
Hillsborough Forest, Lake Walk
Set within 150 acres of mixed woodlands this is the ideal place to walk and relax in nature. The forest is rich with bird life and larger mammals, including foxes and badgers may also be seen. Fishing, by permit only, is also available.
The forest is open from dawn till dusk every day. Admission and car parking is free.
Within Hillsborough Forest, the 17th Century Hillsborough Fort can be seen, built on the sight of an old stronghold, founded by Peter Hill in 1630. The square fort features a parapet wall and was granted Royal Fort status by Charles II.
County
Down
Distance
1.2 miles
OS Map
Sheet 20
Nearest Town
Hillsborough
Route Shape
Circular
Route Type
Forest, Woodland
Terrain
Moderate, steep in places
Grid Reference (Start)
J24346
Grid Reference (End)
J58413
Point of Interest
The tree fringed lake attracts a wide variety of wildfowl, ancient rath
Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Other Area
Route Description
From the main car park follow the path to the lake. Here the choice is yours whether to follow the trail around the lake in a clockwise or anticlockwise direction. This trail passes Hillsborough Fort, managed by NI Environment Agency and is accessible from the path. Look out for the many species of resident and over wintering waterfowl, especially swans and several varieties of duck.
These walks are situated in a working forest environment and may be subject to diversion and closure from time to time.
Getting to the Start (by Public Transport)
Translink - journeyplanner.translink.co.uk
Getting to the Start (by Car)
The main A1 Belfast to Dublin road passes close by the village, with access signposted via the roundabout at the north end of the village and easy access over a bridge at the south end. The Forest entrance is located at the end of Park Street and this is signposted from the main road through the village.
Dogs
Dogs are allowed. Dogs are allowed. All dogs should be kept under proper control. Dogs must not be allowed to foul on footpaths – please clear up and use the dog fould bins provided at the forest car park and at several points en route around the forest trails.
Facilities
Car parking / picnic facilities / ice cream and confectionery is sold from a mobile van. Several cafes, restaurants and shops are located close by in the village. Public toilets with wheelchair access are available at Hillsborough Fort and in the village beside. The Lake is also a publicly owned fishery (stocked with rainbow trout). Fishing is by permit only, issued by DCAL Inland Fisheries.
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