The best walks and hikes in Lagan Valley Aonb
4.4
(256)
5,244
hikers
44
hikes
Hikes in Lagan Valley AONB offer accessible routes through a landscape defined by the River Lagan. The area, located near Belfast and Lisburn, is characterized by its mix of riverside paths, woodlands, and open meadows. The terrain is generally flat with some gentle inclines, making it suitable for a wide range of walking abilities.
Best hiking trails in Lagan Valley Aonb
- The most popular hiking route is Lagan Towpath loop — Lagan Valley, a 2.5 mile (4.0 km) trail…
Last updated: April 25, 2026
3.7
(6)
77
hikers
3.99km
01:02
20m
20m
Embark on the Riverside Circular Walk, Minnowburn, an easy hike that guides you along the tranquil River Lagan. This route spans 2.5 miles (4.0 km) with a gentle elevation gain…
5.0
(3)
48
hikers
3.41km
00:54
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
21
hikers
8.01km
02:07
80m
80m
Hike a moderate 5.0-mile trail through Belvoir Park Forest and Lagan Meadows, enjoying woodland, river views, and historical sites.
12
hikers
18.3km
04:46
120m
120m
Hike the 11.4-mile Lagan Towpath and Barnett Demesne Loop, a moderate route combining riverside paths, parkland, and historic sites near Bel
5.0
(2)
7
hikers
7.41km
01:56
50m
50m
This easy 4.6-mile loop near Belfast offers diverse scenery, from riverside paths to woodlands, passing historic Malone House.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The facility is of impressive size.
3
0
The structure consists of a circular earthen ring with a diameter of 180 m and an area of 28,000 square meters, surrounded by an earthen rampart 3.5 m high. At least three of the five irregularly distributed gaps in the ring are intentional and possibly original. East of the center of the ring is a small passage grave with a westward-facing entrance.
4
0
Very nice cafe-restaurant with good food and beautiful garden
0
0
There is probably no better way to get to Belfast city centre by bike.
1
0
As you get closer, the mystical aura of the place unfolds, with its mighty, almost circular earthen wall, which measures over 180 meters in diameter and dominates the view over the surrounding plateau. This ancient henge complex is one of the largest and best-preserved monuments of its kind in Ireland - hard to miss when you get close to Shaw's Bridge. In the center of the ring, a megalithic tomb awaits you, which tells its own story with its five supporting stones and a mighty capstone. You can literally feel the thousands of years that have passed here since ceremonies and gatherings probably took place at this place. It is impressive how the Giant's Ring has survived over time, while the wooden structures of the Ballynahatty settlements are long gone.
1
0
Nice at any time of the year but Autumn is especially beautiful for a riverside run
0
0
A working forest just outside of Belfast dating back to 1961, Belvoir Park Forest is a gorgeous, lush forest park that overs 75 hectares alongside the south side of the River Lagan. The forest is also home to a number of historic sites, including the 12th century Norman motte.
2
0
The Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park is one of the most popular green spaces in Belfast. The park covers a huge area – 130 acres (52 ha) in total. The park has lots of diverse landscapes including woodland, formal rose gardens, meadows, riverside fields, a Japanese garden and a walled garden.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the walking trails in Lagan Valley AONB dog-friendly?
Yes, the Lagan Valley area is very popular with dog walkers. The wide, open paths of the towpath and parks like Lagan Meadows are ideal for walking with dogs. However, please keep them on a lead where signposted, especially near livestock, and be mindful of cyclists and other walkers.
What are some good circular walks in the Lagan Valley?
The area offers several excellent circular routes so you don't have to retrace your steps. For a walk that combines parkland, meadows, and riverside fields, the Sir Thomas & Lady Dixon Park loop is a great choice. Many trails in Belvoir Park Forest and Barnett Demesne also form loops.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the area?
The Lagan Valley is exceptionally well-suited for family outings. The majority of trails, particularly along the Lagan Towpath, are flat and accessible for all ages. The paths are generally wide and well-maintained, making them suitable for pushchairs and little legs.
How do I get to the Lagan Valley trails from Belfast using public transport?
The Lagan Valley's proximity to Belfast makes it very accessible. You can take a bus from the city centre to various points along the park, such as Stranmillis, Shaw's Bridge, or Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park. Check local Translink services for routes and timetables that stop near your desired starting point.
Where can I park to access the hiking trails?
There are numerous car parks available throughout the Lagan Valley Regional Park. Popular options include parking at Shaw's Bridge, the Lock Keeper's Cottage, Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park, and Belvoir Park Forest. Arrive early on weekends as they can fill up quickly.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Lagan Valley AONB?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.2 stars. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained, level paths of the towpath and the peaceful atmosphere of the woodlands, all conveniently located on the edge of the city.
How difficult are the hikes in Lagan Valley AONB?
The hikes are generally considered easy to moderate. The defining feature is the flat, extensive towpath system. While some woodland trails in areas like Belvoir Park Forest have gentle inclines, there are no difficult or mountainous routes, making it accessible for most fitness levels.
How does hiking in Lagan Valley compare to the Mourne Mountains?
They offer very different experiences. Lagan Valley provides gentle, accessible riverside and woodland walks on relatively flat terrain. The Mourne Mountains offer rugged, challenging mountain hiking with significant elevation gain and dramatic, rocky landscapes. Your choice depends on whether you want a peaceful, low-level walk or a strenuous mountain adventure.
Are there any historical sites to see while hiking?
Yes, the valley is rich in history. A must-see is the Neolithic henge monument on the Giant's Ring loop. You can also see remnants of the area's industrial past along the Lagan Canal, including restored locks and the Lock Keeper's Cottage.
What does AONB stand for?
AONB stands for 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty'. It is a designation for a precious landscape in the UK whose distinctive character and natural beauty are so outstanding that it is in the nation's interest to safeguard them.
Are there any long-distance hiking options in the area?
Yes, the Lagan Towpath itself stretches for 11 miles (17.7 km) between Belfast and Lisburn, providing a substantial linear walk. For a longer circular hike, you can combine sections of the towpath with woodland trails, such as the 11.4-mile Barnett Demesne loop from Lambeg.
Can I go cycling in Lagan Valley AONB?
Absolutely. The Lagan Towpath is a popular, shared-use path for both cyclists and walkers. Barnett Demesne also offers dedicated mountain bike trails for those seeking more of a challenge. Please be considerate of other path users, especially when cycling on the towpath.
Most popular routes in Lagan Valley Aonb
Most popular attractions in Lagan Valley Aonb
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
