Glenariff Forest Park

Glen Road, Cushendall, County Antrim, BT37 0RT, Northern Ireland
1-90 Years

Description

Glenariff Forest Park is a vast natural park known as the “Queen of the Glens,” covering over 1,000 hectares of woodland, lakes and scenic landscapes. It is one of the most beautiful areas in Northern Ireland, offering a mix of nature, wildlife and outdoor adventure. Ideal for nature lovers and explorers, it provides a peaceful yet dramatic setting for a day outdoors.

Visitors can explore a range of walking trails including the Waterfall Walk, Scenic Trail and Viewpoint Trail, along with a historic boardwalk that winds through a stunning river gorge. The park features waterfalls, lakes, picnic and BBQ areas, and opportunities for wildlife spotting including red squirrels, Irish hares and birds of prey. Additional facilities include parking, toilets and a café, making it a comfortable and enjoyable destination for all visitors. 

Entry to Glenariff Forest Park is free, though parking may have charges depending on the visit. 

Glenariff Forest Park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure and relaxation. With its scenic trails, waterfalls and diverse wildlife, it provides a memorable outdoor experience. It is an ideal destination for walking, photography and enjoying the stunning landscapes of Northern Ireland.

Features

  • Free
  • Host birthday parties: No

Features

  • Glenariff, the Queen of the Glens, is one of the nine Antrim Glens in Northern Ireland. Glenariff Forest Park covers over 1,000 hectares with planted woodland, lakes, outdoor recreation spaces and conservation areas.
  • Glenariff Forest Park is open to the public and caters for many outdoor activities including walking, horse riding and touring. It has picnic and barbeque areas as well as a tea house.
  • The rocky gorges of the river support a wide range of mosses, liverworts and ferns. Due to the richness and diversity of these plants, part of the Glenariff Glen has been designated as a National Nature Reserve.
  • The timber walkway (boardwalk) that winds through the glen and alongside the river gorge was first built about 100 years ago and has been carefully reconstructed to provide a spectacular walk.
  • Glenariff Forest is home to many animals of conservation concern, most notably the red squirrel, hen harrier and Irish hare.
  • There are several walking trails through the forest which give spectacular views and glimpses of wildlife. These include Rainbow Trail (0.6km), Scenic Trail (8.9km), Viewpoint Trail (1km) and Waterfall Walk Trail (3km).

Facilities

  • Parking: On site parking available. 
  • Food & Drinks: Tea-room/Cafe onsite available. 
  • Toilets: Toilets available. 

Price

Price: Free

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: No

  • The forest is open daily for visitors on foot, 24 hours a day, but the car park gates are locked at night. 
  • Gates open by 08:00 daily and are locked at dusk.

Address: Glen Road, Cushendall, County Antrim, BT37 0RT, Northern Ireland

Post Code: BT37 0RT

Council: Cushendall

County: Antrim

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