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As a chill settles over Northern Ireland, a new study has revealed the country’s most scenic winter walks.
When winter sets in, it’s tempting to stay indoors with a blanket and a hot drink. But the colder months bring their own magic. Frosted trees, snow-covered hills, and icy lochs transform familiar landscapes into breathtaking scenes. As well as being impressive to look at, these vistas provide the perfect setting for a winter stroll and a captivating backdrop for stunning photos.
A new study, conducted by CEWE, Europe's leading photo printing company, identified the most scenic winter walks across the UK based on desk research and Google review data.
The locations were ranked using Google reviews, star ratings, number of reviews and winter-related keywords to highlight the most scenic routes.
The Giant's Causeway, Co Antrim
In Northern Ireland, The Giant’s Causeway was named the best winter walk, with 561 winter focused reviews.
Located in Bushmills in Co Antrim, this attraction has a 4.7 star rating, 367,000 Instagram hashtags, 14,432 TikTok views and 27,938 reviews.
Formed 60 million years ago, this UNESCO world heritage site offers incredible views of Dunluce Castle, Whiterocks beach, and has also featured as backdrop in various films, including "Dracula Untold."
Carrick-a-Rede, Co Antrim
Carrick-a-Rede takes the second-place spot with 309 winter-centric reviews.
The bridge, which is over 250 years old and 100 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, is one of Northern Ireland’s most famous attractions. It offers unrivalled coastal views as well as Rathlin Island and Scotland across the sea.
Tollymore Forest Park, Co Down
Tollymore Forest Park ranks in third with 227 reviews.
Located at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, this forest features rivers, bridges, grottos, and snow-speckled trees. Rocky outcrops and panoramic views provide plenty of spots to take in the crisp winter air.
Ballintoy Harbour, Co Antrim
Ballintoy Harbour takes fourth place with 178 reviews.
Located in Co Antrim, this raised beach offers a painter’s paradise with sea stacks, rocky islands, pools, nestling harbour and sandy beach walks. It’s also famous for being used as the Iron Islands location in "Game of Thrones."
Antrim Castle Gardens, Co Antrim
Antrim Castle Gardens rounds out the top five with 152 winter-related reviews.
This hidden gem is a 400-year-old garden complex featuring elements from different historical periods. Highlights include the splendid 17th-century Anglo-Dutch style canals, a 12th-century motte, and the Large Parterre Garden.
At Christmas, it becomes a magical winter escape, with twinkling lights bringing the grounds to life.
The list of the top ten most scenic winter walks in Northern Ireland is rounded out with The Dark Hedges in Co Antrim, Botanic Gardens, Silent Valley Mountain Park in Co Down, Dunluce Castle, and Belfast Castle.
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From snowy coastlines to icy waterfalls, these walks offer the perfect chance to explore and capture winter landscapes.
Petra Felgen, Managing Director of CEWE UK, said: “As days grow darker and nights lengthen, it can be tempting to stay tucked away indoors, but Northern Ireland is full of breathtaking scenery waiting to be discovered.
“Whether it’s a countryside stroll or a wander through a magical forest, there’s plenty to explore across the country. These beautiful settings also provide the ideal backdrop for photographing your adventures and keeping lasting mementos. We hope our research highlights both well-known rambles and hidden gem trails, perfect for everyone – whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a novice.”
Top 10 Winter Walks in Northern Ireland:
- The Giant's Causeway, Co Antrim
- Carrick-a-Rede, Co Antrim
- Tollymore Forest Park, Co Down
- Ballintoy Harbour , Co Antrim
- Antrim Castle Gardens, Co Antrim
- The Dark Hedges, Co Antrim
- Botanic Gardens, Belfast, Co Antrim
- Silent Valley Mountain Park, Co Down
- Dunluce Castle, Co Antrim
- Belfast Castle, Co Antrim
For the complete study, click here.