The best walks and hikes around Ballycullen
4.7
(104)
2,324
hikers
112
hikes
Hikes near Ballycullen Dublin provide access to the foothills of the Dublin Mountains. The area's terrain is defined by a mix of woodland paths, rolling hills, and reservoir trails. Key areas for walking trails include Ticknock Forest, Massy's Estate, and Cruagh Wood, all offering routes with varied elevation and scenery.
Best hiking trails around Ballycullen
- The most popular hiking route is Floodgates Walk — Strangford & Lecale, a 4.1 mile (6.6 km) trail that takes around 1 hour 40 minutes to complete. This is a mostly flat route with minimal elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Scrabo Tower loop from Newtownards, an easy 3.9 mile (6.3 km) path. The trail involves a gradual climb to the tower.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Killynether Wood and Scrabo Tower — Strangford & Lecale, a 2.5 mile (4.0 km) trail leading through Killynether Wood, often completed in about 1 hour 10 minutes.
- Hiking around Ballycullen is defined by woodland walks, reservoir paths, and routes leading to viewpoints over the city. The network of trails offers options for different ability levels, from easy family-friendly walks to more moderate hill climbs.
- The routes in Ballycullen are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 2,400 hikers have used komoot to explore Ballycullen's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
5.0
(1)
43
hikers
6.58km
01:40
10m
10m
Hike the easy Floodgates Walk in Strangford & Lecale AONB, offering 4.1 miles of scenic views over Strangford Lough and abundant wildlife.
5.0
(1)
4
hikers
4.01km
01:11
120m
120m
Hike through Killynether Wood and ascend to Scrabo Tower for panoramic views over Strangford Lough on this easy 2.5-mile trail.
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5.0
(2)
55
hikers
6.28km
01:51
180m
180m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
49
hikers
4.07km
01:11
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
hikers
6.94km
01:55
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Follow this flat, paved path along the northern strand of Strangford Lough near Newtownwards. You're afforded great views out over the water and also of Scrabo Tower, which looms above the town.
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Always worth the ascent. If only for the view towards Sliev Croob and the Mournes. Beautiful patch work of swollen hills, cut by colourful fields, that meander all the way to the shore of Strangford Lough below. There are several interesting woodland gravel trails in the woods, connecting to Scrabo, and Ards. Twilight is magic up here. Smooth tarmac Decent down to Ards via Scrabo Road is a joy, with the tower on your left, and the sprawling Lough, and Newtownards to your right.
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There is a decent sized network of Woodland Gravel trails in Killynether that connect to the old Quarry Path, and Scrabo Tower.
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Scrabo Tower is an impressive 19th century folly that stands on Scrabo Hill in County Down. It is one of the most well-known landmarks in Northern Ireland. Inside the tower is an exhibition and short video explaining its history and outside the tower you can enjoy some incredible views over Strangford Lough and the surrounding countryside
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It's a peaceful encounter trailing through the woods of Killynether. The woods are on the grounds of a former estate and the beautiful medley of flowers and trees is the result of some keen planters back in the 19th century.
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19th-century folly and lookout tower near Bangor. Named after the 5th Baron's mother, Helen. He intended it as a shrine for poems - Tennyson's Helen's Tower is the best known of them. Well worth a stop off to explore the architecture.
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A lovely walk especially from Helens Bay - through rolling country side, however there is no signage but reasonable easy to follow - that is until to come to Helen's Tower - if you find it give yourself a Mars bar and if you manage to find your way to your cat at Whitespots car park - give yourself two Mars bars. Enjoy :-)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks near Ballycullen?
Yes, the area has many options suitable for families. The Floodgates Walk — Strangford & Lecale is a great choice, being mostly flat and manageable for all ages. Another popular spot is the Bohernabreena Reservoir Walk, which offers a pleasant and easy stroll by the water that's perfect for kids.
Which hikes offer the best views of Dublin?
For panoramic views over Dublin City, the trails in Ticknock Forest are excellent. The hike to the summit of Two Rock Mountain, known as Fairy Castle, is particularly rewarding on a clear day, offering vistas that stretch out to Howth. The walk up to the Hell Fire Club on Montpelier Hill also provides commanding views of the city and surrounding landscape.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails around Ballycullen?
Many trails in the Dublin Mountains are dog-friendly, but it's important to check specific regulations for each area. Massy's Estate and Cruagh Wood are popular with dog walkers. Always keep your dog under control, especially near wildlife or livestock, and be prepared to use a leash as required by local signage.
How can I get to the Dublin Mountains using public transport from Ballycullen?
Accessing the trailheads by public transport requires some planning. Several Dublin Bus routes serve the areas near the foothills, such as Tallaght or Rathfarnham, from which you might need a taxi or a long walk to reach specific trailheads like Ticknock or the Hell Fire Club. It's best to check Dublin Bus timetables for routes that get you closest to your desired starting point.
Where is the best place to park for hikes in the Dublin Mountains?
There are several dedicated car parks for the main hiking areas. Tibradden Wood has a well-regarded free car park that provides access to the Dublin Mountain Way. Ticknock Forest also has a large car park, though it can get very busy, especially on weekends. For the Hell Fire Club, there is a specific car park at the base of Montpelier Hill. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Are there any good circular walks in the area?
Yes, loop walks are very common. The Scrabo Tower – Killynether Wood loop from Scrabo Tower is a well-liked circular route. Additionally, Carrickgollogan Forest Trail is a popular and relatively easy loop that can be completed in about an hour and a half.
What are some good places for hiking near Ballycullen?
Ballycullen is a gateway to several excellent hiking areas in the Dublin Mountains.
Massy's Estate is a local favourite for its beautiful woodland paths. Tibradden Wood is highly rated for its great views and access to the Dublin Mountain Way. For a waterside walk, the Bohernabreena Reservoir Walk is a peaceful option. The Carrickgollogan Forest Trail offers a pleasant loop with rewarding views from the top.
What is the trail to the Hell Fire Club like?
The walk to the Hell Fire Club on Montpelier Hill is a steady uphill climb on a forest road and path. It's a relatively short but steep hike that leads to the atmospheric ruins of the 18th-century hunting lodge. The effort is rewarded with fantastic views over Dublin.
Are there any walks near Ballycullen with a pub at the end?
Several trails are located a short drive from traditional pubs. After a hike in the Dublin Mountains, many people visit pubs in nearby villages like Glencullen or Rathfarnham. For example, after exploring the trails around Tibradden or Cruagh, you can find welcoming pubs a few minutes away by car.
Is the Ballycullen area good for trail running?
Yes, the varied terrain of the Dublin Mountains makes it a popular destination for trail runners. The forest paths in Ticknock, Cruagh Wood, and Massy's Estate offer a mix of gentle gradients and more challenging climbs, suitable for different levels of trail running experience.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Ballycullen?
The trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning panoramic views over Dublin, the mix of peaceful woodland walks, and the accessibility of the mountains from the city.
How many hiking trails are there around Ballycullen?
There is a wide variety of trails to explore, with over 100 routes mapped on komoot. These range from 81 easy walks suitable for most fitness levels to 34 moderate hikes and a few difficult trails for more experienced hikers.
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