Winter Storm Damage blog statement
Subsequent to the severe storms this past winter many woodland paths and tracks remain impassable. In some cases the damage is so severe that the areas are closed for any kind of extended walking. In the coming months I will revisit as many walks as possible and update the blog accordingly. Please do not assume that walks are available as described and obey any closure signage you encounter on the ground.
Maps and photos note: click or tap to see any maps or photographs below as a high resolution version.
The green wedge of the Lagan Valley Regional Park divides the City of Belfast in the best possible way. It starts as a sliver beside the Lagan at Stranmillis and widens and twists its way out of the city.
These walks occupy the section of the park beyond the ringroad – where the concrete flyover gives way to the solid stone arches of the, now pedestrian, Shaw’s Bridge. Between here and the mysterious massive hilltop earthworks of the Giant’s Ring lie a wonderful mixture of riverside beech wood; former domains of Belfast’s rich set; and walker accessible farmland (a rare treat indeed). And throughout it all an excellent network of paths and bridges courtesy of the City Council and the National Trust.
This map a should give you a good overview of walking options in this area: