Lisnabreeny and Cregagh Glen

Lisnabreeny and Cregagh Glen climbs from the edge of east Belfast through a wooded glen, an old estate and open fields to the summit of the Castlereagh hills. The path hugs the side of Cregagh Glen beside its stream and waterfall, under bluebells and wood anemones in spring, and near the top passes a memorial marking the temporary graveyard of American servicemen buried here during the Second World War. Beyond it stands Lisnabreeny House, once home to the poet Nesca Robb and later a youth hostel and army headquarters before its restoration as part of Lagan College, its old garden walls replanted with broadleaves beside a natural play area for den building. Higher still the view opens from the Mournes to Scrabo, and on the hilltop is the tree-ringed rath, the ancient fortified homestead that names the place. Dogs are welcome but must stay on a lead at all times. Reviewers rate it among the best walks in Belfast, a short but steep climb with steps. Tips from visitors: parking is the weak point, with only a small car park on Lisnabreeny Road and none at the other entrances, and the path turns muddy and wet from waterfall spray.