Snowy hilltops and frost expected to continue this weekend
Just when we all thought summer was here early 🤣
We might have blue skies and sunshine, but it’s certainly not warm!
Heading into the weekend, colder and more unsettled weather continues to takeover much of Northern Ireland.
A ‘cold Arctic maritime airmass’ is pushing south across most of the UK and is bringing with it unsettled conditions and morning frosts.
Met Office Chief Meteorologist Steve Ramsdale said, “As cold air continues to be drawn down from the north there is the potential for wintry showers to affect almost any area of the UK.
“Although there’s unlikely to be widespread accumulations of snow there is a risk of some disruption in eastern and southeastern areas.
“The best of any clear and sunny spells through the rest of this week are likely to be in the south and west of the UK, but it will definitely feel colder than it has over the last week or so.”
Northern Ireland's weekend weather forecast:
Today: A frosty but largely sunny start but cloud increasing towards midday. Outbreaks of rain and hill snow spreading south through the afternoon. Freshening northwesterly winds. Maximum temperature 9 °C
Tonight: Outbreaks of rain through the evening and overnight in the west. A few showers in the east in the evening, but turning dry here overnight. Minimum temperature -2 °C
Saturday: Often cloudy, but some bright or sunny spells, the best chance of these late afternoon. Likely to be dry in the east, but showers in the west in the morning. Maximum temperature 10 °C
Outlook for Sunday to Tuesday: Mostly dry but cloudy Sunday, but turning milder from later Sunday with outbreaks of rain overnight and through Monday and Tuesday, most persistent in the west
Weekend Inspiration 👇
Why not pack a picnic and enjoy check out some of our favourite spring walks.
Slieve Donard
We'll start with the toughest first, at 850m Northern Ireland's highest peak is definitely not for the faint-hearted. Set aside 3.5-6 hours to complete.
There are two routes up, via Donard Car Park and Bloody Bridge.
For the most popular route (Donard Car Park), follow the Glen River uphill through the forest.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on leads.
Slieve Bearnagh
Once you've conquered Slieve Donard, why not out some of the smaller peaks in a day or for more 700m+ challenging climbs head for Slieve Binnian, Slieve Commedagh or Slieve Bearnagh.
Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail
The route meanders through one of the largest expanses of blanket bog in Northern Ireland, traversing over tracks, boardwalk and staircase. A steep climb is required to reach the viewing platform which provides breathtaking views of the surrounding low lands.
Set aside 5-6 hours to complete.
Dogs are not permitted.
There is a carpark at Killykeegan NNR signposted, with toilet facilities. Visitors can use the Killykeegan Nature Reserve car park or Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre.
Carrick -a-Rede Rope Bridge
A popular tourist attraction. Connected to cliffs by a rope bridge across the Atlantic Ocean. Suspended 100ft (30m) above sea level, it was first erected by salmon fisherman 350 years ago.
Set aside 1 hour to complete. A good one for beginners.
You'll need to purchase allocated time tickets.
Causeway Coastal Walk
This superb, two-day 33 mile walking route takes you along Northern Ireland's most celebrated coastline. High cliffs, pass secluded beaches and historic landmarks.
With frequent access points and terrain suitable for all fit walkers, this is one route you'll remember for years to come.
Rostrevor and Kilbroney Forest
The Cloughmore car park is 230m above sea level and provides views of the surrounding forest. There are three trails, which vary in length from 1.25 miles to 4.5 miles with great views of Carlingford Lough along the way.
Divis and Black Mountain Trial
View the city from a different perspective, from above! The Divis Ridge Trail allows the walkers to enjoy 180 degree views across the city and further afield including the Antrim Plateau to the north, Scotland to the east and the Mourne Mountains to the south.
Set aside 2-3 hours to complete. A great flat walk for beginners. 4 miles long.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on leads.
Cave Hill
One of the most popular city hikes with stunning panoramic views of Belfast from the top. Start at Belfast Castle and join the 'Cave Hill' signposted route.
Set aside 1.5-3 hours to complete. A challenging 4.5 mile hike.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on leads.
Slemish
It lies a few miles east of Ballymena. This route begins at Slemish Car Park about 15 minutes drive from the village of Broughshane. After following a grassy track to the base of the mountain, walkers choose their own path over rocky terrain to the summit, some 430m above sea level. According to legend, following his capture and being brought to Ireland as a slave, Saint Patrick worked as a shepherd at Slemish.
Set aside 1.5-2 hours to complete. A challenging 1.5 mile steep hike.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on leads.
Read more:
Idyllic picnic spots across Northern Ireland
11 family-friendly walks and parks across Northern Ireland
Best places to spot dolphins along Northern Ireland's coast