The best walks and hikes around Cross Glebe

Yes, there are over 50 hiking routes to explore in the Cross Glebe area. The majority are easy or moderate, making the region very accessible. Most trails feature gentle terrain with low elevation gain, often following the River Bann or winding through local woodlands.

The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with over 900 visitors rating the routes with an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful riverside paths and the well-maintained woodland trails.

Absolutely. The region is well-suited for families, with 37 designated easy trails. A great option is the Mountsandel Fort – View of the River Bann loop from Coleraine. It's a short walk of about 2 miles (3.2 km) with lovely river views and minimal climbing, making it ideal for hikers of all ages.

Many trails in the area are suitable for walking with a dog, especially through the open forest parks and along the river. However, always check for local signage, particularly near farmland where livestock may be present. It's recommended to keep your dog on a lead to protect local wildlife.

Yes, loop trails are very common in the Cross Glebe area, allowing you to start and finish in the same spot without retracing your steps. The Motte and Bailey loop from Drumadragh is a pleasant circular route that explores the local countryside and historical features.

Besides the routes starting in Coleraine, hikers often explore nearby scenic areas. Popular spots include:

• Garvagh Forest: A local favourite known for its three scenic, color-coded trails through wonderful woodlands.
• Giant's Causeway Trails: Offers world-famous coastal views. The clifftop paths, like the Red Trail, provide breathtaking perspectives of the unique basalt columns.
• Shepherd's Steps: Part of the Giant's Causeway network, these steps connect the upper and lower paths and are a key feature of the highly-rated clifftop walk.

While most routes are gentle, there are a few longer options for those seeking more of a challenge. The Hiking loop from Coleraine is a moderate 5-mile (8.1 km) trail that provides a more extensive exploration of the riverside and woodlands than the shorter loops.

The terrain around Cross Glebe is mostly composed of gentle, rolling lowlands with forest paths and riverside trails. While many paths are well-maintained, some sections can be muddy, especially after rain. Sturdy walking shoes are sufficient for most routes, but waterproof hiking shoes or boots are recommended for comfort and grip in all conditions.

Many of the most popular trails start in or near the town of Coleraine, which is well-serviced by regional bus and train lines. From the town centre, you can often walk directly to the start of several routes, such as those entering Mountsandel Wood and Somerset Forest.

For trails starting from Coleraine, there are several public car parks within the town. For routes in specific parks like Garvagh Forest, you will typically find dedicated parking areas near the main entrance or trailhead. It's always a good idea to check your specific route on komoot for parking suggestions marked on the map.

Yes, since many trails are accessible from Coleraine, you'll find a wide selection of pubs, cafes, and restaurants in the town centre. This makes it easy to enjoy a meal or a drink after completing your walk along the River Bann or through the nearby forests.