Belvoir Park Forest

Belvoir Park forest is a working forest within a city. It is idealy placed to offer city dwellers a vibrant forest teaming with wildlife and many fine tree specimens within easy reach of Belfast's outer ring.

The forest was opened in 1961 and covers 75 hectares along the south bank of the River Lagan.

There are a number of historic sites to be found within the forest, for example the Norman motte dates back to the 12th century and the ruined graveyard was recorded in 14th century documents. The estate itself was enclosed by the Hill's, a plantation family, around the 1740's. They built a house where the car park is now and the existing buildings, which date from the same era, were farm buildings belonging to the estate. The Ice House, built into the side of the motte also dates from this time. These features are ideal for educational pursuits. The forest has a fine exhibition, with full disabled access and Guides are available for schools and organised groups.

From Belfast: Take the motorway M1 to junction 2. Turn left onto Stockmans Lane under bridge straight ahead on Balmoral Avenue to its junction with Malone Road. Turn right for approximately 0.5 mile to roundabout at House of Sport. Keep left for approximately 1 mile. Turn left at traffic lights at Old Milltown Road signposted Belvoir Park Forest.