Easy hikes and walks around Ballyharry
4.7
(84)
1,683
hikers
103
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Ballyharry offer access to a diverse landscape, characterized by ancient woodlands, gentle river floodplains, and modest hills. The region features a network of paths suitable for various fitness levels, often traversing natural habitats with diverse flora and fauna. While the broader area of County Kerry is known for its mountains and coastline, the immediate vicinity of Ballyharry provides more accessible, lower-elevation routes. These trails often follow established paths through wooded areas and open countryside.
Best easy…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
5.0
(1)
42
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.
13
hikers
4.78km
01:15
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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12
hikers
6.94km
01:55
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
3.60km
00:57
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
6.34km
01:45
110m
110m
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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Movilla was associated with Saint Finian in the 6th-century. As with many early monasteries, it was plundered by Vikings in the 9th century, but was refounded as an Augustinian abbey in the Norman 12th century and survived until the suppression of religious houses in the 1540s. It has the best collection of 13th Century coffin lids with foliate crosses in the Province. These are built into the inside north wall. Only one stone from the Pre-Norman period survives; it is marked with “Or do Dertrend”, “pray for Dertrend”. Later structures include the ruins of a 13th century church which was rebuilt in the 15th-century. A really fascinating stop.
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The grounds are huge and abound with history. You can only be struck by the character of the place. Especially considering the modern sprawl approaching the Abbeys walls.
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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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Part of the Clandeboyle Estate, between the golf courses, there are some nice off-road trails. Close to Helen's Tower, so worth factoring that in.
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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
How many easy hiking trails are available around Ballyharry?
Ballyharry offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with 74 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are over 100 hiking routes in the area, catering to various preferences.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on easy hikes in Ballyharry?
Easy hikes around Ballyharry primarily feature accessible woodland paths, gentle ascents to local hills, and routes through open countryside. The region is known for its ancient woodlands, such as Ballyseedy Woods, and integrated wetlands, offering diverse natural habitats.
Are there any easy circular walks recommended in Ballyharry?
Yes, there are several easy circular walks. A popular option is the Helen's Tower – Helen's Tower loop from Ballyskeagh Low, which is 2.5 miles (4.0 km) and takes about an hour to complete through wooded areas. Another is the Scrabo Tower loop from Newtownards, an easy 3.9 miles (6.3 km) path offering views from a hill under 200m.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Ballyharry?
The easy trails in Ballyharry are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 70 reviews. Hikers often praise the accessible woodland paths, the gentle nature of the ascents, and the well-maintained routes through open countryside, making them perfect for relaxed outings.
Are there any family-friendly easy hikes in the Ballyharry area?
Many of the easy trails are suitable for families. The paths through ancient woodlands like Ballyseedy Woods are particularly good, offering varying lengths and the chance to discover historical ruins and whimsical wood carvings. The new 5km looped trail connecting Ballygarry Estate to Ballyseedy Woods is also very accessible for all ages.
Can I find easy hikes with historical landmarks or points of interest?
Yes, the area around Ballyharry offers several interesting landmarks. You can explore sites like Helen's Tower, a historical site, or the impressive Ballycopeland Windmill. The Scrabo Tower loop from Newtownards also leads to a notable tower with scenic views.
Are there any easy trails that offer scenic viewpoints?
While Ballyharry's immediate vicinity features lower-elevation routes, the Scrabo Tower loop from Newtownards provides views from a hill under 200m. For broader panoramic views, the region's proximity to the Slieve Mish Mountains and the Wild Atlantic Way offers stunning vistas, though these may involve slightly more challenging sections on other routes.
What is the best time of year to enjoy easy hikes around Ballyharry?
The easy trails around Ballyharry can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and wildflowers, while autumn brings vibrant colors to the woodlands. Even in winter, the lower-elevation paths are generally accessible, though appropriate footwear is always recommended.
Are there any easy routes that pass by water features like rivers or coastlines?
Ballyseedy Woods lies on the floodplain of the River Lee and includes integrated wetlands, making it a great spot for walks alongside water. While the immediate easy trails may not reach the dramatic coastlines of the Wild Atlantic Way, the broader region is known for its captivating coastlines and beaches, such as those found on the North Kerry Way.
Are there any easy hikes that are suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Many of the 74 easy trails are perfect for beginners. For instance, the Floodgates Walk is a 4.1 miles (6.6 km) trail with minimal elevation gain, making it ideal for a relaxed introduction to hiking in the area. The trails through Ballyseedy Woods also offer varying lengths and easy terrain.
Are there any easy trails that are particularly good for spotting wildlife?
Ballyseedy Woods, with its ancient trees and integrated wetlands, is a rich habitat for diverse flora and fauna. Hikers can often spot various bird life, including Heron, Snipe, Teal, and Finches, making it an excellent choice for wildlife enthusiasts on an easy stroll.
Are there any easy routes that connect to other walking or cycling paths?
Yes, the region has good connectivity. A new 5km looped trail connects Ballygarry Estate directly to Ballyseedy Woods via two bridges over the River Lee. Additionally, the Tralee Fenit Greenway, a scenic 13.6 km path, follows a former railway route, offering peaceful experiences for both walking and cycling.
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