Glenariff Forest Park: Queen of the Glens
Discover Glenariff Forest Park, the 'Queen of the Glens,' with stunning waterfalls, scenic trails, and rich natural beauty in Northern Ireland.
Glenariff Forest Park, nestled in the Antrim Glens of Northern Ireland, is a stunning natural haven. Known as the 'Queen of the Glens,' it boasts diverse landscapes, including woodlands, waterfalls, and tranquil riverside walks. Visitors can explore various trails, enjoy picnic areas, and immerse themselves in the beauty of this natural reserve.
A brief summary to Glenariff Forest
- Ballymena, GB
Local tips
- Wear appropriate footwear, as some trails can be steep and uneven, especially the Waterfall Walk.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and waterfalls, particularly along the Scenic Trail.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change quickly in the Glens.
- Consider visiting during the spring to see woodland flowers like bluebells and wood anemones along the Rainbow Trail.
- Parking is available for a fee (£5 for cars), so arrive early during peak season to secure a spot.
Getting There
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Car
From Ballymena, take the A43 Glenariff Road northeast for approximately 15 miles (24 km). The forest park entrance is well-signposted. Parking is available on-site for £5. Be aware that the car park gates are locked at dusk.
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Public Transport
From Ballymena, Ulsterbus service number 150 operates to and from Ballymena (Monday to Saturday only) and stops at the front entrance gate. Check the Translink website for the most up-to-date schedule and fare information. A pedestrian entry fee of £2 may apply.
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Walking
If you are already in the vicinity, such as the village of Waterfoot, you can walk to Glenariff Forest Park via the Glenariff Road (A43). Be aware that it is a considerable walk (approximately 3 miles) along a road with vehicle traffic. Pedestrians may be charged £2 for access.
Discover more about Glenariff Forest
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Whitepark Bay viewpoint
28.7 km
Dramatic clifftop vista of white sand and ancient dunes on the North Antrim coast.
Antrim Round Tower (State Care Monument)
33.6 km
Explore Antrim’s 28-metre medieval round tower, a resilient symbol of Ireland’s monastic heritage and Viking-era defense.
Shane's Castle
33.9 km
Ruined grandeur on Lough Neagh's shore—centuries of O'Neill dynasty power, fire, and legend.
Giants Causeway Carpark
34.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Giants Causeway Carpark, the gateway to Northern Ireland's iconic natural wonder and captivating myths.
Giant's Causeway - Blue Trail
34.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and geological wonders of Giant's Causeway - a must-visit hiking area in Northern Ireland.
Giant's Causeway & Bushmills Railway
34.1 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and geological marvels of Giant's Causeway, paired with a charming journey on the historic Bushmills Railway.
Shepherd's Steps
34.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Shepherd's Steps, a natural preserve leading to the iconic Giant's Causeway with stunning coastal views and unique geological formations.
National Trust - Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre
34.2 km
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Giant's Causeway Viewpoint
34.4 km
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Antrim Castle Gardens
34.5 km
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Amphitheatre Viewpoint - End of the cliffwalk
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Bay of the Cow
34.5 km
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Clotworthy House
34.5 km
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Giant's Causeway
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Portcoon Jetty
34.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Glenariff Forest Park
1.4 km
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Antrim Coast and Glens National Landscape
2.3 km
Experience Northern Ireland’s stunning Antrim Coast and Glens, where dramatic cliffs, deep valleys, and rich wildlife create a breathtaking natural and cultural landscape.
Red Bay Castle
6.7 km
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Cranny Falls
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Discover Cranny Falls: A gentle coastal walk to a hidden waterfall with historical trails and scenic views in County Antrim.
Cushendall Beach
8.2 km
A peaceful sandy and shingle beach on the Antrim Coast, framed by mountains and the Glens of Antrim, with sweeping views to Scotland.
Carnlough Harbour
9.3 km
A sheltered harbour rich in history, scenic beauty, and Game of Thrones fame on Northern Ireland’s stunning Antrim coast.
Glenarm Castle
12.5 km
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Cushendun Caves
12.6 km
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Whitebay
14.0 km
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Torr Head
19.7 km
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The Dark Hedges
20.5 km
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Bonamargy Friary (State Care Monument)
21.1 km
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Ballycastle Museum
21.4 km
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Ballygally Castle Hotel
21.7 km
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Kinbane Castle
25.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Laragh Lodge Restaurant
1.8 km
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Harrys Cushendall
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Frances Anne and Tapestry Restaurant
9.2 km
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The Scenic Inn
16.6 km
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The Cellar
21.4 km
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Millside Restaurant
22.8 km
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The Fullerton Arms
28.0 km
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Carrick-A-Rede Bar and Restaurant
28.0 km
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Roark's Kitchen
29.2 km
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Bothy White Park Bay
29.7 km
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McLarnons Ramble Inn
29.9 km
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Causeway Tavern B & B
31.1 km
Family-run B&B near Bushmills offering cozy rooms, hearty breakfasts, and lively local charm just minutes from the Giant’s Causeway.
Dunsilly Hotel
31.8 km
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Tartine at the Distillers Arms
32.4 km
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The Bush House Bar
32.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
EBB&FLOW Crafts and Gifts Carnlough
9.2 km
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Logans Fashions
15.0 km
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The Nest Broughshane
15.3 km
Award-winning gift emporium in a historic building, celebrating Northern Ireland's artisan makers.
Fairhill Shopping Centre
19.5 km
Discover a shopping paradise at Fairhill Shopping Centre, Ballymena, where fashion meets flavor and community spirit thrives.
Cobwebs
21.4 km
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Home Made Beautiful
21.5 km
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That Witch
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The Original Factory Shop (Ballycastle)
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Someplace in Time
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The Woodpile Provisions
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Be Unique By Emma
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Emerald Bears
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The wee shop
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North Coast Coffee
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Pets At The Causeway
31.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Glen Bar
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The Armada Inn
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The Blackstone Bar & Off Sales
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Hunters Bar
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The Diamond Bar
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House of McDonnell
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Glenshesk Bar
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Halo Ballycastle
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The Boyd Arms
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O'Connor's Bar
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Nellie Rua's, Ballycastle
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ANZAC BAR, RESTAURANT & OFF SALES
21.5 km
Discover the heart of Irish culture at ANZAC Bar, Restaurant & Off Sales in Ballycastle, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.
Harbour Bar
21.6 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and local charm at Harbour Bar, Ballycastle's premier destination for drinks and entertainment.
Anglers Arms
21.7 km
Experience the warm Irish hospitality at Anglers Arms Pub in Ballycastle, offering delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere to enjoy with friends.
The Coast Inn
22.2 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at The Coast Inn, Ballycastle's cherished pub offering local cuisine and craft beverages.
