The best walks and hikes around Dunmurry
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Hikes around Dunmurry provide access to a varied landscape on the outskirts of Belfast. The area is characterized by the River Lagan and its towpath, which runs through the expansive Lagan Valley Regional Park. The terrain includes level riverside paths, rolling meadows in local parks, and the more rugged, open heath of the nearby Belfast Hills.
Best hiking trails around Dunmurry
- The most popular hiking route is Lagan River – View of the River Lagan loop from Lagan Valley AONB, a 10.3 mile (16.6 km) trail that takes around 4 hours 25 minutes to complete. This route follows the river, offering a long and scenic walk through the regional park.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Shaw's Bridge – Red Bridge loop from Finaghy, a moderate 5.0 mile (8.1 km) path. The trail features a mix of woodland and riverside sections along the Lagan.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Milas Lake loop from Poleglass, a 4.2 mile (6.8 km) trail leading through local parkland, often completed in about 1 hour 50 minutes.
- Hiking around Dunmurry is defined by riverside towpaths, wooded glens, and access to the open hillsides of the Belfast Hills. The network of walking trails near Dunmurry offers routes suitable for various fitness levels.
- The routes in Dunmurry are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 200 reviews. More than 4,300 hikers have used komoot to explore Dunmurry's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
3.7
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84
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3.99km
01:02
20m
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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 of just 74 feet (22 metres), making it a perfect choice for a leisurely outing that takes about 1 hour and 2 minutes. As you follow the riverbanks, you will pass through peaceful woodland and riverside beech trees, offering a chance to spot local wildlife like dippers and kingfishers. Keep an eye out for the charming Minnowburn Bridge, a picturesque stone archway that adds to the natural beauty of the area.
Planning your visit to the Riverside Circular Walk is straightforward, as parking is conveniently available nearby. The trail features generally accessible paths, primarily composed of flat gravel and tarmac, ensuring a comfortable experience for most hikers. While the route is mostly even, be aware that some sections may have shallow gradients, and surfaces can become slippery, especially when wet. This makes it a great option for a relaxed walk at almost any time of day, provided you wear appropriate footwear.
This trail is nestled within the scenic Lagan Valley Regional Park, offering a refreshing escape into nature close to urban areas. In spring, the riverbanks burst into vibrant color with daffodils and bluebells, creating a particularly lovely atmosphere. The diverse scenery, from open river views to shaded woodland, provides a varied and engaging experience without demanding strenuous effort. It is a wonderful way to connect with the natural environment and enjoy the peaceful flow of the River Lagan.
5.0
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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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13
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18.3km
04:46
120m
120m
Hike the 11.4-mile Lagan Towpath and Barnett Demesne Loop, a moderate route combining riverside paths, parkland, and historic sites near Bel
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7.41km
01:56
50m
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This easy 4.6-mile loop near Belfast offers diverse scenery, from riverside paths to woodlands, passing historic Malone House.
3.08km
00:48
20m
20m
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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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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Although a tiny lake and more so a pond, Mila's lake is an ideal spot for a quick hike in nature.
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Located in South Belfast and once a private estate, Barnett Demesne is now a public park since 1951. The park itself includes plenty of walk/hike opportunities, gardens, an arboretum & a children's playground.
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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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The Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park is one of the most popular green spaces in Belfast. The park covers a huge area – 130 acres (52 ha) in total. The park has lots of diverse landscapes including woodland, formal rose gardens, meadows, riverside fields, a Japanese garden and a walled garden.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there around Dunmurry?
There are over 200 hiking routes to explore around Dunmurry. The area offers a wide variety, from easy riverside strolls within Lagan Valley Regional Park to more challenging climbs in the nearby Belfast Hills.
What is the terrain like on the walking trails?
The terrain is quite varied. You'll find many level, surfaced paths along the River Lagan towpath and in parks like Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon. For more rugged experiences, the trails on Divis and the Black Mountain consist of open heath, blanket bog, and gravel tracks.
Are there any good family-friendly walks near Dunmurry?
Yes, Colin Glen Forest Park is a fantastic choice for families, featuring a beautiful river and the whimsical Gruffalo Trail which is a favourite with younger visitors. Another excellent option is Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park, which has several waymarked trails on surfaced paths through its famous gardens.
Where can I find a good circular walk?
For a moderate circular route, the Dipping Pond loop from Poleglass is a great option. This 4.8-mile (7.8 km) trail takes you through local parkland and offers a pleasant walk of about 2 hours.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails?
Many trails in the Dunmurry area are dog-friendly, especially in open spaces like Lagan Valley Regional Park and Belvoir Park Forest. However, some areas like Divis and the Black Mountain are working farms, so you must keep your dog on a lead to protect grazing livestock.
Where can I find the best views?
For spectacular panoramic views, head to Divis and the Black Mountain. This highly-regarded spot offers breathtaking 180-degree vistas across Belfast, Lough Neagh, and even as far as Scotland on a clear day. The trails here lead you through a wildlife-rich landscape to the summit.
What are the parking facilities like at the main trailheads?
Parking varies by location. Major sites like Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park and Colin Glen Forest Park have dedicated car parks. The car park at National Trust - Divis and the Black Mountain is very popular and can fill up quickly, so arriving early is recommended.
Can I get to the trails using public transport?
Yes, Dunmurry's location on the outskirts of Belfast provides good public transport links. Train and bus services connect to Dunmurry, from where you can access the Lagan Towpath and other local walks. This makes it easy to plan a hike without needing a car.
Are there any historical sites to see while hiking?
The Lagan Valley Regional Park is rich in history. While walking along the towpath, you can see relics of the old Lagan Canal and the area's linen industry. A short detour will also take you to the Giant's Ring, a significant Neolithic henge monument.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails around Dunmurry?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the variety of scenery, from the peaceful, flat towpaths along the River Lagan to the stunning, wide-open views from the Belfast Hills. The well-maintained paths in parks like Belvoir Park Forest are also frequently mentioned.
Are there any easy, shorter walks available?
Certainly. For a very accessible and short walk, consider the Mila's Lake loop from Poleglass. It's just under 2 miles (3.1 km) on mostly flat terrain and can be completed in about 50 minutes, making it perfect for a quick outing.
Where can I find a good forest walk?
Belvoir Park Forest is a popular favorite for woodland walks. It features 75 hectares of mature trees along the River Lagan, with numerous walking trails offering a peaceful escape. Redburn Country Park is another great option, known for its beautiful bluebells and walking paths through the woods.
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