A scenic route just minutes from the city centre offers sea views, charming towns and plenty of places to stop along the way
18:57, 03 May 2026
While the coastal path is a popular way to take in the sea views, some people prefer walking on the rocky shoreline(Image: Rob Currell)
A stunning coastal walk just a stones throw from Belfast city centre has quickly become one of my favourite discoveries since moving to Northern Ireland.
The North Down Coastal Path traverses the shoreline of Belfast Lough offering a scenic and accessible route for walkers of all abilities. Whether you are seeking a short stroll or a full day’s hike, it is easy to see why this path is so popular with many people.
Running for around 25km, the route begins at Holywood Esplanade and winds its way east to Orlock Point. Along the way, it passes through picturesque towns and villages including Cultra, Helen’s Bay, Bangor and Groomsport.
What to expect?
When I visited on a sunny day last week, the path was busy but never overcrowded thanks to the distance it covers. There was a real mix of people out enjoying it including families and dog walkers, to joggers and groups of friends sitting on the beaches making the most of the good weather.
The path itself is well-maintained with clear signage, benches, and information boards dotted along the route. It also takes you through some of Northern Ireland’s most desirable postcodes, with stunning homes overlooking the coastline.
Having walked well-known routes across the world from Vancouver’s Seawall to the Sydney Harbour Foreshore, I was surprised at how this local option compares. It might not have the same global recognition but in terms of scenery, it certainly holds its own.
Planning your journey
If you are not familiar with the area, it is worth planning your trip in advance. Families in particular may want to identify several exit points along the route, especially if little legs get tired.
Train stations close to the path include Holywood Railway Station, Helen’s Bay Railway Station, Cultra Railway Station and Bangor Railway Station. This makes it easy to hop on and off as needed throughout the day.
If you are bringing your dog, well-behaved pets are allowed on trains after 9.30am, unless they are service animals which area allowed on at any time. Packing layers is also a good idea, as coastal winds can be unpredictable even on warmer days.
Landmarks along the way
There is plenty to see beyond the views alone. Highlights include the distinctive club house at the Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club, The Ulster Folk Museum and the historic Grey Point Fort. These stops can easily add time to your journey, so it is worth deciding in advance whether you want to explore them full or save them for another visit.
Food, drink and facilities
There are plenty of places to stop for a bite to eat along the way. In Holywood, The Dirty Duck Alehouse offers sea views and a dog-friendly beer garden, while Noble is known for its locally sourced menu.
Within Crawfordsburn Country Park, Woodlands Cafe provides a scneic stop with views over the water.
Further along the route, the Jamaica Inn is a popular choice, while the Cottage Kitchen is well-known for its breakfasts.
Public toilets are available at several points along the path including Seapark, Bangor South Pier, and Harbour Road in Groomsport, though it is worth checking locations in advance.
Whether you are a life-long local or a newcomer like me, the North Down Coastal Path one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to get outdoors as a way to take in the beauty of Northern Ireland’s coastline.
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