Surrounded by a choice of scenic walks, of varying lengths and terrain, there’s something for the leisurely stroller and the more avid walker.
We’ve compiled a list of some of our favourite local trails, with options for more strenuous hikes, including the Mourne Mountains, less than an hour’s drive away.
Clandeboye Way
The Clandeboye Way is a walking trail from Helen’s Bay railway station to Whitespots Country Park. It crosses through woodland, old laneways and farm tracks. Of historical interest is Helen's Tower and the old Leadmines at Whitespots Country Park.
| Distance from hotel | 3.2 miles / 7 minute drive from hotel |
|---|---|
| Walking distance | 8 miles |
| Terrain | Laneways, tracks, woodland paths. Please note: this walk involves crossing the main Bangor to Belfast dual carriageway. |
| Points of interest | Helen’s Tower, Leadmines |
Photography by James Huish
Cairn Wood
Cairn Wood is a well-marked forest walk which offers incredible views of Clandeboye Estate, Bangor, the coast of Antrim and even Scotland on a clear day. If you’re lucky you might spot a red squirrel!
| Distance from hotel | 1.7 miles / 3 minute drive |
|---|---|
| Walking distance | 2 miles |
| Terrain | Easy walking on forest tracks |
| Points of interest | Views of Bangor and beyond |
Coastal Walk
A beautiful walk through the meadow and along the coastal path of Crawfordsburn and Helen’s Bay beaches. Pass the wartime fort at Grey Point and finish at Sea Park.
View Map| Distance from hotel | 3.1 miles / 7 minute drive |
|---|---|
| Walking distance | 1.9 miles (one way) |
| Terrain | Gravel and tarmac paths |
| Points of interest | Crawfordsburn Beach, Helens Bay Beach, and Grey Point Fort |
Glen Walk
A woodland and riverside walk with views of the incredible Lanyon’s Viaduct.
View Map| Distance from hotel | 3.1 miles / 7 minute drive |
|---|---|
| Walking distance | 1.5 miles |
| Terrain | Gently undulating off road paths |
| Points of interest | Lanyon’s Viaduct |
Meadow Walk
A gentle walk through the wildflower meadow, areas of mature woodland, and a coastal stretch.
View Map| Distance from hotel | 3.1 miles / 7 minute drive |
|---|---|
| Walking distance | 2 miles |
| Terrain | Off road paths |
| Points of interest | Wildflower meadow |
Scrabo Hill
This walk takes the summit of Scrabo hill and the famous Scrabo Tower providing stunning views over Strangford Lough and North Down.
| Distance from hotel | 4.3 miles / 10 minute drive |
|---|---|
| Walking distance | 2.3 miles |
| Terrain | Off road paths, steep |
| Points of interest | Scrabo Tower |
Mount Stewart
Mount Stewart is a National Trust property boasting wonderfully landscaped gardens and a neo-classical house. Take a picturesque lake walk or a walk throughout the mature woodlands. Please note that National Trust entrance pricing applies for these walks.
Lake Walk
A beautiful walk around the lake and world-famous gardens at Mount Stewart.
View Map| Distance from hotel | 8.4 miles / 15 minute drive |
|---|---|
| Walking distance | 2.3 miles |
| Terrain | Level access lake and gardens |
| Points of interest | Mount Stewart House |
Red Trail
A woodland and farmland walk in the Mount Stewart Estate. If you’re lucky you may spot a red squirrel.
View Map| Distance from hotel | 8.4 miles / 15 minute drive |
|---|---|
| Walking distance | 1.4 miles |
| Terrain | Woodland floor and gravel |
| Points of interest | Temple of the Winds |
Killynether Wood
The walk at Killynether Wood is a steady climb on woodland paths to a beautiful viewpoint before a descent through the mature woodland to finish.
View Map
| Distance from hotel | 5.3 miles / 12 minute drive |
|---|---|
| Walking distance | 1.5 miles |
| Terrain | Off road paths |
| Points of interest | Panoramic views of Strangford Lough |
