11k Run Mid and East Antrim: Enchanting Glenarm Forest Trails

Route Overview & Local Insights

Tucked away in the scenic glens of Mid and East Antrim, this 10.8km loop offers a refreshing blend of paved sections and rugged forest floors. With a steady ascent of 153m, runners will find the terrain moderately challenging but rewarding, as the trail winds through lush canopy cover and alongside the babbling Glenarm River. The mix of surfaces makes it an ideal training ground for those looking to transition from road to trail running, offering enough elevation to test your lungs without being overly technical. Expect stunning woodland vistas and a peaceful atmosphere that makes the double-digit mileage fly by.

Glenarm is one of Northern Ireland’s oldest walled towns, and running through its forest feels like stepping into a piece of living history. The forest was once part of the private demesne of Glenarm Castle, the ancestral home of the Earls of Antrim since the 17th century. As you navigate the loop, keep an eye out for the red squirrels that have found a sanctuary here and the late-spring bluebells that carpet the woodland floor. After finishing your run, head into the village to appreciate the Georgian architecture or grab a coffee near the harbour where the river meets the Irish Sea.