The Emerald Isle is called that for a reason. Many people are attracted by its atmosphere, and Belfast is no exception. Despite being an industrial city, it has plenty of natural areas worth visiting. Depending on your travel style and who you are coming with, you may prefer one place or another. You can find everything from parks that feel like forests to hills overlooking the city. These are our top 5 favourite outdoor areas to see and things to do in Belfast.

5. Lagan Meadows and Belvoir Park

This walk is one of my favourite things in Belfast. It’s one of those places you won’t go to unless someone tells you it exists. It’s a route along the river path, with the Lagan on one side and the meadow on the other 🌳. The cherry on top is that at the end you reach Belvoir Park, which is a full-on forest area in the middle of the city. Well, not exactly in the city centre, but hey, it’s worth the walk!

We put it in fifth place because it’s a route that takes you farther and farther from the centre and is more suited for cycling. In other words, it’s a fairly long and linear path. But listen, at the start and end point (it’s a linear route) you’ll find your reward: the Cutters Wharf. This pub has a super relaxing riverside terrace and a very chilled atmosphere. And that pint after the long walk will taste like pure glory!

Best: it’s the kind of walk that makes any Spaniard think “This looks more like a forest than a park.” Pure lushness.

Worst: The location. It’s not designed for tourists, but sometimes that’s exactly what gives it charm.

4. Ormeau Park

This park is much smaller than the previous one but just as leafy. Much more central and just a short walk from practically the city centre. This one is definitely suitable for children. Also, if the rain catches you, it’s no problem at all because you’re right next to Ormeau Road. There, you’ll find lots of cafés, pubs and restaurants to take shelter with a warm tea in hand.

On the one hand, if you’re just passing through, you can cross it in a straight line in 15–20 minutes, or you can start exploring—once you leave the main path it really feels like being out in the countryside. If you don’t know what to see in Belfast outdoors and don’t want to spend the whole morning on it, this is your best choice.

Best: Its location.

Worst: It’s not as big as other outdoor areas in the city.

3. Botanic Gardens

This is one of the best-known outdoor areas to see in Belfast and where everyone gathers as soon as the sun comes out, but that’s not why we put it 3rd in the ranking. Belfast weather, when it turns bad, turns really bad, so going outdoors is a challenge—however, in the Botanic Gardens there are greenhouse areas with many species where you can stay warm all year round. A delight.

Right next door is the university area, starting with Queen's University, and the whole Botanic area (they were practical with the name), full of great food options and affordable accommodation. Our favourite spot in the area is the Belfast Empire, a former church turned into a concert venue/pub depending on the floor. Amazing. Right next to the Empire there’s a train stop that takes you to the centre in 2 minutes for £1.80. A little shortcut 😉

Best: it works as a bunker against the rain and has impressive flora inside the greenhouse.

Worst: It can feel a bit small, but if you don’t know what to see in Belfast and you’re in the south side, it’s well worth it.

2. Cavehill

It’s Belfast’s most famous hill by far. With its characteristic caves where you can take an Instagram-worthy photo—only surpassed by the photo you take at the summit—it’s truly a way to go hiking without leaving the city.

The usual route is to go up to the castle, either by taxi, Uber or bus. There are many bus lines that drop you off right next to it from the centre, and Ubers are surprisingly cheap—you don’t need to pay for the tourist bus. From the castle (which takes about 5 minutes), take the path on the left and off you go to conquer the summit!

Fun fact: if you look at Cavehill from the city centre, you’ll notice it looks like a head. That’s what inspired Jonathan Swift for the giant at the beginning of “Gulliver’s Travels”.

Best: the caves and the summit are definitely something to see in Belfast if nature is your thing.

Worst: Instagram influencers taking photos. Just kidding, but the summit area is usually quite busy.

1. Divis and Black Mountain

Without a doubt, my favourite route—and there’s only one highest point in Belfast. With the best views of the city, this route truly earns the name “hiking route”. You’ll cross West Belfast, famous for its murals, and reach the lower part of the hill—and from there, get ready, because you’re walking up.

It’s better to go in the morning, especially in winter, since you might take longer than expected. The views are stunning, and the hill itself—called Black Mountain because it’s made of limestone and basalt—makes this route something truly worth visiting.

To reach the base you can go on foot, by bus or by Uber. Prices are very reasonable. There are several bus lines that drop you nearby, but if you go by Uber or taxi, you can always take advantage and ask the driver any question or curiosity that pops into your mind.

Best: The views and the place itself. You can spend a long time there.

Worst: The location. But hey, it’s a hill next to the city.

In short, Belfast has green spaces for every type of traveller. You’ll have to choose which one suits you best. If you want any advice or have any questions, feel free to leave them in the comments. I’ll answer the most common doubt in advance: yes, bring an umbrella.

If you’ve decided to put on your boots and visit one of these places but haven’t decided what time of year to come, here’s another post so you know what kind of weather to expect.

Enjoy exploring what to see in Belfast and what to do in Belfast!