A family kayaking on the shores of Strangford Lough, County Down. An adult and two children are in a kayak on the water, while other family members stand on the shore. — Kayaking on the shores of Strangford Lough | © National Trust Images/John Miller

Outdoor activities in Northern Ireland

Get active this summer with outdoor activities at a National Trust place near you in Northern Ireland.

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Outdoor activities at Crom

Enjoy a boat trip on Lough Erne, or experience the best coarse fishing in Northern Ireland. Stop off at an island or two, and see the estate from the vantage point of the water. Head out on the lake with Blue Green Yonder as you experience paddle boarding and kayaking.

Two young visitors running out of the water holding bodyboards at Portstewart Strand, with the surf visible in the background

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Outdoor activities at Portstewart Strand

Spend the day on one of Northern Ireland’s finest beaches. Venture out for a walk along the strand, wander through the 6,000-year-old dunes and spot seasonal wildlife.

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Outdoor activities at Strangford Lough

Grab your kit and explore the largest sea lough in the British Isles. Soak up unique views, spot marine wildlife and see the many islands dotted along this part of the coast.

Walkers ascending a path towards Slieve Donard in the Mourne Mountains, County Down

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Outdoor activities in The Mournes

Explore the highest, most dramatic mountain range in Northern Ireland. Head out for a walk, enjoy views of the valleys, lakes & rivers & spot seasonal wildlife.

Visitors walking the Ridge Trail at Divis and the Black Mountain

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Outdoor activities at Divis and the Black Mountain

Divis and the Black Mountain offers a spectacular viewpoint for walkers seeking panoramic views over Belfast and beyond. Take a look at what things to discover on your visit.

Visitors walking through the wooded trails at Florence Court, County Fermanagh

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Outdoor activities at Florence Court

Take in sweeping vistas and elevated views on a walk through the estate, or wander through native woodland to spot historic features and the original Irish Yew tree.

Man and boy taking a selfie on the rope bridge at Carrick a Rede in July

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Things to see and do at Carrick-a-Rede

Take on the challenge of the famous 200-year old rope bridge, spot soaring seabirds and basking sharks, and see the stars shine like never before.

A family of four cycling along the loughside trail at Castle Ward, County Down

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Multi-use trails at Castle Ward

Whether you’re walking, in a wheelchair, cycling or horse riding, explore the 21 miles of trails on the Castle Ward estate and discover woodland, meadows and loughside views.

A horse rider at Ashridge Estate, Hertfordshire in spring

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Castle Ward Hoof Trail

The Hoof Trail is a 7.5-mile route through woodland and along the shore of Strangford Lough with views of Audley's Castle and the Castle Ward Demesne.

Visitors stopping to enjoy the view of Srtangford Lough from Mount Stewart, County Down

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Exploring the estate at Mount Stewart

Pull on your walking boots, choose your route and head out for a walk on the Mount Stewart estate. Spot seasonal wildlife as you go, or run wild in the natural play area.

A family walking to the Causeway stones, with a young girl on her dad's shoulders

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Things to do at Giant's Causeway

Explore Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk on the world-famous stones, see the basalt columns & soak up dramatic views of the rugged coastline