Ormeau Park and Lagan River Circular Walk

While the Ormeau Park and Lagan River Circular Walk is a laid back excursion, it does pass through the heart of Belfast and will likely see a large volume of other users. If you want to experience the trail with the least amount of people, you should try to arrive early. Additionally, this trail follows the Lagan River for nearly its entire length, so make sure to exercise caution when walking with children.

Even though it can be a bit busy at times, this is still an exceptional urban walking route that will provide you with some respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. The numerous parks and greenspaces along the route, in addition to the scenic riverside atmosphere makes this a spectacular adventure that can be enjoyed by all, no matter the season.

Setting out from the trailhead, you will make your way southwest through Ormeau Park, crossing over Ormeau Road near the bridge to arrive at the banks of the Lagan River along the Annadale Embankment. From here, you will head to the southwest and follow along the water’s edge, eventually crossing over the Governor’s Bridge to reach the opposite bank of the river.

Continuing to the southwest, take some time to appreciate the lovely riverside setting, as you make your way along the edge of the Lagan Meadows park and once again cross over the river. Heading right along the trail, you will begin a short loop around Big Meadow and the surrounding woodland terrain, eventually arriving right back at the point where you started the loop.

Head right here to make your way back across the bridge, once again following along the banks of the Lagan River, this time to the northeast. Along this portion of the walk, you can simply retrace your steps along the same route in order to arrive back at the trailhead where you began the Ormeau Park and Lagan River Circular Walk.

Trail Highlights

Ormeau Park

Owned and operated by the Belfast city council, Ormeau Park is the oldest municipal park that can be found in Belfast, having been first opened to the public in 1871. The park is now open daily from sunrise to sunset and offers a wide variety of facilities for the public to use, ranging from sports fields to walking/cycling trails and greenspace for horticultural displays.