The best walks and hikes around Islandmore
4.6
(51)
419
hikers
11
hikes
Hiking around Islandmore offers a network of trails primarily located around the Strangford Lough area in Northern Ireland. The landscape is characterized by coastal paths, parkland, and gentle elevations, providing accessible outdoor experiences. Routes often feature views of the lough and historical sites, with varied terrain suitable for different activity levels.
Best hiking trails around Islandmore
- The most popular hiking route is Delamont Long Walk, a 3.3 miles (5.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 25 minutes to complete,…
Last updated: October 14, 2026
4.4
(8)
54
hikers
5.27km
01:25
70m
70m
Embark on the Delamont Long Walk, an easy hiking route that guides you through the scenic Delamont Country Park. This pleasant 3.3-mile (5.3 km) journey involves a gentle elevation gain…
8
hikers
1.96km
00:31
10m
10m
Hike the easy 1.2-mile Sketrick Island loop via Sketrick Castle, offering picturesque lakeside views and historic ruins in just 30 minutes.
4.5
(2)
29
hikers
5.70km
01:33
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
18
hikers
8.57km
02:17
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
2.80km
00:44
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
This section feels like a green oasis - the path winds through dense trees that provide cool shade and create the perfect contrast to the warm summer sun. The leaves rustle gently in the wind and there is a peaceful silence that immediately relaxes you. As soon as you leave the forest, the landscape opens up and reveals a view of wide fields that dance like waves in the wind. Here you feel completely connected to nature, a moment to enjoy and take a deep breath before moving on. A real insider tip for a relaxed tour in the countryside!
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This 15th-century three-storey tower house stands on a rocky outcrop overlooking Strangford Lough and offers commanding views of the surrounding countryside. Named after its 16th-century owner, John Audley, the tower is a typical example of the numerous stone towers built for the lesser nobility in the late Middle Ages.
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When you cycle along the banks of this natural harbour, you immediately feel the special atmosphere of this place, which has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The lough stretches an impressive 26 kilometres in length and impresses with over 365 small islands, many of which dry out at low tide. On your way you will repeatedly come across fascinating traces of long-gone cultures: from Mesolithic sites to Bronze Age remains to stone fish fences that were used by the early inhabitants for fishing. The Køkkenmøddinger are particularly interesting - shell heaps made of local oysters that have survived for thousands of years. There is a lot to discover in places like Mahee Island or Rough Island, and at low tide you can even reach Rough Island on foot. If you are up for a little effort, the climb up Scrabo Hill near Newtownards is worth it. From up there you have a magnificent view: Belfast stretches out to the west, the Mourne Mountains to the south, and on a clear day you can see the Ards Peninsula and even the Isle of Man. This hill has a long history - it has been inhabited since the Neolithic period. Strangford Lough is not only scenically beautiful, but also an exciting area for anyone interested in archaeology and history. Whether you are interested in nature or history, this tour around the lough is sure to be a memorable one.
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Wikipedia (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%27s_Castle https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%E2%80%99s_Castle Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/audleys-castle-p707501 Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Visit Game of Thrones - Filming Locations, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/blog/read/2020/06/visit-game-of-thrones-filming-locations-b147 “… Within the Castle Ward demesne, you can make your way over to Audley's Field where Robb Stark meets Talisa after the battle at Oxcross. …“ #GoT #BattleOfOxcross #WarOfTheFiveKings
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Wikipedia (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%27s_Castle https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%E2%80%99s_Castle Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/audleys-castle-p707501 Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Visit Game of Thrones - Filming Locations, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/blog/read/2020/06/visit-game-of-thrones-filming-locations-b147 “… Within the Castle Ward demesne, you can make your way over to Audley's Field where Robb Stark meets Talisa after the battle at Oxcross. …“ #GoT #BattleOfOxcross #WarOfTheFiveKings
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National Trust (Castle Ward, 2023-12-24): https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/castle-ward https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tl_SVBg9R8U Wikipedia (Castle Ward, 2023-12-24): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward “… The most interesting aspect of Castle Ward is that of its dual architecture, representing the differing tastes of Lord Bangor and his wife, Lady Ann Bligh. While the entrance side of the building is done in a classical Palladian style with columns supporting a triangular pediment, the opposite side is Georgian Gothic with pointed windows, battlements and finials. …”
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Great place for a run along the coastline.
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In a fairly secluded location, Audleystown Wood is a pleasant, forested area with contrasting views of water and land, ideal for a picnic stop during your ride.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Islandmore?
There are over 10 hiking trails documented around Islandmore, offering a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. The area is particularly well-suited for easy and moderate walks.
What are the typical difficulty levels for hikes in Islandmore?
The hiking trails around Islandmore are predominantly easy, with 9 out of 11 routes falling into this category. There are also 2 moderate trails for those seeking a bit more challenge, but no difficult routes are listed.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Islandmore?
Yes, many of the trails around Islandmore are ideal for families due to their easy difficulty and gentle terrain. Routes like the Delamont Long Walk in Delamont Country Park offer accessible paths suitable for all ages.
Can I bring my dog on hikes around Islandmore?
While specific regulations for every trail are not detailed, the parkland and coastal paths around Islandmore are generally welcoming to dogs, provided they are kept under control, especially around wildlife or livestock. Always check local signage for any specific restrictions.
Are there many circular hiking routes in Islandmore?
Yes, several popular routes around Islandmore are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Sketrick Island loop via Sketrick Castle and the Strangford Stone – Delamont Country Park loop from Mullagh.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on the trails?
Hiking around Islandmore offers scenic coastal paths with views of Strangford Lough, alongside parkland and gentle elevations. You can also explore areas like Delamont Country Park, which features open spaces and natural beauty.
Are there any interesting historical landmarks along the hiking routes?
Yes, the area is rich in history. You can encounter landmarks such as Sketrick Castle on the Sketrick Island loop, or Audley's Castle, which is part of the Audley's Castle loop from Portaferry. The Castle Ward – Castle Ward Shore Car Park loop also passes by the historic Castle Ward.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Islandmore?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessible coastal paths, the peaceful parkland scenery, and the opportunity to discover historical sites like castles and monuments.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Many of the popular hiking areas, such as Delamont Country Park and Castle Ward, offer dedicated parking facilities. For specific routes, it's advisable to check the route details on komoot for information on nearby parking options.
What is the best time of year to hike around Islandmore?
The coastal and parkland trails around Islandmore are generally enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer milder weather and lush scenery, while autumn provides beautiful colors. Winter hikes are also possible, though conditions can be wetter and windier, especially along the coast.
Are there any routes that offer views of the Strangford Stone?
Yes, the Strangford Stone – Delamont Country Park loop from Mullagh specifically features views towards the impressive Strangford Stone, a notable landmark in the area.
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