The best walks and hikes around Salt Island
4.5
(49)
498
hikers
29
hikes
Hikes around Salt Island explore a landscape characterized by country parks, lough shores, and rolling hills. The region's walking trails often follow coastal paths and circle inland bodies of water like Lough Money. The terrain is generally composed of established footpaths with moderate elevation changes, making it accessible for various fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Salt Island
- The most popular hiking route is Castle Ward Hoof Trail — Strangford & Lecale, a 7.6 mile (12.2 km) trail that…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
4.7
(14)
49
hikers
12.2km
03:17
150m
150m
Embark on the Castle Ward Hoof Trail, a moderate hiking route spanning 7.6 miles (12.2 km) with an elevation gain of 483 feet (147 metres). You can expect to complete…
4.7
(3)
78
hikers
4.66km
01:15
60m
60m
Discover the easy Castle Ward Farm Trail, a delightful hike spanning 2.9 miles (4.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 201 feet (61 metres). This route typically takes about…
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4.4
(8)
54
hikers
5.27km
01:25
70m
70m
Embark on the Delamont Long Walk, an easy hiking route that guides you through the scenic Delamont Country Park. This pleasant 3.3-mile (5.3 km) journey involves a gentle elevation gain…
5.0
(3)
29
hikers
7.74km
02:05
100m
90m
Embark on the Castle Ward Boundary Trail, a moderate hiking route that guides you through a diverse landscape of mature woodlands, active farmlands, and historic grounds. As you hike, you…
11.8km
03:09
140m
140m
Embark on the Lough Money loop from St. Patrick's Road, a moderate hiking route that spans 7.3 miles (11.8 km). You will experience the diverse beauty of County Down, Northern…
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Popular around Salt Island
Tips from the Community
Wikipedia (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%27s_Castle https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%E2%80%99s_Castle Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/audleys-castle-p707501 Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Visit Game of Thrones - Filming Locations, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/blog/read/2020/06/visit-game-of-thrones-filming-locations-b147 “… Within the Castle Ward demesne, you can make your way over to Audley's Field where Robb Stark meets Talisa after the battle at Oxcross. …“ #GoT #BattleOfOxcross #WarOfTheFiveKings
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Great place for a run along the coastline.
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Best known for its role as "Winterfell" in Game of Thrones, Castle Ward is an 18th-century National Trust property located in Strangford. With its distinctive blend of classical and gothic styles, the castle and its estate grace the picturesque shores of Strangford Lough. Tours of the castle and estate are available year-round. For more information, visit: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/castle-ward
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Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, The Park offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. It is home to the Strangford Stone - the tallest megalith in Ireland. This beautiful 200 -acre Country Park offers a great day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a keen walker, a nature lover or simply looking for a great day.
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The impressive Strangford Stone that sits inside the Delamont Country Park in Northern Ireland holds the mighty title of the highest megalith stone in Europe! The stone stands at a whopping 12.5 metres tall and was assembles by 1000 people in 1999. It stands in an elevated position, boasting superb views over Strangford Lough and towards Slieve Croob and the Mountains of Mourne
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Lough Money, nestled in County Antrim, is a picturesque freshwater lake. Surrounded by lush greenery and offering tranquillity, it's a favoured spot for fishing, picnics, and nature enthusiasts.
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Best known for its place as "Winterfell" in Game of Thrones, Castle Ward is an 18th-century National Trust property in Strangford. With two unique styles of classical and gothic, the castle & its estate is located in a beautiful location near the shore of Strangford Lough. Tours are available year round of the castle and estate.
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Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, The Park offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. It is home to the Strangford Stone - the tallest megalith in Ireland. This beautiful 200 -acre Country Park offers a great day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a keen walker, a nature lover or simply looking for a great day. Steamers Coffee Shop Serves a wide variety of refreshments, including full breakfast and lunch menus, great coffee and ice cream in the summer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the general difficulty of hikes around Salt Island?
The trails in this region are generally accessible, consisting of a good mix of easy and moderate routes. Most hikes follow established footpaths through country parks and along lough shores with gentle elevation changes. There are no trails rated as difficult, making it a great area for regular walkers and families.
Are there any good circular walks?
Yes, the area has several excellent circular routes. A popular option is the Castle Ward & Audley's Castle loop, which combines parkland walking with historical sights. For a walk centered around a body of water, the Lough Money loop is another fantastic choice.
Can I find any easy, family-friendly hikes?
Absolutely. The region is well-suited for family outings. A particularly good choice is the Delamont Country Park Long Walk loop. It's a relatively short and flat route within a country park, making it ideal for walkers of all ages.
Are there trails with coastal or shoreline views?
Yes, shoreline paths are a key feature of hiking in this area. For a dedicated coastal experience, the Castle Ward Shore Trail is a short and scenic route that follows the water's edge, offering lovely views over Strangford Lough.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Salt Island?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful scenery combining parkland and lough shores, and the mix of historical points of interest along the routes.
How many hiking trails are available around Salt Island?
You can explore over 30 different hiking routes in the region. These range from short, easy walks to more moderate, longer trails, offering plenty of options for a day out.
What kind of terrain should I expect?
The terrain is primarily composed of established footpaths through country estates like Castle Ward and Delamont Country Park. You'll also find trails along the shores of Strangford Lough. The paths are generally well-maintained with moderate, rolling hills rather than steep climbs.
Are there any longer hikes for a more challenging day out?
Yes, if you're looking for a longer walk, the Castle Ward Hoof Trail is a great option. At over 7.5 miles (12 km), it provides a more substantial hike through the scenic parkland and takes around 3 hours to complete.
What should I pack for a hike in this area?
Sturdy walking shoes are recommended as some paths can be uneven. It's also wise to bring waterproof clothing, as the weather can change quickly. Pack water and snacks, especially for the longer routes. Since many trails are within parks, having a bit of cash for potential entry or parking fees is a good idea.
Do any of the trails feature historical sites?
Yes, many routes in the area are rich with history. The walks around the Castle Ward estate are particularly notable, allowing you to see historic farmyards, Audley's Castle, and the grand estate house itself, which adds a cultural element to your hike.
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