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Best lake hikes in Northern Ireland
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Best lake hikes in Northern Ireland

Want a hike where the views are as smooth as the water's surface? These lake-side paths will have you reflecting on nature's beauty.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Northern Ireland.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

St Patrick's Way

County Armagh, Northern Ireland · star 4.9 (16) · 139.7 km · Est. 6 days

2

Extra Difficult

Mourne Wall Walk

County Down, Northern Ireland · star 4.9 (12) · 30.7 km · Est. 2 days

3

Easy

Lecale Way

County Down, Northern Ireland · star 4.8 (4) · 75.9 km · Est. 3 days

4

Easy

Rathlin Island Roonivoolin Walk

County Antrim, Northern Ireland · star 5.0 (2) · 10.2 km · Est. 2 hrs 17 min

5

Medium

Saint Patrick’s Way - The Pilgrims Walk

County Armagh, Northern Ireland · star 5.0 (1) · 144.3 km · Est. 6 days

6

Medium

Lough Shannagh

County Down, Northern Ireland · star 4.5 (2) · 12.7 km · Est. 3 hrs 11 min

7

Easy

Newry Canal Way

County Armagh, Northern Ireland · star 5.0 (1) · 31.3 km · Est. 6 hrs 32 min

8

Medium

Fairhead Loch Na Crannóige Walk

County Antrim, Northern Ireland · star 4.8 (4) · 5.4 km · Est. 1 hrs 20 min

9

Easy

Loughmacrory Lough

County Tyrone, Northern Ireland · star N/A (0) · 2.6 km · Est. 33 min

10

Easy

Lough Navar Forest – Lough Navar Lakes Walk

County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland · star N/A (0) · 9.1 km · Est. 2 hrs 1 min

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Reviews for lake hikes in Northern Ireland

Patrick Dawson avatar

St Patrick's Way

Patrick · reviewed about 2 months ago

star star star star star

Andrew Bhamra avatar

Mourne Wall Walk

Andrew Bhamra · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Hard walk, with rewarding views of the main Mourne Mountains and sea views over Newcastle.

Bob the Juggler avatar

Lecale Way

Bob the juggler · reviewed over 3 years ago

star star star star star

This is the closest trail to my house in Crossgar near Downpatrick so did it over a few weekends in 2020. Some sections were very overgrown, particularly at Raholp before Strangford. But as the walk goes on you are treated to some stunning coastal scenery. After Strangford the route sends you down Black Causeway Road but I would recommend sticking to the coastal road instead - either way you’ll be walking on roads but by sticking to the coast at least you’ll have better views and might even see some seals at the viewpoint near seal cabin. Path was fairly overgrown between Ballyhornan and Ardglass as well but still passable. I will try and walk some of these overgrown sections again to see if any improvements have been made. I recorded the trail for my you tube channel if you are interested in seeing it in more detail. https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXyVA1GPc5-BfQeUn_qEqkHrUYHApxXtl

Fiona Sheahan avatar

Rathlin Island Roonivoolin Walk

FiShea · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

avatar

Saint Patrick’s Way - The Pilgrims Walk

HollowWilderness93 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Northern Ireland

What is the climate like for hiking in Northern Ireland?

Northern Ireland's climate is temperate, with relatively mild winters and cool summers, making it possible to hike all year round. However, weather changes rapidly, with rain being a frequent occurrence, so waterproof gear and layered clothing are advisable. Spring and autumn are generally less crowded and offer delightful scenery, while winter hiking can be challenging due to shorter daylight hours and icy paths.
Summers are cooler than much of mainland UK, with temperatures averaging around 15-20°C (59-68°F), and providing longer daylight hours, ideal for lengthy hikes. Despite this, summer's unpredictability can lead to sudden rain showers, requiring hikers to be prepared for changing conditions.
The best time for hiking in Northern Ireland often falls between April and October, encompassing late spring, summer, and early autumn. This period offers the most stable weather conditions and picturesque views. Hikers can enjoy locations like the Mourne Mountains, the Giant's Causeway, and the Glenariff Forest Park during these months. For more detailed weather information, check the Met Office (https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/).

Do I need a permit to hike in Northern Ireland?

In Northern Ireland, the majority of hiking trails are open and free to the public without a permit. For specific areas or events, such as organised group hikes, you might need permission from the landowner or the relevant local authority. For assistance, contact Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland (https://www.outdoorrecreationni.com/).

Is wild camping allowed in Northern Ireland?

Wild camping in Northern Ireland is not strictly legal without the landowner's permission. However, it's often tolerated in higher land and mountain areas, provided campers follow "leave no trace" principles. If in doubt, contact Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland (https://www.outdoorrecreationni.com/) for advice.

Are there mountain rescue services in Northern Ireland?

In case of emergencies while hiking in Northern Ireland, you should contact the police by dialling 999 or 112 and ask for Mountain Rescue. They work with the PSNI to provide rescue services. More information is available at the Mountain Rescue Ireland website https://nimrt.org/

Are there dangerous plants in Northern Ireland?

Northern Ireland's hiking trails are graced with an array of flora, from wildflowers to ancient woodlands. Notable are the bluebells in spring, the purple heather on the mountains in late summer, and the oak and ash trees in forests. For more information, refer to the Woodland Trust (https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Northern Ireland?

While hiking in Northern Ireland, you may encounter wildlife such as red deer, foxes, and badgers. The summer months bring out insects like midges, especially near water. Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife and consider insect repellent. For more, visit the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/).

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