Walking in our Borough

Download map

Download Crumlin map

Carnmoney Hill is one of a chain of hills, steeped in history and biodiversity, which watch over Belfast.  This woodland Trust managed site has recently been designated a Local Nature Reserve, which celebrates the value of this site for both people and wildlife.  Walking trails through the site are available for all abilities, with some leading to the summit for spectacular views of Belfast Lough and beyond.  While enjoying the walks, visitors will also experience ancient woodland, mature hedgerows, wetlands and open water and, if you are quiet, the wildlife these habitats support!

Monkstown Wood is a Woodland Trust owned site which consists of a linear path through a range of habitats including a river corridor, hedgerows, semi-natural woodland and open spaces.  This area is a gentle walk suitable for people of all abilities and the range of habitats will allow the visitor to appreciate the importance of natural open space within this densely populated area.  The range of habitats also provide an important resource and great transport corridor for our local wildlife. 

Antrim Walking Group
The Antrim Walking group have over 100 active members. Exploring many of the hidden jewels of the Antrim countryside and beyond, the walks are free of charge, last roughly one hour and are led by trained walk leaders.
View programme >> Antrim Walking Group Programme Feb-Aug 2022
For further information contact: Michael Coote T. 07880 715 143

Newtownabbey Walking
Group in partnership with Tesco Meeting every Monday in Tesco Newtownabbey at 10am, the short walk takes you through the picturesque Valley Park before returning to Tesco for some healthy refreshments.
Forfurther information contact: Vicki Carson T. 028 9334 1818 or E. vicki.carson@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk
Newtownabbey Walking for Health Group Meeting at 10.15am on Wednesday or 7pm Tuesday evenings, everyone is welcome to join the walks. For further details contact Lynn Dunwoody (Walk Leader) T. 07860 699187 or E. l.dunwoody@ulster.ac.uk.

Newtownabbey Senior Citizens Forum Walking Group
Meets Monday (for everyone) and Wednesday (men only) 2:15pm at various locations. For a copy of the walk programme or for more information call the Newtownabbey Senior Citizens Forum T. 028 9083 8848 or drop into their office at Baron Hall, 230 Antrim Road, Glengormley.

East Antrim Rambling Club
Founded in 1979, this club organises various programmes of walks thoughout the year including Sundays, Wednesday evenings (April - September) and Wednesday mornings (October - March).
For more information log onto www.earc.org.uk

A 430 acre mixed conifer forest that contains an owl conservation centre, deer park and several walking routes. Within the deer enclosure, there is the opportunity to quietly and safely observe up to 25 resident fallow deer. There are also two small adjacent nature reserves at the forest edge on the shores of Lough Neagh. The forest is sign posted off the Staffordstown Road.

2.5 miles / 4 km

25 Mount Shalgus Ln, Randalstown, BT41 3LE

A National Nature Reserve located at the north-east corner of Lough Neagh, Rea's Wood is a great example of wet woodland and has a rich diversity of wildlife present.

To get there, follow the signs to the Lough Shore Park off the Dublin Road in Antrim. On reaching the Park, turn left continuing to the car park that looks out over Lough Neagh. As you look over the water, Rea’s Wood lies to your left.

1.8 miles / 2.9 km

72 Lough Road, Antrim, BT41 4DQ

The Trail can be accessed from Antrim Town Centre. From High Street in Antrim town centre, turn right into Riverside. Alternatively, you can park your car at Kirby’s Lane then walk in either direction.

This linear walk along the banks of the Sixmilewater starts from the Lough Shore Park, Antrim which is signed off the Dublin Road.

The total walking route is 10km, however the walk can be shortened by starting or stopping at any of the access points along the route, including Antrim town centre.

6.2 miles / 10 km

One of Northern Ireland’s oldest forests, Tardree is a prominent feature on the M2 between Antrim and Templepatrick.

The forest hosts a healthy wildlife population with numerous bird species present. The forest also provides a
place of relaxation and recreation for many visitors, offering panoramic views over County Antrim and Lough Neagh. In Parkgate turn left onto Connor Road. After 5km turn right, following the forest sign.

2.5 miles / 4 km

This is a 2km walk to the shores of Lough Neagh along the banks of the Toome Canal.

On the right hand side are the remains of the old railway bridge over the Bann and there is a viewpoint providing panoramic views over the Lough.

In Toome, turn left at the sign for canoe trail, the entrance is on the left.

1.2 miles / 2 km