The best walks and hikes around Ballyclaverty
4.7
(22)
354
hikers
20
hikes
Hiking around Ballyclaverty offers a network of trails primarily characterized by its proximity to Lough Neagh and its gentle, rolling terrain. The region features a mix of loughshore paths, historical castle gardens, and forested areas. Elevations are generally low, with the highest point being a modest hill, making most routes accessible. The landscape provides varied scenery without significant climbs.
Best hiking trails around Ballyclaverty
- The most popular hiking route is Loughshore Trail - Antrim Loop, a 4.4 miles (7.1…
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 Ballyclaverty
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 Ladyship’s 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 Ballyclaverty?
There are over 20 hiking trails around Ballyclaverty, offering a variety of experiences from gentle loughshore strolls to more extensive forest paths. The region is particularly well-suited for those seeking easy to moderate walks.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Ballyclaverty?
Hikes around Ballyclaverty primarily feature gentle, rolling terrain. You'll find a mix of scenic loughshore paths along Lough Neagh, historical castle gardens, and peaceful forested areas. Elevations are generally low, making most routes accessible without significant climbs.
Are there easy or beginner-friendly hiking options in Ballyclaverty?
Yes, Ballyclaverty is excellent for easy and beginner-friendly hikes. Out of the 22 available routes, 15 are classified as easy. A great option is the Loughshore Trail - Antrim Loop, which is 4.4 miles (7.1 km) and follows the scenic shore of Lough Neagh.
Are there any circular walks available in Ballyclaverty?
Many of the trails around Ballyclaverty are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Forest Path loop from Carnearny is a 6.9-mile (11.2 km) route through woodlands, and the Antrim Castle Gardens – The Protector of the Lough loop from Antrim offers a pleasant 4.7-mile (7.6 km) walk.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Ballyclaverty?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 20 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied scenery, combining tranquil loughshore paths, historical castle gardens, and peaceful forest trails, all without challenging climbs.
Are there any family-friendly walks suitable for children in Ballyclaverty?
Absolutely. The gentle terrain and accessible paths make Ballyclaverty ideal for family-friendly walks. Routes like the The Protector of the Lough – Antrim Castle Gardens loop from Antrim, at 2.2 miles (3.5 km), are perfect for shorter outings with children, offering interesting sights within the historic Antrim Castle Gardens.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see along the hiking trails?
Many trails incorporate or pass by notable attractions. You can explore the historic Antrim Castle Gardens, enjoy views along the Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim, or even spot the ancient Antrim Round Tower. The Antrim Castle Ruins – Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim loop from Antrim specifically combines historical ruins with lough views.
Is Ballyclaverty suitable for hiking with dogs?
Yes, many trails around Ballyclaverty are suitable for dogs, provided they are kept under control, especially in areas with livestock or near wildlife. The loughshore paths and forest trails offer plenty of opportunities for your canine companion to enjoy the outdoors. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
What is the best season for hiking in Ballyclaverty?
Ballyclaverty offers pleasant hiking conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and summer bring lush greenery and longer daylight hours, ideal for exploring. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter can offer crisp, quiet walks, though some paths might be muddy. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any scenic viewpoints along the trails in Ballyclaverty?
Yes, the region offers several scenic viewpoints, particularly along the Lough Neagh shore. The Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim provides expansive water views. Additionally, on clearer days, you might catch a distant glimpse of Slemish Mountain from Colin Road, offering a different perspective of the wider landscape.
Is public transport available to reach hiking trailheads in Ballyclaverty?
Public transport options to reach specific trailheads in Ballyclaverty may vary. It's advisable to check local bus routes and schedules, particularly those serving Antrim town, which is a central point for many of the area's popular walks, including those around Antrim Castle Gardens and Lough Neagh.
Are there parking facilities available near the hiking trails?
Parking is generally available at key access points for many trails, especially near popular attractions like Antrim Castle Gardens and along the Lough Neagh shore. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages on komoot or local council websites.
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Most popular attractions around Ballyclaverty
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