The best walks and hikes around Leymore

The hiking in Leymore is characterized by gentle riverbank paths and walks through rolling countryside. The terrain is mostly low-lying with minimal elevation change, with many public footpaths following local waterways like the Devenagh Burn and the River Braid.

Yes, the region is well-suited for families and beginners. A great option is the River Braid loop from Broughshane, which is a flat and straightforward walk of just under 3 miles (4.7 km) along the river.

Absolutely. Most of the popular routes in the area are loops. For a pleasant walk that takes you past some local history, consider the Galgorm Castle loop from Galgorm. It's a 3-mile (4.9 km) circular path that's easy to follow.

Dogs are generally welcome on the public footpaths around Leymore, but they should be kept on a lead, especially when walking near farmland or livestock. The riverside paths offer great opportunities for a walk with your canine companion.

For those seeking a bit more of a challenge, the Devenagh Burn Riverbank loop from Cullybackey is the longest of the main local routes. This moderate hike covers 7.8 miles (12.5 km) and takes over 3 hours to complete, offering a more extensive exploration of the riverbank.

Yes, many of the trailheads are in or near villages like Broughshane, Cullybackey, and Galgorm, where you can find traditional pubs and cafes for refreshments after your hike. Starting your walk from one of these villages makes it easy to plan a stop.

Parking is typically available in the towns and villages where the main trails start, such as Broughshane and Cullybackey. You can usually find free on-street parking or public car parks to use as a base for your walk.

The komoot community has explored the area, with reviewers often enjoying the peaceful riverside scenery and the accessibility of the paths. The routes are particularly appreciated for being straightforward and suitable for a relaxing day out.

The flat terrain and well-defined paths along the rivers make many of the routes around Leymore ideal for trail running. The gentle gradients allow for a smooth, consistent pace. A good option to try is the Devenagh Burn Riverbank loop from Ballykeel, which offers a good distance on mostly level ground.

There are over a dozen marked trails and public footpaths to discover in the Leymore area. The selection is primarily made up of easy and moderate routes, perfect for exploring the local countryside at a relaxed pace.

The immediate trails around Leymore follow gentle rivers and are not known for waterfalls. For dramatic waterfalls, you would need to travel a bit further into the wider County Antrim region, such as to Glenariff Forest Park, which is famous for them.