Fitting in 10,000 steps can feel impossible sometimes, especially when you’re in vacation mode and exploring a new city. Belfast offers a variety of scenic walking trails that allow you to explore the city’s natural beauty while getting in your daily exercise.
There are many great options, from challenging hikes with amazing views to relaxed strolls through beautiful gardens. Whether you’re into intense hikes or just want to take a leisurely walk, there’s something for everyone.
So, put on your walking shoes and explore the hidden gems that make Belfast a perfect place for walking.
1. The Divis Summit Trail
Address: Divis Road, Hannahstown, BT17 0NG
Time to complete: 60 to 90 minutes
Distance: 3 miles
Difficulty level: Difficult
The Divis Summit Trail is a 3-mile looped walk that takes you up the slopes of Divis Mountain, the highest peak in the Belfast Hills. The well-maintained trail offers stunning panoramic views of Belfast City, Strangford Lough, and the Mourne Mountains.
One of the unique things about the Divis Summit Trail is that it is a specifically designed loop walk. The trail is also made of stone pitching, which helps prevent erosion and makes walking easier, especially in wet weather.
Pro tip:
The trail can be quite steep and uneven in some places, so it is important to wear sturdy footwear that provides good traction. There is no water on the trail, so be sure to bring plenty of water, especially on a hot day.
2. Cave Hill
Address: Antrim Rd, Belfast BT5 5GR, United Kingdom
Time to complete: 90 minutes to 2.5 hours
Distance: 4.5 miles
Difficulty level: Difficult
Cave Hill Country Park is a crown jewel offering a variety of walking experiences. Its distinctive silhouette, nicknamed “Napoleon’s Nose” for its resemblance to the French emperor’s profile, is a beloved Belfast landmark.
Legend tells of mythical creatures like the “Clatty Cat,” a fearsome feline who is said to roam the caves. The park also holds historical significance, with remnants of forts dating back to the 18th century built to defend Belfast.
Pro tip:
Take a moment at the summit to soak in the panoramic views. Capture the iconic image of Belfast with “Napoleon’s Nose” in the foreground – a perfect photo opportunity and a lasting memory of your visit to Cave Hill Country Park.
3. Carnmoney Hill
Address: Newtownabbey BT36 6EQ, United Kingdom
Time to complete: 30 to 75 minutes
Distance: 3 miles
Difficulty level: Moderate
Carnmoney Hill has a variety of experiences within a small area. The red route offers an easy 15-minute walk around a scenic pond, and the yellow route provides a 45-minute walk through ancient woodland to a viewpoint overlooking Belfast Lough.
On the other hand, the blue route, the most challenging option, is a two-hour walk that takes you to the top of the hill, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Belfast city, Belfast Lough, the Mourne Mountains, Slemish Mountain, and the Antrim Coast.
Pro tip:
Wear sturdy shoes, especially if you plan to tackle the blue route. The trails can be muddy and uneven in some places.
4. Giant’s Ring Trail
Address: Belfast BT8 8LE, United Kingdom
Time to complete: 1 hour
Distance: 3 miles
Difficulty level: Difficult
The Giant’s Ring Trail takes you along the picturesque River Lagan through peaceful woodlands and farmlands, culminating at the fascinating Giant’s Ring, a Neolithic monument predating the Egyptian pyramids.
It was built around 2700 BC during the Neolithic period, making it an incredible feat of engineering. In the center of the enclosure lies a passage tomb, a burial chamber of large upright stones, and a massive capstone.
Pro tip:
The terrain is mostly flat and easy to navigate, making it suitable for walkers of all abilities. As you walk, look for spawning salmon or sea trout in the River Lagan, a testament to the area’s healthy ecosystem.
5. The Garden Trail at Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park
Address: Belfast BT17 9LA, United Kingdom
Time to complete: 20 to 30 minutes
Distance: 1.1 miles
Difficulty level: Moderate
Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park offer a tranquil escape with the Garden Trail, a delightful 1.1-mile loop perfect for a stroll. One of the highlights is the Japanese Garden, a serene space with koi carp gliding through a pond and manicured miniature trees.
You’ll also encounter the grand Wilmont House, the City of Belfast International Rose Garden, the Golden Crown Fountain, and the Azalea Walk, a vibrant explosion of color in spring. Watch for the children’s playground, a perfect pitstop for kids.
Pro tip:
The park can get busy, especially on sunny days. Consider an early morning visit to truly appreciate the Garden Trail’s peacefulness.
6. Creagagh Glen and Lisnabreeny
Address: A55 Upper Knockbreda Rd, Belfast BT6 9QL, United Kingdom
Time to complete: 1 hour
Distance: 1.5 miles
Difficulty level: Moderate
Creagagh Glen provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the Belfast city center. The wooded path winds its way alongside a stream, with plenty of spots to sit and soak in the sights and sounds of nature.
During World War II, it was used as a temporary graveyard for American service members who died while stationed in Northern Ireland. A memorial plaque commemorates them today.
Pro tip:
At the top of the glen, you’ll find Lisnabreeny House, a historic building once the home of the poet Nesca Robb. Wear sturdy shoes as the path can be uneven in some places, especially after rain.
7. Colin Glen Forest Park
Address: HXC8+HH, Belfast BT17 0BU, United Kingdom
Time to complete: 75 to 90 minutes
Distance: 4 miles
Difficulty level: Moderate
Colin Glen Forest Park is a 200-acre wonderland that uniquely blends natural beauty and thrilling activities. One of Colin Glen’s distinctive features is the Gruffalo Trail, a delightful childhood experience based on the popular children’s book.
It’s also an adrenaline junkie’s paradise. You can ride on Ireland’s first Alpine Coaster, the Black Bull Run, soar above the trees on the 250-meter Forest Flyover zipline, or embark on an epic adventure on the River Rapid, Ireland’s longest zipline.
Pro tip:
The River Entrance is closest to Belfast and has the Gruffalo Trail and SkyTrek, while the Mountain Entrance boasts the longest zipline and the Alpine Coaster. Choose the entrance that best suits your interests.
8. Belvoir Park Forest
Address: Belvoir Dr, Belfast BT8 7QT, United Kingdom
Time to complete: 1 hour
Distance: 2 miles
Difficulty level: Easy
Opened in 1961, Belvoir Park Forest is a 75-hectare working forest managed by the Forest Service. Here, you can explore the remains of a 12th-century Norman motte, an earthen mound built for defensive purposes.
Keep your eyes peeled for red squirrels. This is one of the few places in Belfast where you can easily spot them. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds has headquarters here, a testament to the park’s ecological importance.
Pro tip:
The forest connects to the Lagan Towpath, a scenic path alongside the river. Extend your walk and enjoy a delightful combination of woodland and riverside exploration.
9. Redburn Country Park
Address: Old Holywood Rd, Belfast BT4 2HL, United Kingdom
Time to complete: 1 hour
Distance: 3.9 miles
Difficulty level: Moderate
Redburn Country Park offers a refreshing escape from the city bustle. The most popular route, the Redburn Country Park Circular Walk, is a moderately challenging 2.9-mile loop that takes roughly 1.5 hours to complete.
The park boasts a winding trail network that weaves through a lush forested landscape. These paths range from gentle inclines to steeper sections, rewarding hikers with views of Belfast Lough, the County Antrim coastline, and even Carrickfergus.
Pro tip:
While the trail is relatively short, wear sturdy shoes with good grip, and don’t underestimate the inclines! They’ll provide a good workout and make the scenic overlooks at the summit even more satisfying.
10. Lagan Valley Regional Park
Address: 3 Lock Keepers Ln, Belfast BT8 7XT, United Kingdom
Time to complete: 3 hours
Distance: 8 miles
Difficulty level: Easy
Lagan Valley Regional Park is a sprawling urban oasis that stretches 22 miles (35 kilometers) along the River Lagan from Belfast to Lisburn. You can escape the city bustle and explore nature trails, historical sites, and tranquil waterways here.
Walkers can explore the scenic Lagan Towpath, a flat, off-road trail that winds along the riverbank, while cyclists can enjoy a more challenging route on the cycle paths. For water enthusiasts, the Lagan is a kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding haven.
Pro tip:
Be sure to stop by the Giant’s Ring, a Neolithic monument that predates the Egyptian pyramids. This impressive earthwork is a fascinating reminder of Belfast’s ancient past.