Antrim Hills Way

The Antrim Hills Way is a stunning 22-mile walking trail crossing some of the most scenic upland areas in the Antrim Coast and Glens. It starts in the historic village of Glenarm, crosses Black Hill (381m), Scawt Hill (378m) and along Sallagh Braes, a semi-circular basalt escarpment. The highest point on the route is Agnew’s Hill (474m) from where almost the entire Antrim Hills Way is visible. The trail continues over fields and, often wet, moorland to end at the solitary volcanic plug of Slemish Mountain. Traditionally it was on the slopes of Slemish that St Patrick, the Patron Saint of Ireland, tended livestock during his six years of slavery at the turn of the fifth century. On St Patrick’s Day (17 March) large crowds hike to the top of the mountain as a pilgrimage.

The route is in place through permission of landowners. It is mostly off-road through fields which are usually grazed by sheep or cows. For safety reasons dogs are not allowed even if on a lead due to grazing livestock. Bulls can be present at certain times of the year. Hills are exposed and mostly covered in heather or tussocky grasses. Good footwear and advance preparation are strongly advised.

Please note – Section 5 is extremely wet – gaiters/ waterproof trousers and footwear are essential if you want to remain dry.

The Antrim Hills way is marked by posts and markers. Some are more difficult to spot than others after being weathered over the years.

Full information about the walk is available from Walk NI, including toilet facilities and were you can stop for refreshments along the route : Antrim Hills Way – WalkNI https://walkni.com/walks/antrim-hills-way/

Photos by: Colin Wright & Joe Crawford