The best walks and hikes around Ballyhaskin
4.6
(36)
223
hikers
10
hikes
Hiking around Ballyhaskin, a rural townland on Northern Ireland's Ards Peninsula in County Down, offers access to a wild and windswept coastline. The region features low, exposed, rocky coastlines with small promontories and bays, alongside unique deep banks of raised beach shingle. Nearby Ballyquintin National Nature Reserve provides diverse habitats including sparse, dry grasslands and pockets of saltmarsh. This area combines natural coastal beauty with historical landmarks, providing varied terrain for outdoor exploration.
Best hiking trails around Ballyhaskin
- The most…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
4.0
(5)
38
hikers
7.57km
02:00
70m
70m
Hike the easy 4.7-mile (7.6 km) Boundary Walk at Mount Stewart, exploring diverse woodlands, historical landmarks, and scenic views.
4.8
(20)
34
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(2)
18
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
18
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
13
hikers
9.39km
02:27
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Ballyhaskin
Tips from the Community
Of course, such a beautiful park also needs a pond with a bridge to the island, etc.
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Both the park and the Mount Stewart House itself are outstanding attractions.
2
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Like a painting - inhabited by a pair of swans.
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You learn to appreciate gardening here: the park around Mount Stewart House looks slightly overgrown, wonderfully randomly grown and seems somewhat neglected and untidy with subtle art between the unobtrusive flowers and colors. Of course, nothing here is natural and nothing is random, but it is incredibly beautiful to look at.
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From Donaghadee visitors can enjoy spectacular views across the Irish Sea, where on a clear day you can see all the way to Scotland, only 20 miles away by sea. It was the province’s principle port before Belfast developed. The Harbour was built in 1820's to the design of John Rennie and is part built of limestone from Wales known as "Anglesea marble". On the harbour is Donaghadee's impressive lighthouse, which was built in 1836 and was the first lighthouse in Ireland to be lit by electricity. Sit and rest in the harbour with a bag of chips from Rainy's on the High Street ( on the hill as you roll in to town from Millisle ) Best fryers in the town. Perfect recovery after a long cycle, Irelands oldest Pub - Grace Neills, is only around the corner.
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Voted as one of the top ten gardens in the world, Mount Stewart reflects a rich tapestry of design and planting artistry bearing the hallmark of its creator. Edith, Lady Londonderry’s passion for bold planting schemes coupled with the mild climate of Strangford Lough allows rare and tender plants from across the globe to thrive in this celebrated garden. Each of the formal gardens exudes a distinct character and appeal. Mount Stewart is a delight for the senses with a series of formal themed garden compartments around the house including The Italian, Spanish, Mairi and Shamrock Garden.
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For a different view of Mount Stewart, stroll around miles of new walking trails and discover a landscape lost in time. Taking in the stunning view from the Temple of the Winds. Trails will take you through magical woodland and farmland, set within an iconic rolling drumlin landscape beside the Lough. Gift Shop, Picnic Area, Restaurant and Tea-room / Cafe onsite
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Ballyhaskin?
There are 10 hiking trails around Ballyhaskin, offering diverse options for exploring the region's coastal beauty and natural landscapes.
What are the typical difficulty levels for hikes in this area?
The trails around Ballyhaskin are generally easy to moderate. Our guide features 7 easy routes and 3 moderate routes, making the area accessible for various fitness levels.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails around Ballyhaskin?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil coastal paths, the wild and windswept scenery, and the opportunities to discover historical landmarks.
Are there any circular walks around Ballyhaskin?
Yes, several routes offer circular paths. For example, the Mount Stewart Gardens – Mount Stewart House loop from Mount Stewart is an easy 2.1-mile loop, and the View of Donaghadee Parade – View of the Sea at Donaghadee loop from Donaghadee provides a 3.7-mile coastal circuit.
What kind of natural features and wildlife can I expect to see while hiking?
Ballyhaskin's coastal location offers a wild and windswept coastline with rocky promontories and unique raised beach shingle. Nearby, the Ballyquintin National Nature Reserve is known for its diverse habitats, including sparse, dry grasslands that burst with wildflowers in May and June. You might spot Irish hares, various bird species like stonechats and whitethroats, and migratory butterflies. For more details on the reserve, visit daera-ni.gov.uk.
Are there any interesting landmarks or historical sites near the hiking trails?
Absolutely. The area around Ballyhaskin is rich in history. You can visit the restored Ballycopeland Windmill, the historic Donaghadee Lighthouse, or the impressive Grey Abbey Ruins, a 12th-century Cistercian monastery. The Mount Stewart House and its gardens are also nearby.
Are the hiking trails around Ballyhaskin suitable for families?
Many of the trails are suitable for families, especially the easy-graded routes. The Mount Stewart Gardens – Mount Stewart House loop from Mount Stewart, for instance, is an easy 2.1-mile path exploring landscaped gardens, which can be enjoyable for all ages.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails?
Generally, dogs are welcome on many of the coastal paths and trails in the Ards Peninsula, but it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock and ground-nesting birds. Please check local signage for specific restrictions.
Is there parking available near the trailheads?
Parking is typically available at popular starting points for trails, especially near attractions like Mount Stewart and Donaghadee. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages or local information boards.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Ballyhaskin?
The spring (May and June) is particularly beautiful when the sparse, dry grasslands of Ballyquintin National Nature Reserve burst with colorful wildflowers. The coastal paths offer refreshing walks year-round, but always be prepared for potentially wild and windswept conditions.
Are there any cafes or pubs near the hiking routes?
While Ballyhaskin itself is a rural townland, nearby towns like Millisle, Ballywalter, and Donaghadee offer options for cafes, pubs, and other amenities where you can refuel after your hike.
Can I reach the hiking areas by public transport?
Public transport options to the more rural parts of the Ards Peninsula, including Ballyhaskin, may be limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for services to nearby towns like Millisle, Ballywalter, or Donaghadee, and plan your onward journey accordingly.
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