Cave Hill Country Park
Cave Hill Country Park covers the hillside above north Belfast, with woodland trails, Belfast Castle and the clifftop ráth of McArt's Fort at about 368 metres. It takes its name from five caves in the cliffs and offers some of the best views over the city and Belfast Lough.
Photos
Dee Fusco
What's here
The five caves high on the cliffs may have been early iron mines. McArt's Fort, an ancient ráth, sits on the summit, and the park also has remains of a stone cairn, a cashel and a crannog. Belfast Castle and its gardens lie on the lower slopes. The archaeology shows people have used this hill for thousands of years.
Choosing a trail
The Castle Trail is a short 1.3 km loop through the castle grounds. The Estate Trail runs 3.9 km through woodland with 134 m of climb. The Cavehill Trail is the big one, 7.2 km with 256 m of ascent, and needs a good level of fitness; part of it between the Devil's Punchbowl and McArt's Fort has been closed because of erosion, so check before you set out.
Planning a visit
The trailhead is at the second car park on the drive up to Belfast Castle, and there are other car parks at Innisfayle Park, Grays Lane and Upper Hightown Road. Wear proper footwear for the upper paths. Cattle graze the hill, so keep dogs on a short lead. Afterwards, head into the city for Crumlin Road Gaol or Titanic Belfast.
Highlights
- Panoramic views over Belfast
- McArt's Fort at about 368 m
- Five caves in the cliffs
- Belfast Castle and gardens
- Three waymarked trails
Good to know
- Car parks at Belfast Castle, Innisfayle Park, Grays Lane and Upper Hightown Road.
- Part of the Cavehill Trail is closed due to erosion; check before setting out.
- Cattle graze the park, so keep dogs on a short lead.
- Wear sturdy footwear for the summit trail.
Frequently asked questions
Sources: belfastcity.gov.uk