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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

Easy

Newry Canal Way

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

2

Medium

Lough Shannagh

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

3

Medium

St Patrick's Way

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

4

Medium

Castlewellan Forest Park - Annesley Garden Walk

County Down, Northern Ireland · star N/A (0) · 4.4 km · Est. 1 hrs 7 min

5

Medium

Fairhead Loch Na Crannóige Walk

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

6

Easy

Lake Walk at Castle Coole

County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland · star N/A (0) · 2.4 km · Est. 31 min

7

Easy

Crom Wildlife Walk

County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland · star N/A (0) · 6.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 28 min

8

Medium

Fairhead Murlough View Walk

County Antrim, Northern Ireland · star 5.0 (1) · 4.5 km · Est. 1 hrs 13 min

9

Easy

Waterworks

Antrim, Northern Ireland · star 5.0 (1) · 2.3 km · Est. 29 min

10

Easy

Moorish Tower Walk

County Down, Northern Ireland · star N/A (0) · 5.0 km · Est. 1 hrs 9 min

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Reviews for lake hikes in Northern Ireland

Sara avatar

Newry Canal Way

Sara · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

erik magnus ellison avatar

Lough Shannagh

TrailTrekkerErik · reviewed 6 months ago

star star star star star

Up to lough and back nice sunday stretch

Patrick Dawson avatar

St Patrick's Way

Patrick · reviewed 17 days ago

star star star star star

No reviews available for Castlewellan Forest Park - Annesley Garden Walk.

Ron Headrest avatar

Fairhead Loch Na Crannóige Walk

Ron Headrest · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Nice trail with spectacular views from top of cliffs. Dogs generally not allowed, but landowner was ok with us bringing small dog on lead (also was outside of lambing season). Trail marked with white way-marker posts along cliff top section: caution in poor visibility as trail runs close to cliff edge.

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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