Quality Walk

Gruffalo Trail - Colin Glen

With each character magically recreated by sculptor Andrew McIntyre and set against the backdrop of a stunning forest park this family attraction is perfect for kids and kids at heart! 

County

Antrim

Distance

0.6 (one way) miles

OS Map

Sheet 15 + Belfast Street Finder

Nearest Town

Belfast

Route Shape

Linear

Route Type

Forest, Parkland & Grassland, Riverside

Terrain

Tarmac paths

Grid Reference (Start)

J284705

Grid Reference (End)

J279711

Point of Interest

Sculptures of the much loved characters from the Gruffalo

Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Other Area

Route Description

The characters from the much loved picture book, The Gruffalo, written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler, have been brought to life along this trail at Colin Glen Forest Park in Belfast. 

Each character has been magically recreated by sculptor Andrew McIntyre and is set against the backdrop of the forest park and the Colin River.  From the car park, go through the Gruffalo Archway and follow the main path past Sky Trek and the red suspension bridge, keeping the Colin River on your right. You can then follow the Gruffalos footsteps to meet the silly old fox, owl and snake on the way to an amazing 8 foot tall Gruffalo - complete with knobbly knees, turned out toes and a poisonous wart on the end of his nose. 

The trail will take approximately 20 mins to get to the Gruffalo (depending on how many photos and selfies you take at each sculpture) and then you can sit for a moment or two and take in the beauty of the forest next to the river, before a comfortable stroll back down to the visitors centre, where you can grab a nice cup of tea or coffee.

The experience is completely free so bring the family and enjoy one of Belfast’s most beautiful parks and rather than read the Gruffalo book (again!) come and live it.

Getting to the Start (by Public Transport)

Translink - journeyplanner.translink.co.uk

Getting to the Start (by Car)

Car park at Colin Glen Visitor Centre - entrance signposted off the Stewartstown Road, Belfast.

Dogs

Dogs are allowed. Dogs must be kept under control

Accessibility Grade

Grade 3

Accessible Facilities

The following facilities are available for users with limited mobility:

Café (wheelchair accessible)
Disabled parking
Disabled toilets

Facilities

Colin Glen Forest Park Centre - car parking, toilets, cafe and information, opening hours apply.

Walk Location
Map of Northern Ireland
 
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