The best walks and hikes around Lisdoonan
4.4
(59)
1,397
hikers
49
hikes
Hikes near Lisdoonan County Monaghan explore a landscape of rolling drumlins, serene forest parks, and riverside paths. The region offers a mix of gentle lakeside loops and woodland trails, making it accessible for various fitness levels. Many routes follow well-maintained towpaths and park trails, providing straightforward navigation through the area's natural and historic scenery.
Best hiking trails around Lisdoonan
- The most popular hiking route is the Lagan Towpath loop — Lagan Valley, a 2.5 mile (4.0 km) trail that…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
3.7
(6)
84
hikers
3.99km
01:02
20m
20m
Embark on the Riverside Circular Walk, Minnowburn, an easy hike that guides you along the tranquil River Lagan. This route spans 2.5 miles (4.0 km) with a gentle elevation gain…
5.0
(3)
49
hikers
3.41km
00:54
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
25
hikers
8.01km
02:07
80m
80m
Hike a moderate 5.0-mile trail through Belvoir Park Forest and Lagan Meadows, enjoying woodland, river views, and historical sites.
5.0
(2)
8
hikers
7.41km
01:56
50m
50m
This easy 4.6-mile loop near Belfast offers diverse scenery, from riverside paths to woodlands, passing historic Malone House.
5.0
(2)
44
hikers
3.54km
00:57
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The facility is of impressive size.
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The structure consists of a circular earthen ring with a diameter of 180 m and an area of 28,000 square meters, surrounded by an earthen rampart 3.5 m high. At least three of the five irregularly distributed gaps in the ring are intentional and possibly original. East of the center of the ring is a small passage grave with a westward-facing entrance.
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Very nice cafe-restaurant with good food and beautiful garden
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There is probably no better way to get to Belfast city centre by bike.
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As you get closer, the mystical aura of the place unfolds, with its mighty, almost circular earthen wall, which measures over 180 meters in diameter and dominates the view over the surrounding plateau. This ancient henge complex is one of the largest and best-preserved monuments of its kind in Ireland - hard to miss when you get close to Shaw's Bridge. In the center of the ring, a megalithic tomb awaits you, which tells its own story with its five supporting stones and a mighty capstone. You can literally feel the thousands of years that have passed here since ceremonies and gatherings probably took place at this place. It is impressive how the Giant's Ring has survived over time, while the wooden structures of the Ballynahatty settlements are long gone.
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Nice at any time of the year but Autumn is especially beautiful for a riverside run
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A working forest just outside of Belfast dating back to 1961, Belvoir Park Forest is a gorgeous, lush forest park that overs 75 hectares alongside the south side of the River Lagan. The forest is also home to a number of historic sites, including the 12th century Norman motte.
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Running from Belfast to Lisburn, the Lagan Towpath is a pleasant, walk around the River Lagan with peaceful surroundings such as wetland, riverside meadows, & woodlands. The canal system itself dates back to the late 18th century and now offers a glimpse into the area's past.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any family-friendly walks near Lisdoonan?
Yes, the area is well-suited for family outings. A great option is the Lagan Towpath loop — Lagan Valley, which is a flat and easy 4 km walk along the river. For a woodland adventure, Rossmore Forest Park is a popular choice with its enchanting trails, castle ruins, and giant sculptures.
What are some good trails for beginners?
The region has many accessible trails perfect for those new to hiking. The Giant's Ring loop — Lagan Valley is a short, 3.4 km walk through open parkland that is mostly flat. Another excellent choice is the trail system within Lough Muckno Leisure Park, which offers gentle lakeside paths.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Many trails in the area are suitable for walking with dogs, but they should generally be kept on a leash, especially in parks and near farmland. The Fairy Glen is a well-regarded walk popular with dog walkers. Always check local signage at trailheads, as rules can vary, particularly in areas with livestock or protected wildlife.
Are there any hikes with waterfalls?
Yes, for a scenic walk featuring waterfalls, consider the Cregagh Glen Waterfalls loop from Cregagh. This route involves some climbing but rewards you with lovely views of the cascades within the glen.
What is the typical length and difficulty of the hikes?
Most hikes around Lisdoonan are easy to moderate. You'll find many shorter loops under 5 km that take about an hour, as well as longer routes like the 8 km Belvoir Park Forest loop — Lagan Valley. The terrain is mostly rolling hills, forest paths, and flat towpaths, with very few steep or technically difficult sections.
Are there any circular or loop walks available?
Yes, many of the best walks in the region are loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same place without retracing your steps. The Sir Thomas & Lady Dixon Park loop — Lagan Valley is a pleasant 7.4 km circular route. The Sliabh Beagh area also features several looped walks through its distinct bogland and mountain landscape.
Where can I find parking for the trails?
Most of the established trailheads have dedicated parking. Popular locations like Rossmore Forest Park and Lough Muckno Leisure Park have ample parking available. For trails starting in or near towns, you can typically use public car parks. It's always a good idea to arrive early on weekends, as the most popular spots can fill up.
Are there any pubs or cafes to visit after a hike?
While the immediate trail areas are focused on nature, the nearby towns like Carrickmacross, Castleblayney, and Monaghan Town offer a variety of traditional pubs, cafes, and restaurants. These are just a short drive from the main parks and provide a perfect place to relax and have a meal after your walk.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Lisdoonan?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere of the forest parks, the well-maintained paths, and the scenic beauty of the region's lakes and rolling drumlin landscape.
How many hiking trails are available around Lisdoonan?
There are over 50 curated hiking routes to explore around Lisdoonan on komoot. These range from short, easy walks to more moderate forest treks, with the majority being accessible for most fitness levels.
Are there any historical or heritage trails in the area?
Yes, County Monaghan is rich in history. The Patrick Kavanagh Trail in Inniskeen is a notable route that lets you walk through the landscape that inspired the famous poet. Additionally, the Ulster Canal Greenway follows a historic towpath, passing old locks and bridges that tell the story of the region's industrial past.
When is the best time of year to hike around Lisdoonan?
You can hike here year-round, but spring and summer are particularly beautiful when the wildflowers are in bloom and the forests are lush and green. Autumn offers stunning colours, especially in the woodland parks. Winter walks can be crisp and quiet, but be sure to wear appropriate waterproof footwear as trails can be muddy.
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