Slemish
Walking Tour 3
The distinctive shape of Slemish Mountain makes it a landmark for many miles. Enjoy a circular walk over Slemish and appreciate the summit views of the Antrim and Scottish coasts.
Distance 1.5 km / 0.9 miles
Duration 1 hour
Starting Point Slemish car park
Ascent 87 metres
Facilities Picnic and toilet facilities at Slemish car park
The whole of the Braid valley is associated with Ireland’s Patron Saint, Patrick. The main focus of interest is Slemish mountain (438 metres) where the boy slave is said to have herded swine for his master Miluic in the 5th Century.
For centuries this solitary extinct volcano has been a place of pilgrimage on St. Patrick’s Day (17th March). It can be seen across the plateau for a great distance. To get to it, go first to Broughshane, take the B54 (signposted Ballyclare and Slemish) turn left after 0.9 miles, turn right after 2.9 miles (signposted), right again after 0.4 miles. Here the road runs up between dry stone walls to Slemish car park, with a picnic site and toilets adjacent.
Wild flowers, some rare, grow on the grassy slopes. From the top (a steep and rocky climb of 180m), look north to the ruins of Skerry Church on a hilltop where Miluic’s fort (rath) once stood. This was the ancient burying place of the O’Neill’s of Clandeboye.