Easy hikes and walks around Broom Quarter
4.7
(32)
351
hikers
16
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Broom Quarter offer a mix of coastal paths, farmland routes, and trails leading to historical sites. The region is characterized by its proximity to water, with routes often providing views of the surrounding shores and countryside. These trails are generally flat or feature gentle inclines, making them suitable for various fitness levels.
Best easy hiking trails around Broom Quarter
- The most popular easy hiking route is Castle Ward Farm Trail, a 2.9 miles (4.7 km)…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.7
(3)
75
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…
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.
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27
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
5.29km
01:25
60m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
2.80km
00:44
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The narrow path leads through dense vegetation, the light gently breaks through the leaves and creates an almost mystical atmosphere. It is pleasantly cool and you can hear nothing except the gentle rustling of the leaves and the crunching of the gravel under your tires. A place where you like to drive slower, take in the surroundings and enjoy the feeling of peace.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Broom Quarter?
Broom Quarter offers 11 easy hiking trails, perfect for those looking for gentle walks. In total, there are 16 hiking routes in the area, with the majority being suitable for beginners or casual hikers.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes in Broom Quarter?
The easy hiking trails in Broom Quarter are characterized by a mix of coastal paths, routes through farmland, and trails leading to historical sites. They generally feature flat terrain or gentle inclines, providing scenic views of the surrounding shores and countryside.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Broom Quarter?
The easy trails in Broom Quarter are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 30 reviews. More than 350 hikers have explored these routes, often praising the accessible paths and scenic views.
Are there any family-friendly easy hikes in Broom Quarter?
Yes, many of the easy trails in Broom Quarter are suitable for families. For example, the Castle Ward Farm Trail is a popular 2.9-mile route through farmland that is great for all ages. The gentle inclines and varied scenery make these routes enjoyable for families.
Can I bring my dog on easy hikes in Broom Quarter?
While specific regulations can vary, many trails in Broom Quarter, especially those through open countryside or coastal paths, are generally dog-friendly. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially near livestock or protected wildlife areas. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
Are there any easy circular walks in Broom Quarter?
Yes, Broom Quarter offers several easy circular walks. A great option is the Audley's Castle loop from Portaferry, a 1.7-mile trail that takes you through scenic surroundings to a historic castle. Another is the Castle Ward Shore Car Park loop from Strangford, which is 2.3 miles long.
What historical sites or landmarks can I see on easy hikes in Broom Quarter?
Several easy hikes in Broom Quarter lead to or pass by significant historical sites. You can visit Audley's Castle, a historic tower house, or explore the grounds around Castle Ward Tower, which is also known as a filming location. These routes offer a blend of natural beauty and local history.
Are there easy hikes with coastal views in Broom Quarter?
Absolutely. The region is known for its proximity to water, and many easy trails offer stunning coastal views. The Kearney coastal walk — Strangford & Lecale is a prime example, following the coastline for 3.5 miles with expansive sea vistas.
Where can I park for easy hikes in Broom Quarter?
Many of the popular easy hiking trails in Broom Quarter have designated parking areas. For instance, the Castle Ward Shore Car Park is a convenient starting point for several routes, including loops around Castle Ward. Always check specific trailheads for parking availability.
What is the best time of year for easy hikes in Broom Quarter?
The best time for easy hikes in Broom Quarter is generally during spring, summer, and early autumn when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. Spring brings blooming flora, while summer and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for exploring the coastal and farmland paths. Winter walks are also possible, but be prepared for potentially wet and windy conditions.
Are there any easy hikes that pass through forests or woodlands?
While Broom Quarter is primarily known for its coastal and farmland routes, you can find sections of woodland. The Forest Path Along Strangford Lough offers a pleasant, easy walk through wooded areas alongside the lough, providing a different kind of scenery.
Can I find easy hikes that connect to public transport in Broom Quarter?
While many trails are best accessed by car, some routes may be reachable via local public transport. For example, the Strangford Ferry Terminal serves as a point of access for routes on both sides of the lough, and local bus services might connect to nearby towns. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for specific trailheads.
Most popular routes around Broom Quarter
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