Outdoor Activities

Get outside and experience Belfast’s vibrant mix of natural beauty, urban exploration and fresh-air adventures. Whether you want to hike panoramic trails, wander leafy parks, or join a guided cycling tour, Belfast’s outdoors is brimming with ways to explore. 

Explore Belfast’s Parks & Gardens 

Belfast is a green city at heart, dotted with parks and gardens perfect for a relaxing stroll, a family picnic or even a spontaneous game of football. Botanic Gardens is a Victorian gem close to the city centre, famous for its elegant Palm House, rose gardens and wide lawns where locals and visitors alike come to unwind. Ormeau Park offers playgrounds, walking loops and quiet corners to watch the world go by. For a more tranquil spot, discover the hidden beauty of Sir Thomas & Lady Dixon Park, especially stunning in rose season. 

Hiking & Scenic Walking Trails 

If you’re up for a bit more adventure, Belfast is surrounded by hills and trails that promise sweeping views over the city and beyond. Cave Hill Country Park is a local favourite — climb up to Napoleon’s Nose and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas stretching across Belfast Lough. Divis and the Black Mountain offer well-marked routes across open moorland, just a short drive from the city, making it easy to fit a hike into any itinerary. 

Cycling Belfast & Beyond 

Bring your bike or hire one locally and explore Belfast on two wheels. The city has growing cycle lanes and several riverside paths that keep you away from busy roads. 

For a guided option, join a city bike tour — a fantastic way to cover more ground while learning about Belfast’s history, street art and hidden corners from local guides. 

Family Outdoor Adventures 

Outdoor fun isn’t just for hardcore adventurers. Belfast is packed with family-friendly activities that make the most of being outside. Go Black Bull Runnin’ and ‘Flyover’ the Belfast Hills at Colin Glen or head to Jungle NI for their range of outdoor fun!