. You can join it from multiple points, including via Moat Park or near the Billy Neill MBE Country Park.
Are there any good spots for a picnic with a view?
For spectacular panoramic views over Belfast, Cave Hill Country Park is a local favourite, with plenty of spots to stop for a picnic. Divis and the Black Mountain also offers incredible scenery stretching as far as the Mourne Mountains on a clear day, with open moorland perfect for a rest.
How does hiking at Cave Hill compare to Divis and the Black Mountain?
Both offer fantastic views, but the experience is different. Cave Hill features more rugged, challenging climbs to its summit, known as 'Napoleon's Nose'. Divis and the Black Mountain, managed by the National Trust, has well-marked, gentler trails across open moorland, like the popular 4.2-mile Ridge Trail which provides stunning views without a major ascent.
What kind of terrain should I expect on the Comber Greenway?
The Comber Greenway follows the path of an old railway line, so the terrain is almost entirely flat and paved. It's a smooth, traffic-free surface suitable for walkers of all abilities, as well as cyclists and families with pushchairs.
Where can I find more detailed maps of the trails in Stormont Estate?
Stormont Estate has six distinct walking trails of varying lengths. For a detailed overview of these routes, you can download an official map directly from the nidirect website. You can find it here: Stormont Estate Walking Trails Map.
Are there any good places for trail running near Ballybeen?
Yes, the area offers excellent options for trail runners. The Comber Greenway provides a long, flat, and uninterrupted route perfect for distance running. For those who prefer varied terrain and hills, the network of paths in Redburn Country Park and the trails at National Trust Lisnabreeny Cregagh Glen are popular choices.
What should I pack for a hike in the hills around Ballybeen?
For hikes in the nearby hills like Cave Hill or Divis Mountain, it's wise to be prepared for changing weather. Always wear sturdy walking shoes or boots. We recommend packing waterproof layers, even on a clear day, along with water, snacks, and a fully charged phone. The terrain can be uneven and exposed.
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