4.6
(9)
211
hikers
9
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Ballygowan offer access to diverse landscapes in County Down, Northern Ireland. The region features accessible paths through woodlands, gentle hills, and areas close to the scenic Strangford Lough. These routes provide opportunities for outdoor activity across varying terrains, suitable for different fitness levels.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
4.01km
01:11
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
1.84km
00:28
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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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.
5.0
(1)
15
hikers
3.81km
01:04
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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A short stroll around Rough Island will provide you excellent views across the beautiful Strangford Lough and its shoreline. The island is a popular location for bird-watching, so don't forget to bring your binoculars, there is also a picnic area on the island, too. The island is only accessible at low tide, so knowing the tide times is essential.
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This is the tidal causeway leading to the beautiful Rough Island. The causeway becomes completely submerged during high tide, so being aware of the tide times is essential. You can check out the daily times here https://www.tideschart.com/New-Zealand/Other/Rough-Island/
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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
2
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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.
2
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There are 9 easy hiking trails around Ballygowan, offering diverse landscapes suitable for various fitness levels. In total, komoot lists 11 routes in the area, with the majority being easy.
Yes, Ballygowan offers several family-friendly options. For instance, the Killynether Wood and Scrabo Tower — Strangford & Lecale trail is a great choice, featuring woodland paths and views from the historic Scrabo Tower. The region's accessible paths and gentle terrain make many routes suitable for families.
Many trails in the Ballygowan area are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves or near livestock. For example, the Rough Island loop — Strangford & Lecale offers coastal landscapes where dogs are generally welcome, but always check local signage for specific restrictions.
Yes, several easy circular walks are available. A popular option is the Scrabo Tower – Killynether Wood loop from Scrabo Tower, which allows you to explore the Killynether Wood area and return to your starting point. Another is the Lisnabreeny Rath loop from Four Winds.
Ballygowan's easy hikes often feature diverse scenery. You can find woodland paths, gentle hills, and coastal views near Strangford Lough. Some trails, like the Cregagh Glen Waterfalls loop from Four Winds, even feature waterfalls. Historic landmarks such as Scrabo Tower are also visible from many routes.
Yes, the Cregagh Glen Waterfalls loop from Four Winds is an easy trail that specifically features waterfalls, offering a refreshing natural spectacle during your hike.
The easy trails around Ballygowan are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10 reviews. Hikers often praise the accessible paths, scenic woodlands, and the peaceful atmosphere of the routes.
Beyond the trails themselves, Ballygowan is close to several points of interest. You can visit historical sites like the Nendrum Monastery Ruins or Kilmood Church. Nature lovers might enjoy the WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre or the scenic Lagan Meadows Nature Reserve.
While Ballygowan itself is a village, public transport options to specific trailheads can be limited. It's advisable to check local bus routes or consider driving to access many of the starting points for these easy hikes. Parking information is often available on individual route pages.
Ballygowan's easy trails can be enjoyed year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers pleasant temperatures, autumn showcases vibrant foliage, and even winter can be beautiful with crisp air. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Yes, several easy hikes offer rewarding views. Trails around Scrabo Tower, such as the Killynether Wood and Scrabo Tower — Strangford & Lecale route, provide excellent panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape, including Strangford Lough.


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