Waterworks

Belfast's former water supply is now home to many birds and wildfowl. A popular place for local people.

County

Antrim

Distance

1.4 miles

OS Map

Sheet 15 + Belfast Street Finder

Nearest Town

Antrim Road, Belfast

Route Shape

Circular

Route Type

Parkland & Grassland, Urban

Terrain

Surfaced paths with some steps

Grid Reference (Start)

J333765

Grid Reference (End)

J333765

Point of Interest

Birdlife, ponds, views

Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Other Area

Route Description

There are 3 walks around this site - 0.4, 0.9 & 1.4 miles around 2 lakes on tarmac paths.

The longest walk 1.4 miles is described here.

This is a circular walk that can be started from any of entrances to the Waterworks. This description begins at the Queen Mary’s Gardens entrance on the corner of the Cavehill Road and the Antrim Road.

At the round flower bed keep to your left alongside the stream and over the bridge. Climb both sets of steps, then turn right; notice the former gate keeper’s house, (now private). Continue along the tree lined avenue and alongside the lower pond, pausing to enjoy the birdlife and views of Cave Hill.

You can climb to the upper level pond via the steps straight ahead or the ramp to the left. The islands and green edges of this pond are home to a variety of wildlife.

Soon you will pass a small playground before passing over another bridge. The path winds its way around the upper pond. After circling the upper pond, a path off to the left returns you to the lower level.

On the north bank of the lower lake you will find another playground and seating. This area is dominated by the Waterworks Multi-sports facility (Tel 028 9075 4200).

From here it is a short walk back to the starting point.