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United Kingdom
Northern Ireland
Down

Ballywalter

The best walks and hikes around Ballywalter

4.5

(48)

522

hikers

32

hikes

Hiking around Ballywalter offers a blend of coastal and rural landscapes on the Ards Peninsula. The region features scenic coastal walks, sandy beaches, and tranquil countryside. These areas provide diverse ecosystems with varied bird life and flora, making them suitable for outdoor exploration.

Best hiking trails around Ballywalter

  • The most popular hiking route is Castle Ward Hoof Trail, a 7.6 miles (12.2 km) trail that takes 3 hours 16 minutes to complete. This moderate route explores the extensive grounds…

Last updated: May 15, 2026

4.6

(11)

50

hikers

#1.

Castle Ward Hoof Trail

12.2km

03:17

150m

150m

Embark on the Castle Ward Hoof Trail, a moderate hiking route spanning 7.6 miles (12.2 km) with an elevation gain of 483 feet (147 metres). You can expect to complete…

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Moderate

4.7

(3)

75

hikers

4.66km

01:15

60m

60m

Discover the easy Castle Ward Farm Trail, a delightful hike spanning 2.9 miles (4.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 201 feet (61 metres). This route typically takes about…

Easy
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5.0

(3)

26

hikers

Embark on the Castle Ward Boundary Trail, a moderate hiking route that guides you through a diverse landscape of mature woodlands, active farmlands, and historic grounds. As you hike, you…

Moderate

Embark on a moderate hike along the Ballyhornan to St Patrick's Well section of the Lecale Way, covering 6.0 miles (9.6 km) with an elevation gain of 126 feet (38…

Moderate

Embark on the Lough Money loop from St. Patrick's Road, a moderate hiking route that spans 7.3 miles (11.8 km). You will experience the diverse beauty of County Down, Northern…

Moderate
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Popular around Ballywalter

Cycling around Ballywalter

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Tips from the Community

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December 24, 2023, Audley's Castle

Wikipedia (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%27s_Castle https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%E2%80%99s_Castle Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/audleys-castle-p707501 Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Visit Game of Thrones - Filming Locations, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/blog/read/2020/06/visit-game-of-thrones-filming-locations-b147 ā€œā€¦ Within the Castle Ward demesne, you can make your way over to Audley's Field where Robb Stark meets Talisa after the battle at Oxcross. ā€¦ā€œ #GoT #BattleOfOxcross #WarOfTheFiveKings

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Great place for a run along the coastline.

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0

Best known for its role as "Winterfell" in Game of Thrones, Castle Ward is an 18th-century National Trust property located in Strangford. With its distinctive blend of classical and gothic styles, the castle and its estate grace the picturesque shores of Strangford Lough. Tours of the castle and estate are available year-round. For more information, visit: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/castle-ward

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1

Portnacoo is a small cove with a raised beach found along the Ballyhornan to Sheeplands path in Northern Ireland. It's a lovely spot to stop and have some lunch, or you could even brave a swim.

2

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St Patrick's Well stands on a seashore near the townlands of Ardtole and Sheepland East on the Northern Ireland coast. The well is said to have healing properties and has been an ancient site of pilgrimage for many years.

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oliviakellis
October 4, 2023, Lough Money

Lough Money, nestled in County Antrim, is a picturesque freshwater lake. Surrounded by lush greenery and offering tranquillity, it's a favoured spot for fishing, picnics, and nature enthusiasts.

1

0

Best known for its place as "Winterfell" in Game of Thrones, Castle Ward is an 18th-century National Trust property in Strangford. With two unique styles of classical and gothic, the castle & its estate is located in a beautiful location near the shore of Strangford Lough. Tours are available year round of the castle and estate.

3

1

Wikipedia (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%27s_Castle https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%E2%80%99s_Castle Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/audleys-castle-p707501 Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Visit Game of Thrones - Filming Locations, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/blog/read/2020/06/visit-game-of-thrones-filming-locations-b147 ā€œā€¦ Within the Castle Ward demesne, you can make your way over to Audley's Field where Robb Stark meets Talisa after the battle at Oxcross. ā€¦ā€œ #GoT #BattleOfOxcross #WarOfTheFiveKings

2

2

Frequently Asked Questions

How many hiking trails are available around Ballywalter?

There are over 30 hiking routes in the Ballywalter area, offering a mix of coastal and countryside experiences. These trails cater to various skill levels, with 20 easy routes and 12 moderate options.

What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking near Ballywalter?

Hiking around Ballywalter offers a diverse blend of scenic coastal landscapes, including sandy beaches and sea views, alongside tranquil countryside. The region is part of the Ards Peninsula, providing varied ecosystems with notable bird life and flora.

Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Ballywalter?

Yes, Ballywalter has several easy routes suitable for families. For instance, the Castle Ward Farm Trail is an easy 4.7 km path that winds through farmland and woodland, offering a gentle outdoor experience for all ages.

What do other hikers say about the trails in Ballywalter?

The hiking routes in Ballywalter are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 40 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, from coastal paths to serene countryside, and the well-maintained estate grounds.

Are there any circular walks available around Ballywalter?

Yes, there are circular routes to enjoy. An example is the Lough Money loop from St. Patrick's Road, which is a moderate 11.7 km trail that allows you to return to your starting point.

What are some notable attractions or landmarks I can see while hiking in the area?

The area around Ballywalter is rich in historical sites and natural beauty. You can explore places like Castle Ward, which includes the Castle Ward Tower (a Winterfell Filming Location), and Audley's Castle. These are often accessible or visible from various trails, such as the Castle Ward Hoof Trail.

Are there any trails that offer views of the Irish Sea?

Yes, Ballywalter is known for its scenic coastal walks and sandy beaches along the Irish Sea. Many trails in the region provide opportunities to enjoy crisp sea air and expansive views of the coastline.

What is the best time of year to go hiking in Ballywalter?

Ballywalter's diverse ecosystems, with varied bird life and flora, make it an engaging destination for nature lovers throughout the year. The coastal paths and countryside offer different charms with the changing seasons, so it depends on your preference for weather and scenery.

Are there any longer, more challenging hikes available?

While Ballywalter primarily offers easy to moderate trails, some routes provide a good workout. For example, the Castle Ward Hoof Trail is a moderate 12.2 km route that takes approximately 3 hours 16 minutes to complete, exploring extensive grounds.

Can I find trails that are less crowded around Ballywalter?

Ballywalter offers a serene environment, especially beyond the immediate coastline. While popular spots like Castle Ward can attract visitors, the surrounding countryside and lesser-known paths often provide a tranquil experience for those seeking quieter trails.

Are there any trails that explore historical estates?

Yes, the area features trails that lead through historic estates. The Castle Ward Boundary Trail, for instance, is a 7.7 km route that takes you through the perimeter of the historic Castle Ward estate, offering a glimpse into its past.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on the trails?

The region around Ballywalter is noted for its diverse bird life, flora, and fauna. Hikers can often spot various bird species along the coastal paths and in the tranquil countryside, making it a rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts.

Most popular routes around Ballywalter

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