The best walks and hikes around Ards

Yes, there are over 40 trails to explore. The majority are rated as easy, with a handful of moderate routes available, making the area very accessible for most walkers.

The trails in the Ards region are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning views over Strangford Lough and the well-maintained paths through woodlands and coastal areas.

Absolutely. The region is great for families. A particularly good option is the Sketrick Island loop via Sketrick Castle. It's a short, easy walk of about 2 km that includes a castle, which is always a hit with younger explorers.

Many trails in the Ards area are suitable for dogs, but it's important to check local signage for specific rules, especially regarding leads in nature reserves or near livestock. Killynether Wood is a popular spot for dog walkers, offering woodland paths for them to explore.

For panoramic views, Scrabo Country Park is unmatched. The climb to the iconic Scrabo Tower rewards you with breathtaking vistas over Strangford Lough, the Mourne Mountains, and even Scotland on a clear day. The park itself is highly regarded by locals for its scenery.

Yes, the area has several easy circular routes. The Rough Island loop is a great example. It's a very gentle and short walk, perfect for a quick stroll to enjoy the lough's scenery.

The Ards Peninsula offers fantastic coastal walking. You can explore varied shorelines, from sandy beaches to rocky coves. The Kearney coastal walk is a wonderful flat trail that follows the coastline, offering great sea views and birdwatching opportunities.

The routes up to Scrabo Tower involve a steady climb but are generally considered easy to moderate. For example, the Scrabo Tower loop from Newtownards is a 6.3 km walk with about 180 meters of ascent. While there are some steep sections, the paths are well-defined and the effort is well worth it for the views.

While most trails are short and easy, you can combine paths for a longer day out. The area is also part of the Lecale Way, a long-distance path. For a moderately challenging loop, consider the Helen's Tower loop, which is around 4 km and offers a good mix of woodland and history.

For a peaceful experience, Kiltonga Nature Reserve is a popular local spot just outside Newtownards. It offers gentle paths around lakes and is an excellent place for birdwatching and escaping the hustle and bustle.

Yes, major starting points like Scrabo Country Park and Mount Stewart have dedicated car parks. For smaller trails, parking may be more limited to lay-bys or on-street parking in nearby villages. It's always best to arrive early on sunny weekends to secure a spot.