10 of the prettiest places to see the autumn leaves in Northern Ireland
Definitely the most underrated season 🍁🍂🍃
Last updated 17th Oct 2018
Autumn is a great season to get outdoors. The nights are getting longer and everything's changing from green to gold, amber and russet.
While many other countries lay claim to the beauty of the ‘fall’, here are some of Northern Ireland’s most beautiful spots to witness the turning of the leaves.
10. Tollymore Forest Park, Newcastle, Co.Down
A walk in the gorgeous Tollymore is full of adventures and novelties – forestry, bridges, grottos, caves and three sets of stepping stones over the Shimna River. Which is probably why HBO filmed Game of Thrones® here. Crossing this waterway always makes for a great photo opportunity.
9. Glenariff Forest Park, Co.Antrim
Glenariff, the "Queen of the Glens", hosts the spectacular Glenariff Forest Park.
The Waterfall Walkway opened over 80 years ago. The walk passes through three waterfalls and forest trails that offer picturesque panoramic views.
There's also a visitor centre, exhibition, interactive display, shop, caravan site and a seasonal restaurant on site
8. Mount Stewart, Newtownards, Co.Down
Autumn is a wonderful time to visit Mount Stewart - it's not just the foliage changing, it's the wildlife too. Look out for the red squirrels preparing for winter. Staff are on hand to answer questions and advise you on the best places to discover wildlife.
7. Castle Espie, Comber, Co.Down
Autumn is a magical time of the year to visit Castle Espie Wetland Centre.
October sees the return of other migratory bird species, including Whooper swans, which are often seen swooping overhead after completing their own remarkable journey from the Arctic.
6. Ward Park, Bangor, Co.Down
Near the seaside town of Bangor, Ward Park covers a spectacular area of 37 acres of woodland. It also has a chain of small lakes providing wildfowl sanctuary with many interesting specimens and dry pens containing a large variety of exotic birds.
5. Crom Demesne, Enniskillen, Co.Fermanagh
Take a walk through an incredible landscape of orange and gold. Jump in crunchy leaves, discover shiny conkers and enjoy uplifting fresh air with all the family and keep and eye out for the array of both resident and visiting wildlife.
Going for a wander among the woodland trees or along the wall overlooking Lough Erne is sure to help us all feel happier and healthier this autumn.
4. Castle Ward, Strangford, Co.Down
Home of Winterfell in Game of Thrones®, Castle Ward is particularly spectacular in autumn when the colours change and the summer months starts to settle down.
There is plenty to discover, starting with the changing colours of the deciduous trees as the lose their leaves for the winter. The first to turn is the Ivy in the courtyard, finishing off summer with a blaze of pinks and reds.
From the farmyard, head out to Temple Water where the Japanese maples will be in full colour.
3. The Argory, Dungannon, Co.Antrim
Come an investigate the many species of funghi popping their heads up all over the estate and check out the changing aspect of the trees as they start to lose their leaves once again. Bond’s Bridge is a must visit.
2. Botanic Gardens, Belfast, Co.Antrim
Autumn is one of the best times to take a long walk in Botanic Gardens with a number of family-friendly walking trails. The park is popular with residents, students and visitors and is home to the Palm House and the Tropical Ravine.
1. Stormont Estate, Belfast, Co.Down
Only five miles out of the city, one of the most popular spots to admire and take in the autumnal colours. Explore Parliament Buildings and the beautiful surroundings of the estate. Take a stroll along the winding forest paths mapped out for walkers and joggers.