The best walks and hikes around Crosskennan
4.6
(26)
445
hikers
24
hikes
Hiking trails around Crosskennan offer a variety of landscapes, including paths along lough shores, through historic castle grounds, and within forested areas. The region features generally low elevation gains, making many routes accessible. There are 26 hiking routes available, with a focus on easy to moderate difficulty levels.
Best hiking trails around Crosskennan
- The most popular hiking route is Loughshore Trail - Antrim Loop, a 4.4 miles (7.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 49 minutes to complete. Thisβ¦
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.6
(8)
58
hikers
7.11km
01:49
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
46
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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9
hikers
11.2km
03:07
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
7.83km
02:01
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Crosskennan
Tips from the Community
The Protector of the Lough statue shows the mythological giant Finn McCool standing guard at Antrim Marina on the shores of Lough Neagh. It's an eight-metre-tall sculpture created by Spanish artist Casto Solan to celebrate the local folklore of the Lough.
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Antrim Castle Gardens are an absolute historical gem. You will find nothing like these 400 year old gardens anywhere else in Northern Ireland. Walk into the past as you stroll around this magnificent setting, visiting beautiful features such as the Large Parterre, Her Ladyshipβs Pleasure Garden and Yew Tree Pond. Within the heart of the Gardens is a unique visitor experience, the refurbished Clotworthy House. Visit the Garden Heritage Exhibition where you can read about the history of the Gardens and the story of the Massereene family. It provides a fantastic opportunity to come and learn about garden history how the lives of the key family members intertwine with the development of Antrim town and the surrounding areas.
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Enjoy a scenic section of running along the shoreline of Lough Neagh . The path is made of gravel and entirely flat making it perfect jogging material. The lough itself holds the title of the largest lake in Ireland and supplies 40% of Northern Ireland's water!
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Antrim Castle Gardens is the perfect place for a jog. It has flat gravel paths throughout as well as a wonderful medley of landmarks to discover such as Large Parterre, Her Ladyship's Pleasure Garden and Yew Tree Pond. Admission to the castle is free and is open 24 hours.
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Scenic section of walking along the shore of Lough Neagh from Antrim. The lough holds the title of the largest lake in Ireland and this footpath gifts you with some gorgeous vantage points to enjoy it from.
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Here you can discover the beauty of Antrim Castle Gardens & Clotworthy House. There's many beautiful landmarks along the way such as Large Parterre, Her Ladyship's Pleasure Garden and Yew Tree Pond. Admission to the castle is free and is open 24 hours.
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Castle gardens including various buildings and ruins on the river. Plenty to look at and explore in the gardens.
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Ruins of Antrim castle set in green grounds next to the river. A great place to stop for a breather.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Crosskennan?
There are 26 hiking routes around Crosskennan, offering a variety of experiences from lough shores to forested areas.
What are the typical difficulty levels for hikes in Crosskennan?
The trails in Crosskennan are predominantly easy to moderate. You'll find 18 easy routes and 8 moderate routes, making the area accessible for various fitness levels.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Crosskennan?
Yes, with 18 easy routes and generally low elevation gains, many trails are suitable for families. Consider routes that explore the Antrim Castle Gardens for a pleasant outing with children.
Can I find circular hiking routes in Crosskennan?
Absolutely. Many trails are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Loughshore Trail - Antrim Loop and the Forest Path loop from Carnearny.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Crosskennan?
Crosskennan offers diverse landscapes, including scenic paths along lough shores, walks through historic castle grounds like Antrim Castle Gardens, and immersive forested areas such as Randalstown Forest.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks to explore on the trails?
Yes, the area is rich in history. You can hike through the grounds of Antrim Castle Gardens, explore the Antrim Castle Ruins, or visit the ancient Antrim Round Tower.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Crosskennan?
The trails in Crosskennan are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 25 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, from loughside paths to historic sites, and the well-maintained routes.
Are there any viewpoints offering scenic vistas?
Yes, several routes offer excellent views. The Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim provides open views across the lough, and on clear days, you might even catch a View of Slemish Mountain from Colin Road.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Crosskennan?
While specific regulations can vary, many public paths and parks in the UK and Ireland generally welcome dogs on a leash. It's always best to check local signage or specific park rules for the trail you plan to hike, especially around sensitive natural areas or historical sites.
What is the longest moderate hike available in Crosskennan?
The Forest Path loop from Carnearny is one of the longer moderate options, covering approximately 6.9 miles (11.2 km) and typically taking around 3 hours 6 minutes to complete through woodlands.
Are there any shorter, easy walks for a quick outing?
Yes, for a shorter, easy walk, consider The Protector of the Lough β Antrim Castle Gardens loop from Antrim. This route is about 2.2 miles (3.5 km) and can be completed in just over an hour, offering a pleasant stroll through the castle gardens.
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