The best walks and hikes around Drumhirk
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(90)
1,769
hikers
114
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Hiking around Drumhirk offers diverse landscapes, characterized by green, rolling hills and varied terrain. The region features country paths, quiet roads, and riverside trails, with unique karst landscapes and limestone formations. Woodlands and wetlands are also present, providing a range of natural environments for outdoor exploration.
Best hiking trails around Drumhirk
- The most popular hiking route is Movilla Abbey loop from Newtownards North ED, a 2.9 miles (4.7 km) trail that takes 1 hour 13 minutes to complete, leading…
Last updated: June 26, 2026
13
hikers
4.78km
01:15
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
hikers
6.94km
01:55
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5
hikers
3.60km
00:57
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
6.34km
01:45
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
3.70km
01:02
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Movilla was associated with Saint Finian in the 6th-century. As with many early monasteries, it was plundered by Vikings in the 9th century, but was refounded as an Augustinian abbey in the Norman 12th century and survived until the suppression of religious houses in the 1540s. It has the best collection of 13th Century coffin lids with foliate crosses in the Province. These are built into the inside north wall. Only one stone from the Pre-Norman period survives; it is marked with “Or do Dertrend”, “pray for Dertrend”. Later structures include the ruins of a 13th century church which was rebuilt in the 15th-century. A really fascinating stop.
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The grounds are huge and abound with history. You can only be struck by the character of the place. Especially considering the modern sprawl approaching the Abbeys walls.
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19th-century folly and lookout tower near Bangor. Named after the 5th Baron's mother, Helen. He intended it as a shrine for poems - Tennyson's Helen's Tower is the best known of them. Well worth a stop off to explore the architecture.
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Part of the Clandeboyle Estate, between the golf courses, there are some nice off-road trails. Close to Helen's Tower, so worth factoring that in.
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A lovely walk especially from Helens Bay - through rolling country side, however there is no signage but reasonable easy to follow - that is until to come to Helen's Tower - if you find it give yourself a Mars bar and if you manage to find your way to your cat at Whitespots car park - give yourself two Mars bars. Enjoy :-)
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Helen's Tower is a 19th-century folly and lookout tower near Bangor, County Down, Northern Ireland. It was built by the 5th Baron of Dufferin and Claneboye and named for his mother, Helen. He intended it as a shrine for poems, first of all a poem by his mother and then other poems that he solicited from famous poets over the years. Tennyson's Helen's Tower is the best known of them. The tower is a fine example of Scottish Baronial architecture. Helen's Tower inspired the design of the Ulster Tower, a war memorial at Thiepval, France. (Howley 1993) (Nicolson 1937). [from Wikipedia]
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when hiking around Drumhirk?
Hiking around Drumhirk offers a diverse range of landscapes. You'll encounter varied terrain including country paths, quiet roads, and riverside trails, especially along the Cavan Way. The region is known for its unique karst landscapes, limestone formations, and rolling hills, alongside woodlands and wetlands. Expect a mix of open moorland and forest sections.
How many hiking trails are available in Drumhirk?
There are over 100 hiking routes available around Drumhirk on komoot, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, Drumhirk offers plenty of easy hiking options. Out of the available routes, over 80 are rated as easy. For example, the Helen's Tower – Lead Mine Tower loop from Newtownards is an easy 4.3-mile (7.0 km) path featuring gentle ascents through varied terrain, including forest sections.
What natural landmarks or points of interest can I see while hiking in the Drumhirk area?
The Drumhirk area, particularly along the Cavan Way, is rich in natural landmarks. You can explore the unique karst landscapes of Cavan Burren Park, which offers views of Lough MacNean and Cuilcagh Mountain. The trail also passes the mystical Shannon Pot, recognized as the source of Ireland's longest river, and ascends into the impressive limestone landscape of the northern Cuilcagh Mountains.
Are there any waterfalls or caves to explore near Drumhirk?
Yes, within Belmore Forest, which is near Drumhirk Upper, you can find Pollnagollum Cave, Ireland's longest cave system. It's fed by a tumbling waterfall, offering a unique natural attraction. Caution is advised due to potentially unstable and slippery rocks.
Are there historical sites or ancient monuments along the trails?
Absolutely. The Cavan Way passes the Giant's Grave, an ancient passage tomb marking the highest point on the trail. Additionally, routes like the Movilla Abbey loop from Newtownards North ED lead through historical areas. Other nearby historical sites include Grey Point Fort, Ballycopeland Windmill, and Helen's Tower.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Drumhirk?
The hiking routes in Drumhirk are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 70 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from karst formations to woodlands, and the well-maintained paths that offer varied experiences.
Are there circular hiking routes available in Drumhirk?
Yes, many of the trails around Drumhirk are circular. For instance, the Helen's Tower – Lead Mine Tower loop from Ballyharry is a moderate 5.9-mile (9.5 km) circular trail offering views over the surrounding countryside.
Is Drumhirk a good destination for family-friendly hikes?
Yes, the region offers many routes suitable for families. With over 80 easy trails, you can find paths with gentle ascents and varied terrain that are enjoyable for all ages. The mix of woodlands and open fields provides engaging environments for children to explore.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Drumhirk?
Many trails in the Drumhirk area are suitable for dogs, especially those through woodlands and open country paths. However, it's always recommended to check specific trail regulations and local signage, particularly in protected areas or near livestock, and to keep dogs on a leash where required.
Are there good viewpoints to enjoy the scenery around Drumhirk?
Yes, the region offers several excellent viewpoints. The Cuilcagh Mountains provide magnificent views over Lough Macnean Upper and Lower. Additionally, Cavan Burren Park offers breathtaking views, and Belmore Forest provides scenic vistas over the surrounding County Down countryside, including glimpses of the Mourne Mountains.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Drumhirk?
The best time to hike in Drumhirk is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) when the weather is milder and the days are longer. This allows for more comfortable exploration of the diverse landscapes, including the open moorland and karst terrain.
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