Belfast is the capital and largest city in Northern Ireland so inevitably it has its share of high-rise offices, high-density housing and traffic congestion, just as you might expect in any city. However, amongst the urban sprawl, you will find the best parks in Belfast with lots of incredible wildlife and nature to enjoy.
- Victoria Park
- Ormeau Park
- Musgrave Park
- Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park
- Lagan Valley Regional Park
- Botanic Gardens
- Alexandra Park
- Cathedral Gardens
Victoria Park
In the Connswater area, to the east of the city centre. Here you’ll find this water park that’s a haven for wildlife such as herons and migrating birds. Due to its diverse wildlife, it’s been designated as part of the Belfast Lough Area of Special Scientific Interest.
It’s a great place to relax if, for example, you’ve been visiting the Titanic Quarter of Belfast. It lies in the shadow of the Harland & Wolfe shipyards.
You’ll also find BMX and general cycling trails here, and a poetry trail of nature-inspired poems by local schoolchildren.
Victoria Park is part of the larger Connswater Community Greenway, a six-mile trail linking the area’s green spaces.
Ormeau Park
Located to the south of the city centre, Ormeau Park is the oldest municipal park in Belfast. It is still one of the city’s largest open spaces. It’s one of the best parks in Belfast for actively minded people, boasting eco trails, orienteering routes, regular organised Parkruns, a children’s playground, football pitches, bowling greens, a BMX track and basketball, tennis and netball courts.
It also hosts concerts featuring some of the world’s biggest music artists, under the banner of the Belsonic Festival.
Musgrave Park
Located in the southwest of the city. This is one of the best parks for horticulturalists and is noted for its floral displays.
The park is also popular with walkers and joggers.
Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park
This South Belfast park is celebrated for its International Rose Garden and is especially busy during July’s Rose Week.
Here, you’ll also find other fine gardens, such as the Walled Garden and the relaxing Japanese Garden; as well as woodland and meadows. The coffee shop is open every day.
Lagan Valley Regional Park
Many people choose to visit Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park as part of a trip to Lagan Valley Regional Park – a must-visit if you are here to see the best parks in Belfast.
The only area in Northern Ireland to have Regional Park status. The 4,500-acre park extends for 11 miles along both banks of the River Lagan. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty links the Stranmillis district of Belfast with the neighbouring city of Lisburn.
Wildlife lovers can come here to spot kingfishers and otters, while history buffs will love the ancient Neolithic site.
Terrace Hill not only has a superb rose garden, but also some fine views of the Belfast Hills. You can also visit the Lock Keeper’s Cottage to find out about the area’s industrial heritage.
Botanic Gardens
Just to the south of the city centre are the Botanic Gardens of Queen’s University. Some of the exotic things to see in the Tropical Ravine and Palm House include a number of birds of paradise, orchids, banana plants. Outside, the gardens are home to numerous plants that you would normally only see in the Southern Hemisphere.
Other highlights include the Rose Garden, the Long Herbaceous Border and the rare oak trees. The on-site café is open every day.
Alexandra Park
This park is one of the most attractive green spaces in the north of the city. Alexandra Park is very much a formally designed park, with several tree-lined avenues.
It’s also noted for its ducks and other water birds – there is a large lake in the centre of the park. The lower area of the park, known as the Glen, provides fine views of the city too.
At one time, the park was divided into separate areas for the Catholic and Protestant communities. Now the gate in the ‘peace wall’ is open during normal opening hours, so everyone can enjoy the entire park.
Cathedral Gardens
This is perhaps the best of the green spaces in the city centre. You can sit amongst the trees on the benches and picnic tables. While children will just love the Buoy Park play facility, designed by children for children, which boasts a hamster wheel, brightly coloured mushrooms, rainbow grass, musical instruments and a swing bridge.
Have these wonderful parks in Belfast piqued your interest? At Situ we offer a wide range of beautiful serviced apartments in Belfast, meaning you can visit the city comfortably for the long or short term. Why not have a look at our website to view what is available now!