10 bluebell walks in Northern Ireland worth checking out
How pretty 💜
One of the loveliest sights in spring is a carpet of blooming bluebells.
Northern Ireland is home to some spectacular nature reserves and woodlands which at this time of year produce fantastic wildflowers, including the much-loved bluebell.
Bluebells are one of Britain’s more easily identified wildflowers, they are at their best from late April to mid-May.
The colour and scent is enchanting. There's nothing quite like a leisurely spring walk to blow away the cobwebs.
Why not make an afternoon out of it - pack a picnic with the family and enjoy a refreshing walk outdoors.
Here are our top bluebell walks for you to enjoy:
1. Glenariff Forest Park, County Antrim
Specular waterfalls, breath-taking glens and wild woodland scattered with bluebells await.
2. Downhill Demesne, County Derry/Londonderry
Visit this stunning landscape demesne where you'll find magnificent clifftop walks, affording rugged headland views across the North Coast. Discover Mussenden Temple and the striking 18th-century ruins of Downhill mansion. Bishop's Gate garden and glen is a great place for the whole family to relax and enjoy the delights of nature waking up – especially during bluebell season.
3. Castle Ward, County Down
Part gothic castle and part classical Palladian Mansion, this unique 18th century house is famed for its mixture of architectural styles. The wider estate offers plenty to explore from the Georgian farmyard to the shores of Strangford Lough, and in spring time there are around 5 miles of bluebell trails waiting to be discovered.
4. Prehen Wood, County Derry/Londonderry
Prehen wood is the perfect location for a superb bluebell display and a fantastic view over the River Foyle. This rare, ancient woodland is home to red squirrel, sparrowhawk and long-eared owl.
5. Castlewellan Forest Park, County Down
One of Northern Ireland's most famous lakes, a stunning Victorian Castle, incredible panoramic views, scenic walking trails the forest park comes alive in Spring.
6. Cave Hill Country Park, County Antrim
The Cave Hill dominates the skyline on the northern edge of Belfast. The hill is popular with walkers and joggers. There are eight marked trails, which range from short easy strolls to challenging 8km treks over the summit. The area is also rich in wild flowers such as bluebells and snowdrops.
7. Lisnabreeny, County Down
Take a wander through the wooded Cregagh glen at Lisnabreeny, and follow the path as it winds up to the hill fort on the summit of the Castlereagh hills, just east of Belfast. In springtime the woods are full of flowers, including wood anemone and carpets of bluebells.
8. Murlough National Nature Reserve, County Down
Murlough National Nature Reserve is home to one of the most stunning beaches in County Down and there are paths running through the dunes and heathland. You'll see lots of wildlife and carpets of wildflowers in spring, including a dazzling display of bluebells in the woods.
9. Minnowburn and Giant’s Ring, Belfast, County Antrim
Wander through the woods in spring to see a haze of bluebells at this tranquil refuge next to the Lagan river.
10. Mount Stewart, County Down
The mild climate around Mount Stewart has allows a wide range of plants to grow, from the Mediterranean specimens in the formal gardens to the wooded areas with their range of plants from all corners of the world. Even so, in spring time it's the bluebells that are the stars of the show as they cover the grounds with swathes of colour.
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