The best walks and hikes around Shankill

Yes, the Shankill area has several easy walks perfect for a family outing. A great option is the Castle Archdale loop, which is a gentle and relatively short trail. Many of the paths in Carrickgollogan Forest are also suitable for all ages, offering a chance to explore the woodlands without a strenuous climb.

Most of the public trails in the forests and hills around Shankill, such as Carrickgollogan and Barnaslingan, are welcoming to dogs. However, they should be kept on a lead, especially in areas with wildlife like the feral goats in Barnaslingan Wood or near farmland. Always be prepared to clean up after your pet.

For panoramic views, the short climb to the summit of Carrickgollogan hill is highly recommended. From the top, you get breathtaking vistas across South Dublin, the Irish Sea, and North Wicklow. Nearby Killiney Hill Park is another local favourite, offering fantastic views from its obelisk.

If you're looking for a trail that includes a waterfall, the Blackslee Waterfall loop from Derrygonnelly is a great choice. This moderate walk takes you through a forest environment to the scenic waterfall.

Shankill is well-connected by public transport, making it an excellent base for hiking without a car. The DART rail line stops in Shankill, providing easy access to the village and the start of the Dublin Mountains Way. Several Dublin Bus routes also serve the area, getting you close to trailheads for Carrickgollogan and Barnaslingan.

You'll find a good mix of both. For a substantial circular route, consider the Rossmore Point Beacon – Old Castle Archdale Ruins loop from Lisnarrick, which combines woodland and lakeside paths. Many trails within Carrickgollogan Forest, like the Lead Mines Way, are also loops. The Dublin Mountains Way, which starts in Shankill, is a linear long-distance path.

The area is rich in history. The most prominent site is the 19th-century Lead Mines Chimney in Carrickgollogan Forest. For older history, the trails around Rathmichael will lead you past the remains of an early Christian church, the stump of a round tower, and a hillfort. You can also explore historic ruins on the Tully Castle Ruins loop from Derrygonnelly.

The Scalp is a dramatic, narrow, and rocky valley formed by glacial meltwater during the Ice Age. It's a unique geological feature located in Barnaslingan Wood, adjacent to Carrickgollogan. You can experience it by following the Scalp Lookout Trail, which offers stunning views into the rocky pass from a dedicated viewing point.

The trails around Shankill are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars. Hikers often praise the variety of scenery, from the coastal paths to the woodland trails of the Dublin Mountains. The excellent signposting on routes like the Dublin Mountains Way and the panoramic views from Carrickgollogan are frequently mentioned as highlights.

After exploring the trails, you can find several welcoming pubs in Shankill village and the surrounding areas. Brady's of Shankill is a popular local spot to relax and refuel. If your walk takes you towards Bray, you'll find a wide selection of pubs and restaurants there as well.

The full Dublin Mountains Way is a 42-kilometer (26-mile) long-distance trail that stretches from Shankill in the east to Tallaght in the west. It's designed to be walked in sections, and the portion starting from Shankill offers a great introduction to the route.

Yes, there are plenty of options for a shorter walk. The Rossmore Point Beacon loop from Lisnarrick is a pleasant, easy walk that can be completed in about an hour. The Lead Mines Way in Carrickgollogan Forest is another excellent short loop, at just over 2 kilometers.