Cregagh Glen and Lisnabreeny

This is a linear route, which returns by way of the same path. It can be walked in either direction, parking in local streets at the Knockbreda Road end, or in the National Trust car park on the Lisnabreeny Road. Care should be taken if crossing the Upper Knockbreda Rd - this is a busy dual carriageway.

Beginning at the entrance on the Upper Knockbreda Road, follow the path uphill through Cregagh Glen. At certain points along the glen you can choose to follow the main path or follow the samller path along the Glen River itself. The path hugs the sides of Cregagh glen as it climbs through pools of sunlight cast by the trees. You’ll hear the waterfall, but also keep an eye out for the carpets of bluebell and wood anemone in spring.

The first part of this walk is through a picturesque wooded glen. At the top of the glen, cross under the Manse Road via a walkway and into the grounds of Lisnabreeny House.

Follow the lane past Lisnabreeny House, once the home of poet Nesca Robb, briefly a youth hostel and army headquarters before restoration as part of Lagan College. Look out for the ivy-strewn walls of the old garden, now replanted with broadleaves and build a den in the natural play area.

You will then pass through several gates as the laneway winds its way uphill. Continue along the gravel track as it weaves through gorse bushes and passes through a field.

From here you will see a stand of mature trees marking the site of a rath. Continue to follow the path to explore the rath. Form here, the path continues a short distance to the National Trust car park on the Lisnabreeny Road.

Retrace your steps downhill to the Manse Road, and through the glen to the starting point.