The best walks and hikes around Ballycloghan
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(218)
4,513
hikers
18
hikes
Hiking around Ballycloghan offers access to diverse green spaces, historic sites, and natural features within County Down. The area features well-maintained paths through landscaped parks and converted greenways. Notable landscapes include the Stormont Estate with its woodlands and historic monuments, and the Comber Greenway, a traffic-free corridor along an old railway line. The region provides a mix of urban green corridors and parkland scenery, with the River Enler flowing through areas like Moat Park.
Best hiking trails around Ballycloghan
- The…
Last updated: May 10, 2026
13
hikers
10.7km
02:49
100m
100m
Hike the 6.6-mile Belmont Park and Stormont Estate Loop in Belfast, featuring wooded parkland, wildflowers, and views of the Parliament Buil
5.0
(1)
56
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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38
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
23
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
6.77km
01:45
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The paths meander through lush greenery that makes you feel like you're far away from the city. A well-kept park that offers space for both exercise and relaxed rolling. The tree-lined avenues are particularly beautiful - perfect for cycling in the interplay of light and shadow. The route also runs along the Connswater Community Greenway, a green corridor through Belfast that beautifully connects Orangefield Park with other green areas of the city. The evening atmosphere with the play of light on the manicured lawn and the clouds over Belfast is definitely worth a moment to pause - a calm contrast to the otherwise busy city. Ideal for a relaxed ride in the early morning or to wind down in the evening without being too far away.
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Here, in the middle of the city, the characters from The Chronicles of Narnia come to life in the form of impressive bronze sculptures. As a cyclist, you pass right by the square and can pause for a moment to immerse yourself in this fantastic world. The sculptures of Aslan, the mighty lion, and the White Witch's throne in particular attract attention. The details of the figures are impressive and give the characters a special presence. The square is not only a place for literature lovers, but also an interesting work of art in the open air - a change from the usual sights. CS Lewis, the famous writer and son of the city, is omnipresent here and also makes this place a small piece of Belfast history.
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Located in East Belfast, Belmont Park is a pleasant park with a large network of paths, grassland and gorgeous seasonal bluebell meadows.
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Throughout WWI, many bombes were dropped in Belfast, along with land mines placed throughout the city and surrounding areas. While most areas have been refilled since the war, this spot is unique as it still remains how it was as a bomb crater from the war.
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The park has an ecotrail, outdoor gym and children's playground. The park also contains Orangefield Playing Fields with a bowling green, tennis courts, soccer pitches and a Velodrome !
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The Velodrome has to be booked through Belfast City Councils webpage ( book the football pitch for entry to Velodrome ) https://www.belfastcity.gov.uk/Things-to-Do/Outdoor-leisure-activities/Sports-pitches-and-facilities/Book-a-pitch
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This trail will take you to the places that inspired the young C.S. Lewis, one of our most famous literary sons, best known for his magical world of Narnia. Clive Staples Lewis was born in Belfast on 29 November 1898 and grew up in family homes on Dundela Avenue and Circular Road in the east of the city. The trail starts at 'The Searcher' sculpture outside Holywood Arches Library on the Holywood Road and includes sites such as C.S. Lewis Square (containing 7 Narnia inspired sculptures), St. Mark's Church, where his grandfather was rector and where Lewis himself was baptised, and No. 47 Dundela Avenue where a Blue Plaque marks where the writer was born.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Ballycloghan?
There are over 20 hiking routes available around Ballycloghan, catering to various preferences. Most of these, 13 to be exact, are classified as easy, while 7 are moderate. There are no difficult trails in this area, making it suitable for a wide range of hikers.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in Ballycloghan?
Yes, Ballycloghan offers many easy, family-friendly options. The Statue of Sir Edward Carson – Stormont Estate loop from Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs is an easy 2.8 km trail within the accessible green spaces of the Stormont Estate, perfect for a shorter outing. The Stormont Estate itself has well-maintained paths and woodlands suitable for families.
What are some highlights or points of interest I can see while hiking in Ballycloghan?
Ballycloghan's trails often feature historical and natural points of interest. Within the Stormont Estate, you can explore the Parliament Buildings, the Prince of Wales Avenue, a rose garden, and even a World War II bomb crater. The Stormont Estate is rich in history and natural beauty. Additionally, the Comber Greenway offers views of the Parliament Buildings and the Belfast Hills, and connects to Dundonald Moat Park, a historic motte-and-bailey with panoramic views.
Are there any circular walks available in the Ballycloghan area?
Yes, many of the trails around Ballycloghan are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Belmont Park and Stormont Estate Loop, a moderate 10.7 km route that explores the extensive parklands. Another easy circular walk is the Statue of Sir Edward Carson – Stormont Estate loop from Parliament Buildings, which is 5.7 km long.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Ballycloghan?
The trails in Ballycloghan are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 280 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the accessible green spaces, and the blend of natural scenery with historic landmarks, particularly within the Stormont Estate and along the Comber Greenway.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Ballycloghan?
Many of the green spaces and trails in Ballycloghan, such as the Stormont Estate and the Comber Greenway, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with wildlife or other visitors, and to check specific park regulations before your visit. Always clean up after your pet.
Are there any trails that offer views of lakes or natural monuments?
While Ballycloghan itself is more focused on parklands and greenways, you can find views of natural monuments and lakes nearby. For example, the Dundonald Moat Park offers sightlines to Scrabo Tower. For specific lakes, you might explore highlights like Victoria Park Lake or Kiltonga Nature Reserve Lake, which are accessible from the wider region.
Are there any trails that are particularly accessible for different abilities?
The Comber Greenway is an excellent option for accessibility. It's a 7-mile (11 km) traffic-free path following an old railway line, known for its relatively flat and smooth surface, making it suitable for various abilities, including those with pushchairs or wheelchairs. The Stormont Estate also features well-maintained, paved paths that are generally accessible.
Where can I find parking for hikes near Ballycloghan?
Parking is generally available at key access points for popular hiking areas. For instance, the Stormont Estate has designated parking facilities for visitors. For the Comber Greenway, you can often find parking near its entry points in Belfast or Comber, or at connecting parks like Dundonald Moat Park.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see while hiking in Ballycloghan?
The green spaces around Ballycloghan, particularly along the River Enler and within the Stormont Estate's woodlands, support local wildlife. You might spot various bird species, small mammals, and diverse plant life. Dundonald Moat Park even features a dedicated wildlife garden designed to attract different plants and animals.
Are there any historical sites to explore on the trails?
Absolutely. The Stormont Estate is home to the iconic Parliament Buildings and other historic monuments. Dundonald Moat Park features a 13th-century motte-and-bailey, also known as Dundonald Fort, offering a glimpse into the area's past. The Comber Greenway itself follows an old railway line, providing a historical context to your walk.
Is there a trail that passes by C.S. Lewis Square?
Yes, you can hike a loop that includes C.S. Lewis Square. The C.S. Lewis Square loop from Campbell College is an easy 6.8 km trail that takes you past this notable attraction, featuring bronze statues of characters from *The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe*.
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