The best walks and hikes around Gilnahirk
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3,575
hikers
235
hikes
Hikes near Gilnahirk Belfast provide access to a network of urban parks, greenways, and riverside paths on the eastern edge of the city. The area is characterized by its mix of manicured estate grounds, semi-wild woodlands, and level trails through local parks. This offers a variety of walking environments, from formal parkland routes to more extensive paths connecting different green spaces.
Best hiking trails around Gilnahirk
- The most popular hiking route is Belmont Park & Stormont Estate loop — Belfast…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
13
hikers
10.7km
02:49
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
56
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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38
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
23
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
6.77km
01:45
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The paths meander through lush greenery that makes you feel like you're far away from the city. A well-kept park that offers space for both exercise and relaxed rolling. The tree-lined avenues are particularly beautiful - perfect for cycling in the interplay of light and shadow. The route also runs along the Connswater Community Greenway, a green corridor through Belfast that beautifully connects Orangefield Park with other green areas of the city. The evening atmosphere with the play of light on the manicured lawn and the clouds over Belfast is definitely worth a moment to pause - a calm contrast to the otherwise busy city. Ideal for a relaxed ride in the early morning or to wind down in the evening without being too far away.
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Here, in the middle of the city, the characters from The Chronicles of Narnia come to life in the form of impressive bronze sculptures. As a cyclist, you pass right by the square and can pause for a moment to immerse yourself in this fantastic world. The sculptures of Aslan, the mighty lion, and the White Witch's throne in particular attract attention. The details of the figures are impressive and give the characters a special presence. The square is not only a place for literature lovers, but also an interesting work of art in the open air - a change from the usual sights. CS Lewis, the famous writer and son of the city, is omnipresent here and also makes this place a small piece of Belfast history.
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Located in East Belfast, Belmont Park is a pleasant park with a large network of paths, grassland and gorgeous seasonal bluebell meadows.
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Throughout WWI, many bombes were dropped in Belfast, along with land mines placed throughout the city and surrounding areas. While most areas have been refilled since the war, this spot is unique as it still remains how it was as a bomb crater from the war.
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The park has an ecotrail, outdoor gym and children's playground. The park also contains Orangefield Playing Fields with a bowling green, tennis courts, soccer pitches and a Velodrome !
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The Velodrome has to be booked through Belfast City Councils webpage ( book the football pitch for entry to Velodrome ) https://www.belfastcity.gov.uk/Things-to-Do/Outdoor-leisure-activities/Sports-pitches-and-facilities/Book-a-pitch
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This trail will take you to the places that inspired the young C.S. Lewis, one of our most famous literary sons, best known for his magical world of Narnia. Clive Staples Lewis was born in Belfast on 29 November 1898 and grew up in family homes on Dundela Avenue and Circular Road in the east of the city. The trail starts at 'The Searcher' sculpture outside Holywood Arches Library on the Holywood Road and includes sites such as C.S. Lewis Square (containing 7 Narnia inspired sculptures), St. Mark's Church, where his grandfather was rector and where Lewis himself was baptised, and No. 47 Dundela Avenue where a Blue Plaque marks where the writer was born.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many walking trails to choose from around Gilnahirk?
Yes, there are over 250 marked hiking routes in the Gilnahirk area. These range from short, easy strolls through local parks to more moderate trails connecting different green spaces, offering plenty of options for all fitness levels.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in this area?
The trails around Gilnahirk are highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the mix of well-maintained parkland paths, such as those in Stormont Estate, and the peaceful, semi-wild atmosphere of places like Belmont Park and Cregagh Glen.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks near Gilnahirk?
Absolutely. The area is excellent for family outings. Stormont Estate offers surfaced paths, open spaces, and the Mo Mowlam Play Park. A great option is the Statue of Sir Edward Carson – Stormont Estate loop from Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, which is a short and manageable walk entirely within the estate grounds.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Many trails in the area are dog-friendly, but rules vary. In managed parks like Stormont Estate, dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead. In more open areas like parts of Lagan Valley Regional Park, there may be more freedom, but it's always best to check local signage, especially near farmland or wildlife reserves.
Where can I find free parking for the main hiking areas?
Free parking is available at several key locations. Stormont Estate has multiple car parks, though they can be busy. For popular spots managed by the National Trust, such as Lisnabreeny and Divis Mountain, it's highly recommended to arrive early as the car parks fill up quickly, particularly on weekends.
Are the trails accessible by public transport?
Yes, being on the edge of Belfast, many trailheads are accessible via the city's bus network. Parks like Stormont Estate, Belmont Park, and access points for the Comber Greenway are all well-served by public transport, making it easy to plan a walk without a car.
Are there any circular walks available?
Yes, many of the most popular routes are loops. For a shorter circular walk, the Stormont Estate – WWII Luftwaffe Bomb Crater loop from Tullycarnet is a great choice that explores the historic estate grounds. Most parkland trails in the area are designed as loops, making for convenient and varied walks.
What are some of the best spots for scenic views?
For some of the most rewarding panoramic views over Belfast and the surrounding landscape, a visit to the nearby National Trust sites is a must. Both Divis and the Black Mountain and Lisnabreeny offer trails that climb to excellent viewpoints. On a clear day, the vistas are spectacular.
Are there any challenging hikes in the Gilnahirk area?
While the immediate Gilnahirk area is known for its gentle parkland trails, more challenging terrain is just a short drive away. The trails at Black Mountain and the higher routes within the Castlereagh Hills provide more strenuous climbs and rugged paths for those seeking a tougher hike.
Can I go for a walk and then stop at a pub or cafe?
Yes, the area's suburban setting means you're never far from refreshments. After a walk along the Comber Greenway or through Belmont Park, you can easily find pubs and cafes in the nearby Belmont and Ballyhackamore areas, which are well-known for their excellent food and drink options.
What kind of wildlife might I see while hiking?
The diverse habitats support a variety of wildlife. In woodlands and parks like Belmont Park, you can expect to see robins, finches, and squirrels. Along the River Lagan in the Lagan Valley Regional Park, you might be lucky enough to spot kingfishers, otters, and mute swans.
Are there any trails with historical significance?
Yes, the region is rich in history. The grounds of Stormont Estate are home to the Parliament Buildings and Stormont Castle. For ancient history, the nearby Lagan Valley Regional Park contains the Giant's Ring, a Neolithic henge monument that predates the pyramids. The Comber Greenway also follows the path of a former railway, highlighting the area's industrial heritage.
Most popular attractions around Gilnahirk
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