While much attention is given to the general walk at Cave Hill, the Quarry walk often goes unnoticed. Cave Hill is famous for its dramatic cliff faces, while also home to ravens, buzzards, and peregrines. On its western side, you'll find an old limestone quarry open to the public. The Quarry trail is a 1km singletrack trail and takes about seven minutes to complete, offering a quick but scenic escape into natureplaceholder image
While much attention is given to the general walk at Cave Hill, the Quarry walk often goes unnoticed. Cave Hill is famous for its dramatic cliff faces, while also home to ravens, buzzards, and peregrines. On its western side, you'll find an old limestone quarry open to the public. The Quarry trail is a 1km singletrack trail and takes about seven minutes to complete, offering a quick but scenic escape into nature

10 beautiful hidden walks in Belfast where you will be surrounded by nature

By Tyree Patton
Published 5th Apr 2025, 06:00 GMT

Belfast is known for its vibrant urban life, but the city also offers plenty of walking trails which are worth discovering.

While most visitors flock to popular routes, there are lesser-known walks that provide a peaceful retreat into nature, away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Whether you're a local looking for a new spot or a visitor seeking a peaceful adventure, these walks offer a unique way to experience the city's natural beauty.

Each location has its own charm, offering something special for nature lovers and explorers alike.

Here are some of Belfast’s lesser-known walks for those looking to reconnect with nature.

Carnmoney Hill offers a green retreat in an urban setting, which is also rich in history and wildlife. Walkers can choose from a gentle stroll around the base, a 30-minute woodland walk, or a hilltop route that takes over an hour. While there are some steep inclines, the reward is breathtaking views over Belfast Lough and the surrounding countryside.

5. Carnmoney Hill Nature Reserve

Carnmoney Hill offers a green retreat in an urban setting, which is also rich in history and wildlife. Walkers can choose from a gentle stroll around the base, a 30-minute woodland walk, or a hilltop route that takes over an hour. While there are some steep inclines, the reward is breathtaking views over Belfast Lough and the surrounding countryside. Photo: Discover NI website

If you fancy a pleasant afternoon stroll, then Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park in Belfast is the place to go. This award-winning green space on the outskirts of the city offers a variety of attractions, including walking trails, forests, a café, playground, and formal gardens like the International Rose Garden. The 1.1-mile loop trail is moderately easy, with some steps along the way, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll. Starting from the upper car park off Upper Malone Road, the trail passes through highlights such as the Japanese Garden, Golden Crown Fountain, Wilmont House, Walled Garden, and Azalea Walk, before ending near a children's play area, providing an added motivation for reluctant young walkers. With a duration of 20-30 minutes, it's an ideal spot for those seeking a relaxing walk in Belfast.

6. The Garden Trail at Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park

If you fancy a pleasant afternoon stroll, then Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park in Belfast is the place to go. This award-winning green space on the outskirts of the city offers a variety of attractions, including walking trails, forests, a café, playground, and formal gardens like the International Rose Garden. The 1.1-mile loop trail is moderately easy, with some steps along the way, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll. Starting from the upper car park off Upper Malone Road, the trail passes through highlights such as the Japanese Garden, Golden Crown Fountain, Wilmont House, Walled Garden, and Azalea Walk, before ending near a children's play area, providing an added motivation for reluctant young walkers. With a duration of 20-30 minutes, it's an ideal spot for those seeking a relaxing walk in Belfast. Photo: Visit Belfast website

Belvoir Park Forest offers a working forest experience within the city, conveniently located near Belfast’s Outer Ring Road. With stunning woodland trails and views of the River Lagan which run right through the forest, it’s a nature lover's dream. Starting and ending at the Belvoir Park Forest car park, providing information and a viewpoint, you can choose from a variety of walks based on length and difficulty. The blue Arboretum Path offers an easy 0.6-mile route, while the Lagan Trail presents a more challenging 1.25-mile hike. For a moderate challenge, the Meadows Trail spans two miles with steps, gorges, and paths. The duration of your walk varies depending on your chosen trail, making it a flexible option for all levels of walkers.

7. Belvoir Park Forest

Belvoir Park Forest offers a working forest experience within the city, conveniently located near Belfast’s Outer Ring Road. With stunning woodland trails and views of the River Lagan which run right through the forest, it’s a nature lover's dream. Starting and ending at the Belvoir Park Forest car park, providing information and a viewpoint, you can choose from a variety of walks based on length and difficulty. The blue Arboretum Path offers an easy 0.6-mile route, while the Lagan Trail presents a more challenging 1.25-mile hike. For a moderate challenge, the Meadows Trail spans two miles with steps, gorges, and paths. The duration of your walk varies depending on your chosen trail, making it a flexible option for all levels of walkers. Photo: Discover NI website

Redburn Country Park, located just off the A2 near Holywood, offers a 3.9-mile loop walk with stunning views over Belfast Lough and the South Antrim Hills. The park provides a range of country walks, all starting from the car park, catering to both serious hikers and those looking for a leisurely stroll. The terrain can be moderate or challenging, with hilly or grassy paths that take at least an hour to complete. Additionally, the park features bridle paths for horse riders, making it a versatile destination for all outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking a scenic walk or a more demanding hike, there’s something for everyone.

8. Redburn Country Park

Redburn Country Park, located just off the A2 near Holywood, offers a 3.9-mile loop walk with stunning views over Belfast Lough and the South Antrim Hills. The park provides a range of country walks, all starting from the car park, catering to both serious hikers and those looking for a leisurely stroll. The terrain can be moderate or challenging, with hilly or grassy paths that take at least an hour to complete. Additionally, the park features bridle paths for horse riders, making it a versatile destination for all outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking a scenic walk or a more demanding hike, there’s something for everyone. Photo: Discover NI website

Previous
2 / 3
Next Page
Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice