The best walks and hikes around Knocknagoney
4.5
(206)
4,572
hikers
267
hikes
Hikes near Knocknagoney explore a landscape of urban parkland, country parks, and greenways on the eastern edge of Belfast. The area is characterized by accessible woodland trails, relatively flat lakeside paths, and routes that climb hills for views over Belfast Lough. The terrain offers a mix of paved surfaces and natural paths suitable for a range of walking abilities.
Best hiking trails around Knocknagoney
- The most popular hiking route is Redburn Country Park, a 2.9 mile (4.7 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 25 minutes to complete. The route involves a climb through woodland to a viewpoint.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Victoria Park loop, an easy 2.1 mile (3.4 km) path. This is a mostly flat walk around a central lake, known for its birdlife.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Bear Pit loop from Holywood, a 5.2 mile (8.4 km) trail leading through woodland, often completed in about 2 hours 25 minutes.
- Hiking around Knocknagoney is defined by woodland walks, lakeside paths, and trails with views of Belfast Lough. The network of routes provides options for both short, easy walks and more moderate hikes.
- The routes in Knocknagoney are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 280 reviews. More than 5,500 hikers have used komoot to explore Knocknagoney's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
4.9
(7)
103
hikers
4.67km
01:23
150m
150m
Redburn Country Park offers a rewarding hiking experience with varied terrain and stunning views over Belfast Lough. This easy 2.9-mile (4.7 km) route, which you can complete in about 1 hour and 23 minutes, includes peaceful walks through parkland and mixed woodland. You will encounter some short, steep climbs and descents, especially the initial ascent from the main car park, gaining 483 feet (147 metres) in elevation. The surface can be uneven, with exposed roots and potentially muddy sections after rain, so wear appropriate footwear.
When planning your visit, be aware that the trails feature moderately challenging sections, including narrow gates, stiles, and steps. The park's pathways can be slippery or muddy, particularly after wet weather, so check conditions before you go. While some parts are gentle, the steeper climbs provide a good workout, making it suitable for various fitness levels. Consider visiting in spring to witness the beautiful display of bluebells, wood sorrel, and anemones.
Redburn Country Park is notable for its incredible panoramic views of Belfast and the south Antrim hills from the escarpment. It is also a significant ecological space, home to a resident population of red squirrels, rabbits, and numerous bird species like tits and finches. Beyond hiking, you can enjoy bird watching, plane spotting due to its proximity to Belfast City Airport, and kite flying, with dedicated bridle paths also available for horse riding.
5.0
(2)
87
hikers
3.44km
00:52
0m
0m
The Victoria Park loop offers an easy hike, covering 2.1 miles (3.4 km) with a minimal elevation gain of 15 feet (4 metres), making it a pleasant stroll that takes about 52 minutes to complete. This gentle route is perfect for a quick escape into nature, providing a serene experience without significant physical challenge. You will find yourself on well-maintained paths, enjoying the calm atmosphere of the park.
Planning your visit to the Victoria Park loop is straightforward due to its easy accessibility. The trail is suitable for most visitors, including those with limited mobility, ensuring a comfortable experience for everyone. You can enjoy this loop at any time of day, as its short duration and easy terrain make it a convenient option for a leisurely walk.
This particular Victoria Park loop stands out for its accessibility and ease, contrasting with other more challenging trails found in parks of the same name. It provides a tranquil setting for a brief outdoor activity, ideal for unwinding or a casual outing. The park's design focuses on providing a relaxing environment, making it a local favorite for those seeking a gentle and enjoyable walk.
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4.5
(2)
66
hikers
21.3km
05:31
120m
120m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
27
hikers
8.40km
02:23
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
19
hikers
3.62km
01:08
140m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This is the first time I have used this app, and as I have asthma, I need to be mindful of the routes I take. It was listed as easy, but the path from the small car park was steep and uneven. It is irresponsible to list this incorrectly. Get a grip of yourselves!!
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The orchids can be hard to spot in the longer grass, but look where the grass is lower and you might get lucky.
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Helen's Bay Beach is one of two excellent beaches found in Crawfordsburn Country Park. These beautiful sandy beaches are by far the best within the Belfast area and as such are exceptionally popular and well used. Helen's Bay Beach is gently shelving and has excellent water quality making it ideal for bathing. The country park provides an excellent back drop to the beach, with wooded headlands, meadows, quality walks and good facilities. There are disabled toilets and disabled parking a short distance from the beach. A path suitable for wheelchair users leads from the car park to a path running adjacent to it. Nearby Crawfordsburn Country Park has a Cafe / Restaurant, Car Parking, Picnic Sites,Toilets, and a Visitor Centre.
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The centre of Victoria Park is home to a beautiful meadow displaying a sensational display of seasonal flowers. Refresh your senses with the various smells and colours that accompany it.
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It's hard to imagine you're still in a city when your running through the serene woodland paths around Victoria Park. The route is entirely flat making it ideal for a jog and the scenery is simply superb.
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This impressive fort was built in the 20th century and is one of the best preserved forts in the British Isles! It played a huge role in the defenses of Belfast during WW1 & WW2.
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It's hard to imagine you're still in a city when your walking through the serene woodland paths around Victoria Park. The route is entirely flat making it ideal for a leisurely stroll and the scenery is simply superb.
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The centre of Victoria Park is home to a beautiful meadow displaying a sensational display of seasonal flowers. Refresh your senses with the various smells and colours that accompany it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks around Knocknagoney?
Yes, the area is great for families. The Victoria Park loop is an excellent choice. It's a flat, accessible path around a lake that's perfect for all ages and abilities. The park is also a haven for wildlife, especially birds, which can be fun for children to spot.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Most parks and greenways in the Knocknagoney area, such as Redburn Country Park and the Comber Greenway, are dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a lead, especially in areas with wildlife or near other walkers. Please be mindful of local signage regarding specific dog restrictions.
Which hikes offer the best views?
For panoramic views over Belfast Lough, the south Antrim hills, and even Scotland on a clear day, the trails in Redburn Country Park are your best bet. The climb through the woodland is rewarded with stunning scenery. The Redburn Viewpoint loop is a great option that takes you directly to a fantastic vantage point.
Are there good circular walks in the area?
Absolutely. Many of the popular routes are loops. Besides the main park trails, you could try the Bear Pit loop from Holywood. It's a moderate walk of about 8.4 km that takes you through pleasant woodland scenery.
Where can I park for hikes around Knocknagoney?
Most of the main parks have dedicated parking areas. Redburn Country Park has a car park, as does Stormont Estate and Victoria Park. For other popular spots like Divis and the Black Mountain, be aware that car parks can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
Is it possible to reach the hiking trails using public transport?
Yes, due to its location on the edge of Belfast, many trailheads are accessible via public transport. Bus routes serve the areas around Stormont Estate, Victoria Park, and Redburn Country Park. The Comber Greenway is also easily reached from various points in East Belfast.
What is the general difficulty of the trails?
The trails around Knocknagoney cater to a wide range of fitness levels. The majority of the routes are rated as easy, featuring flat paths like those in Victoria Park or along the Comber Greenway. There are also a good number of moderate trails with some steeper climbs, particularly in Redburn Country Park.
How many hiking trails are available near Knocknagoney?
There's a wide variety of options to explore. You can find over 280 hiking routes in the area, ranging from short park strolls to more extensive woodland and coastal paths.
What do other hikers think of the trails in this region?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful woodland scenery, and the rewarding views over Belfast Lough from the higher trails.
Are there options for longer, more challenging hikes?
Yes, if you're looking for a full day of walking, the Crawfordsburn Beach – Grey Point Fort loop from Holywood is a great choice. This difficult-rated hike covers over 21 km and offers lovely coastal scenery.
What kind of wildlife might I see?
The area is rich in flora and fauna. In Redburn Country Park, you might spot red squirrels and various woodland birds, with a beautiful carpet of bluebells in the spring. Victoria Park is part of an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) and is fantastic for birdwatching, with swans, geese, ducks, and herons often seen on the lake.
Are there any historical sites to see on the walks?
Yes, the grounds of the Stormont Estate offer a series of waymarked trails that take you past the iconic Parliament Buildings, as well as various statues and memorials. It provides a unique opportunity to combine a walk with a piece of Northern Ireland's history.
Most popular attractions around Knocknagoney
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