The best walks and hikes around Slanes
4.7
(29)
334
hikers
8
hikes
Hiking around Slanes offers a variety of trails, primarily featuring coastal paths and routes around historic estates. The region is characterized by its proximity to the sea, providing opportunities for walks with water views. Elevation gains are generally low, making many trails accessible for various fitness levels. The landscape includes open coastal areas and parklands surrounding historical sites.
Best hiking trails around Slanes
- The most popular hiking route is Kearney coastal walk — Strangford & Lecale, an easy 3.5…
Last updated: April 29, 2026
4.0
(1)
6
hikers
5.59km
01:25
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
20
hikers
8.57km
02:17
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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10
hikers
2.80km
00:44
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
4.50km
01:13
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
5.51km
01:29
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Slanes
Tips from the Community
This section feels like a green oasis - the path winds through dense trees that provide cool shade and create the perfect contrast to the warm summer sun. The leaves rustle gently in the wind and there is a peaceful silence that immediately relaxes you. As soon as you leave the forest, the landscape opens up and reveals a view of wide fields that dance like waves in the wind. Here you feel completely connected to nature, a moment to enjoy and take a deep breath before moving on. A real insider tip for a relaxed tour in the countryside!
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This 15th-century three-storey tower house stands on a rocky outcrop overlooking Strangford Lough and offers commanding views of the surrounding countryside. Named after its 16th-century owner, John Audley, the tower is a typical example of the numerous stone towers built for the lesser nobility in the late Middle Ages.
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When you cycle along the banks of this natural harbour, you immediately feel the special atmosphere of this place, which has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The lough stretches an impressive 26 kilometres in length and impresses with over 365 small islands, many of which dry out at low tide. On your way you will repeatedly come across fascinating traces of long-gone cultures: from Mesolithic sites to Bronze Age remains to stone fish fences that were used by the early inhabitants for fishing. The Køkkenmøddinger are particularly interesting - shell heaps made of local oysters that have survived for thousands of years. There is a lot to discover in places like Mahee Island or Rough Island, and at low tide you can even reach Rough Island on foot. If you are up for a little effort, the climb up Scrabo Hill near Newtownards is worth it. From up there you have a magnificent view: Belfast stretches out to the west, the Mourne Mountains to the south, and on a clear day you can see the Ards Peninsula and even the Isle of Man. This hill has a long history - it has been inhabited since the Neolithic period. Strangford Lough is not only scenically beautiful, but also an exciting area for anyone interested in archaeology and history. Whether you are interested in nature or history, this tour around the lough is sure to be a memorable one.
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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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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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National Trust (Castle Ward, 2023-12-24): https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/castle-ward https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tl_SVBg9R8U Wikipedia (Castle Ward, 2023-12-24): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward “… The most interesting aspect of Castle Ward is that of its dual architecture, representing the differing tastes of Lord Bangor and his wife, Lady Ann Bligh. While the entrance side of the building is done in a classical Palladian style with columns supporting a triangular pediment, the opposite side is Georgian Gothic with pointed windows, battlements and finials. …”
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Great place for a run along the coastline.
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In a fairly secluded location, Audleystown Wood is a pleasant, forested area with contrasting views of water and land, ideal for a picnic stop during your ride.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Slanes?
There are 8 hiking routes around Slanes listed in this guide. The area offers a variety of trails, primarily featuring coastal paths and routes around historic estates.
Are there easy hiking options in Slanes?
Yes, Slanes is well-suited for easy hikes. Out of the 8 routes, 6 are classified as easy. An example is the Kearney coastal walk — Strangford & Lecale, an easy 3.5-mile trail.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Slanes?
Hiking in Slanes offers diverse scenery, including open coastal areas with sea views, parklands, and trails around historical landmarks. You'll experience paths along the shore and through estate grounds.
Are there any circular walks in Slanes?
Yes, several routes in Slanes are circular. For example, the Castle Ward – Castle Ward Shore Car Park loop from Portaferry is a moderate 5.3-mile circular path exploring the grounds around Castle Ward.
What historical sites or landmarks can I visit near the hiking trails?
Slanes is rich in historical sites. You can explore areas around Castle Ward Tower, known as a filming location, and Audley's Castle. Many trails lead directly through or past these significant landmarks.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Slanes?
The routes in Slanes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 29 reviews. Hikers often praise the scenic coastal paths and the historical context of the trails.
Are there any moderate hiking trails for a bit more challenge?
Yes, Slanes offers moderate options for those seeking a slightly longer or more varied walk. The Castle Ward – Castle Ward Shore Car Park loop from Portaferry is a moderate 5.3-mile trail that takes about 2 hours 17 minutes to complete.
Is there parking available near the trailheads in Slanes?
Yes, parking is available at key locations. For instance, the Castle Ward Shore Car Park serves as a convenient starting point for several routes in the Castle Ward area.
Can I combine hiking with other activities, like visiting a ferry terminal?
Yes, some trails are conveniently located near transport hubs. The Strangford Ferry Terminal is a point of interest near certain routes, allowing for potential connections or views of the ferry activity.
Are there forest paths or trails along the water in Slanes?
Yes, you can find both. The region features coastal paths offering views of the sea, and there are also forest paths, such as the Forest Path Along Strangford Lough, providing a different natural experience.
What is the typical elevation gain on Slanes hiking trails?
Elevation gains in Slanes are generally low, making many trails accessible for various fitness levels. Most routes feature gentle inclines, characteristic of coastal and parkland walks.
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