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United Kingdom
Northern Ireland
Ards

Cronstown

The best walks and hikes around Cronstown

4.7

(72)

1,597

hikers

101

hikes

Hiking around Cronstown offers a network of trails primarily characterized by gentle terrain and accessible paths. The region features routes with minimal elevation gain, making them suitable for various activity levels. These paths often lead through areas of local interest, providing opportunities for leisurely exploration. The landscape around Cronstown is generally mild, focusing on well-maintained walking surfaces rather than challenging mountainous ascents.

Best hiking trails around Cronstown

  • The most popular hiking route is Floodgates Walk, a 4.1 miles (6.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 39 minutes to complete, offering a straightforward path.
  • Another top favourite among local hikers is Movilla Abbey loop from Newtownards North ED, an easy 2.9 miles (4.7 km) path that explores the area around Movilla Abbey.
  • Local hikers also love the Helen's Tower – Lead Mine Tower loop from Newtownards, a 4.3 miles (7.0 km) trail leading through an area featuring historical towers, often completed in about 1 hour 54 minutes.
  • Hiking around Cronstown is defined by accessible paths, gentle ascents, and routes exploring local landmarks. The network offers options for different ability levels, predominantly featuring easy trails.
  • The routes in Cronstown are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from around 70 reviews. More than 1600 hikers have used komoot to explore Cronstown's varied terrain.

Last updated: April 27, 2026

5.0

(1)

41

hikers

#1.

Floodgates Walk

6.58km

01:40

10m

10m

Hike the easy Floodgates Walk in Strangford & Lecale AONB, offering 4.1 miles of scenic views over Strangford Lough and abundant wildlife.

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Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

5

hikers

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Popular around Cronstown

Cycling around Cronstown

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Tips from the Community

Grace Mulligan
October 25, 2023, Flood Bank Path, Strangford & Lecale AONB

Follow this flat, paved path along the northern strand of Strangford Lough near Newtownwards. You're afforded great views out over the water and also of Scrabo Tower, which looms above the town.

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Follow this flat, paved path along the northern strand of Strangford Lough near Newtownwards. You're afforded great views out over the water and also of Scrabo Tower, which looms above the town.

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Movilla was associated with Saint Finian in the 6th-century. As with many early monasteries, it was plundered by Vikings in the 9th century, but was refounded as an Augustinian abbey in the Norman 12th century and survived until the suppression of religious houses in the 1540s. It has the best collection of 13th Century coffin lids with foliate crosses in the Province. These are built into the inside north wall. Only one stone from the Pre-Norman period survives; it is marked with “Or do Dertrend”, “pray for Dertrend”. Later structures include the ruins of a 13th century church which was rebuilt in the 15th-century. A really fascinating stop.

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The grounds are huge and abound with history. You can only be struck by the character of the place. Especially considering the modern sprawl approaching the Abbeys walls.

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19th-century folly and lookout tower near Bangor. Named after the 5th Baron's mother, Helen. He intended it as a shrine for poems - Tennyson's Helen's Tower is the best known of them. Well worth a stop off to explore the architecture.

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Part of the Clandeboyle Estate, between the golf courses, there are some nice off-road trails. Close to Helen's Tower, so worth factoring that in.

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Go4moots
February 6, 2023, Helen's Tower

nice trail run up the tower

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Bill
August 19, 2021, Helen's Tower

A lovely walk especially from Helens Bay - through rolling country side, however there is no signage but reasonable easy to follow - that is until to come to Helen's Tower - if you find it give yourself a Mars bar and if you manage to find your way to your cat at Whitespots car park - give yourself two Mars bars. Enjoy :-)

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical terrain like for hiking around Cronstown?

The hiking trails around Cronstown are generally characterized by gentle terrain and accessible paths. You can expect well-maintained walking surfaces with minimal elevation gain, making them suitable for leisurely exploration rather than challenging mountainous ascents.

Are there family-friendly hiking trails in Cronstown?

Yes, Cronstown offers many family-friendly options. The trails are predominantly easy, with gentle ascents and accessible paths, making them suitable for various ages and activity levels. For example, the Movilla Abbey loop from Newtownards North ED is an easy 2.9-mile path that explores a local area of interest.

Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Cronstown?

Generally, dogs are welcome on most hiking trails in Cronstown. However, it's always best to keep them on a leash, especially when passing through agricultural areas or near wildlife, and to check for any specific local restrictions on individual routes.

Are there many circular hiking routes available?

Yes, Cronstown features several circular routes, which are popular for their convenience. Examples include the Movilla Abbey loop from Newtownards North ED and the Helen's Tower – Lead Mine Tower loop from Newtownards, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.

What interesting sights or landmarks can I see while hiking in Cronstown?

While hiking in Cronstown, you can explore various local landmarks and points of interest. Notable attractions include historical sites like Helen's Tower and Grey Point Fort, as well as the unique Ballycopeland Windmill. Some routes also pass by Helen's Bay Beach or utilize sections of The Comber Greenway.

When is the best time of year to go hiking in Cronstown?

Given the mild landscape and accessible paths, hiking in Cronstown is enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and scenic views, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Even in winter, many trails remain accessible due to the gentle terrain, though appropriate gear is always recommended.

Are there places to eat or drink near the hiking trails?

While specific amenities vary by trailhead, many routes around Cronstown are close to local towns or villages where you can find cafes, pubs, and other establishments to refresh yourself before or after your hike.

What do other hikers say about the trails in Cronstown?

The hiking experience in Cronstown is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 stars from over 70 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained paths, the ease of access, and the pleasant, gentle nature of the routes.

How many hiking trails are there in Cronstown?

There are over 100 hiking trails available around Cronstown, offering a wide variety of options for different preferences. The majority of these, about 70%, are classified as easy, with the remaining 30% being of moderate difficulty.

Are there any challenging hikes in Cronstown?

The hiking trails in Cronstown are primarily known for their gentle terrain and accessibility. There are no routes classified as difficult, with the most challenging options falling into the moderate category. These moderate trails still feature accessible paths and do not involve significant mountainous ascents.

How accessible are Cronstown's hiking trails by public transport?

Accessibility by public transport varies depending on the specific trailhead. Some routes may be reachable via local bus services, particularly those starting near towns. It's advisable to check local public transport schedules and routes for the specific starting point of your chosen hike.

Is parking available at the trailheads?

Parking availability can vary. Many popular trailheads or starting points near towns and attractions often have designated parking areas. For more remote routes, roadside parking might be an option, but it's always recommended to plan ahead and check for specific parking information for your chosen trail.

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