County Armagh Trail Named UK’s Must-Visit Hidden Gem
Experts at Millets name County Armagh’s Slieve Gullion Loop as one of the UK’s must-visit hidden gems.
The outdoor experts analysed hiking routes with less than 1,000 reviews and revealed the top three trails
1 – Newborough Beach and Ynys Llanddwyn, with an overall score of 9.75/10
Newborough Beach and Ynys Llanddwyn Wales has been named the UK’s best hidden gem hike you can do with your four-legged friend. The walk is rated as easy, making it accessible for most dogs and owners of all walking abilities. The beach also received an average user rating of 4.8/5 on AllTrails. The route winds through Newborough Forest first, with plenty of space for dogs to roam off the lead, before opening out onto a stunning beach with views across to the mountains of Eryri. The finale is Ynys Llanddwyn – a tidal island with a ruined church and old lighthouse that feels genuinely tucked away from the world.
2 – Giant’s Gate and Causeway Coast Circular, follows in second with a score of 8.09/10
Giant’s Gate and Causeway Coast Circular in Northern Ireland is the second-best hidden gem hike in the UK. The Giant’s Causeway is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the world, featuring 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity that jut out into the Atlantic. But this longer circular route takes you well beyond the famous rocks and out along a rugged, dramatic coastline that most tourists never see. Walkers report it’s a lovely walk for dogs, with plenty to sniff and explore along the way.
2. Tollymore Forest and Drinns Circular and Capel Curig Circular also share second place.
Tollymore Forest, Northern Ireland, has been used as a filming location for the Game of Thrones series. And once you’re among the ancient trees, winding alongside the River Shimna and crossing old stone bridges, it’s not hard to see why a fantasy series came calling. If you bring your dog, make sure they have the stamina (and enough water) for this 8.8-mile route before you set off.
