The best walks and hikes around Broughshane Upper

Yes, the region is well-suited for family outings. The area around the River Braid is particularly good for a gentle stroll. For a walk with a bit more to see, Houston's Mill Park and Garden offers scenic paths along the river, a wild bird sanctuary, and charming fairy houses that are a hit with younger children.

Many trails in the area are suitable for walking with dogs, provided they are kept on a lead. The River Braid Walk is a popular choice for dog walkers. For a more extensive outing, the wider Antrim Coast and Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is known for being dog-friendly. Always be mindful of local signage, especially in areas with livestock.

The area specializes in gentle walks. For a pleasant and accessible route, consider the Galgorm Castle loop from Galgorm. It's a relatively short walk of about 4.9 km, perfect for a relaxed afternoon.

While most local trails are gentle, the most famous challenge is Slemish Mountain. This steep, rocky scramble to the summit of an ancient volcanic plug is strenuous but rewards hikers with panoramic views of County Antrim. The climb is short but intense and requires good footwear.

For the most dramatic, far-reaching views, the summit of Slemish Mountain is unmatched in the immediate area. On a clear day, the panoramic vista covers much of the surrounding countryside. For a different kind of scenery, the trails in Glenariff Forest Park offer stunning views of waterfalls and lush glens.

Yes, many of the local routes are designed as loops. A good example is the Devenagh Burn Riverbank loop from Broughshane, which provides a pleasant circular walk of just under 7 km along the river.

The majority of hikes follow gentle river valleys, particularly along the River Braid and Devenagh Burn. You can expect mostly flat, accessible paths through woodlands and along riverbanks with minimal elevation gain. The main exception is the steep and rocky ascent of Slemish Mountain.

Slemish Mountain is famous for its connection to Saint Patrick, who is said to have tended sheep on its slopes. The hike is a 1.2-mile round trip that is very steep and involves a rocky scramble near the top. It's a challenging but quick ascent, typically taking about an hour. Ensure you have sturdy, grippy footwear. Parking is available at the base.

For waterfalls, a short drive to Glenariff Forest Park is highly recommended. Known as the 'Queen of the Glens', it features a popular Waterfall Walkway with impressive cascades. It's a local favourite, especially after rainfall when the rivers are full.

There are over a dozen designated hiking routes in and around Broughshane Upper. The selection includes 8 easy walks perfect for casual strolls and 4 moderate trails for those looking for a slightly longer outing.

The komoot community has explored the area extensively. While individual ratings vary, the trails are generally appreciated for their peaceful riverside settings and accessibility. The gentle paths through local parklands and countryside are often highlighted as a key feature.