Walk Northern Ireland - Mountaineering Ireland

Right: Field of Bluebells
Below: Crawfordsburn
Country Park
Crawfordsburn
Country Park
Crawfordsburn Country Park lies
on the southern shore of Belfast
Lough. Situated just
15km from the heart
of Belfast city, the
park could be a
million miles away
in terms the habitat
within its borders.
There are ponds,
woodlands,
wildflower meadows,
a beautiful waterfall
and a 3.5km stretch
of rugged coastline
that includes two of
the best beaches in
North Down.
Three walking
trails explore
different areas of the park, though
the 5.5km coastal path is a
favourite with most visitors. This
circuit joins part of the North
Down Coastal Path, a longer route
that traces the coastline between
Hollywood and Groomsport. A
variety of marine life can be seen
along the shore, with seals and
seabirds most prominent.
The rocky headland of Grey
Point provides a wonderful lookout
from which to appreciate the
coastal scenery. It’s no surprise that
such a prime vantage point was
chosen as the site for the lough’s
war defences. Grey Point Fort was
operational throughout both world
wars, with two six-inch guns
trained over the water to prevent
unwanted vessels from reaching
Belfast. The fort lies alongside the
coastal path and is well worth a
visit.
Near the fort you’ll also find
Horse Rock, an intriguing
formation of pillow lava that
erupted from underwater volcanoes
around 450 million years ago. An
enclave of broadleaf woodland then
brings you to the beautiful sandy
beach at Helen’s Bay, a popular
bathing spot in summer months.
Post-walk refreshments are available
at the Countryside Centre.
…just 15km
from the heart
of Belfast city,
the park could
be a million
miles away…
Crawfordsburn Country Park F3
Starting Point: Crawfordsburn
Countryside Centre
Distance: Up to 5km
Maps & Books: Available at
centre. OSNI sheet: 15
Facilities: Parking/café:
Countryside Centre
walk… Country Parks
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