Walking & Hiking in Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland offers some of the UK's most spectacular yet undiscovered walking and hiking, where dramatic coastal scenery meets warm Irish hospitality. This captivating corner of the British Isles rewards both gentle walkers and keen hikers with landscapes steeped in myth, legend, and natural wonder – from the iconic hexagonal columns of the Giant's Causeway to the verdant beauty of the Nine Glens of Antrim.
The Nine Glens of Antrim provide magnificent walking and hiking through a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where ancient valleys meet the stunning Antrim coastline. Walk in the footsteps of the legendary giant Finn McCool at the Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland's only UNESCO World Heritage site, and challenge your head for heights at the famous Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, spanning the sea over a 23-metre deep chasm. Along the way, wonderful vantage points reveal spectacular views across the Irish Sea, with Scotland's coastline visible on clear days.
Why Book a Walking Holiday to Northern Ireland?
Iconic natural wonders
Northern Ireland's hiking trails lead you to some of Europe's most extraordinary geological formations. The Giant's Causeway, with its 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, creates an otherworldly landscape that has inspired legends for centuries. Our guided walking holidays ensure you experience these wonders whilst learning the fascinating stories and science behind their formation.
The magnificent Nine Glens of Antrim
The Nine Glens of Antrim offer diverse walking through landscapes that range from dramatic coastal cliffs to tranquil forest parks. Each glen possesses its own distinct character, from Glenariff – often called the "Queen of the Glens" – to the wild beauty of Glenaan. These valleys provide wonderfully varied Northern Ireland walking trails that showcase the region's natural beauty at its finest.
Genuine Irish welcome
Take the road less travelled and you can be sure of a very warm Irish welcome. Northern Ireland's friendly locals, charming villages, and vibrant culture enhance every walking holiday. After a day exploring the trails, enjoy traditional hospitality in cosy pubs, sample local cuisine, and experience the storytelling tradition that makes Ireland so special.
Rich heritage and culture
Beyond the natural beauty, Northern Ireland's walking holidays offer fascinating insights into its complex history. From ancient Celtic sites to medieval castles perched on clifftops, every walk reveals layers of heritage. Our expert leaders bring these stories to life, ensuring you understand the cultural context that makes these landscapes so compelling.