The Belvoir Oak: Belfast’s Ancient Natural Monument
Discover the ancient majesty of Northern Ireland’s oldest oak, a serene natural monument nestled in Belfast’s Belvoir Park Forest.
The Belvoir Oak, estimated to be around 500 years old, is possibly the oldest oak tree in Northern Ireland. Nestled within Belvoir Park Forest in Belfast, this majestic tree stands as a living witness to centuries of history and the growth of the city. Revered for its impressive size and venerable age, the Belvoir Oak offers visitors a serene connection to nature and heritage amid tranquil forest surroundings.
A brief summary to The Belvoir Oak
- Belfast, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during spring or early autumn for mild weather and vibrant forest colors.
- Bring a camera to capture the impressive size and intricate details of the ancient oak.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the surrounding forest paths can be uneven.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the River Lagan nearby for varied scenery.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take the Metro bus service from Belfast city center to the Belvoir Park area; the journey takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day but check schedules for weekend service. A single fare costs around £2.50 GBP.
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Taxi
A taxi from central Belfast to Belvoir Park Forest takes about 15 to 20 minutes depending on traffic. This is a convenient option if traveling with family or in a group, with fares typically ranging between £10 and £15 GBP.
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Car
Driving to Belvoir Park Forest is straightforward via local roads; parking is available near the park entrance. Note that parking spaces can be limited during weekends and holidays. No parking fee applies.
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Walking
For those staying nearby, walking to the Belvoir Oak through Belvoir Park Forest offers a scenic experience. The terrain is mostly flat but includes natural forest paths; allow 20 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point and mobility.
The Belvoir Oak location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Belvoir Oak
A Living Testament to Centuries of History
The Belvoir Oak is a remarkable natural landmark estimated to be around 500 years old, making it one of the oldest, if not the oldest, oak trees in Northern Ireland. Situated in the tranquil Belvoir Park Forest on the outskirts of Belfast, this tree has silently observed the transformation of the surrounding landscape from rural lands to the bustling cityscape of modern Belfast. It embodies the deep-rooted natural heritage of the area and serves as a symbol of endurance and continuity through time.Majestic Size and Natural Beauty
This ancient oak impresses visitors with its vast canopy and robust trunk, showcasing the grandeur that centuries of growth can achieve. Its sprawling branches provide a shaded sanctuary within the forest, attracting nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking peaceful moments. The tree’s textured bark and twisting limbs tell a story of resilience against the elements, while the surrounding forest offers a rich habitat for local wildlife.Serene Forest Setting and Recreational Appeal
Belvoir Park Forest, where the oak resides, is known for its peaceful walking trails, scenic views over the River Lagan, and gentle streams. The park’s natural tranquility complements the ancient tree’s aura, making it a favored spot for leisurely strolls, family outings, and quiet reflection. The diverse paths and natural features around the Belvoir Oak enhance the visitor experience, inviting exploration and connection with nature.Cultural and Environmental Significance
Recognized as part of Northern Ireland’s living heritage, the Belvoir Oak holds cultural importance beyond its natural beauty. It is a reminder of the region’s ecological history and the importance of preserving ancient trees as vital components of biodiversity and heritage conservation. Efforts to protect and celebrate the tree underscore its role as a cherished landmark within the community.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to the Belvoir Oak often describe a sense of awe and reverence, drawn by the tree’s age and stature. The peaceful ambience of the forest, combined with the tree’s commanding presence, creates a unique atmosphere of calm and wonder. This site offers a perfect retreat from urban life, inviting visitors to pause and appreciate the slow, enduring rhythms of nature.Ongoing Legacy and Conservation
As a living monument, the Belvoir Oak continues to inspire conservation efforts and environmental awareness. It stands as a symbol of the importance of protecting ancient natural landmarks for future generations. The tree’s survival through centuries highlights the resilience of nature and the value of stewardship in maintaining such irreplaceable treasures.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lord Kelvin Statue
3.1 km
Celebrate the legacy of Belfast’s own Lord Kelvin with this striking bronze statue set in the historic Botanic Gardens.
Shaftesbury Square
3.9 km
A historic and bustling junction in Belfast where Victorian heritage meets vibrant modern city life.
Falls Rd
4.5 km
Political murals, peace walls, and powerful stories of resilience in West Belfast's iconic Republican heartland.
Visit West Belfast
4.5 km
Your gateway to the vibrant culture, history, and community of West Belfast on the iconic Falls Road.
Alec the Goose
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A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
Frederick Temple Memorial
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A striking bronze tribute to Lord Dufferin, reflecting Belfast’s imperial heritage and the legacy of a renowned British diplomat.
Belfast City Hall Tours
4.7 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
4.7 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
4.7 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with DC Tours, your premier walking tour agency for unforgettable sightseeing experiences.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
4.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich mythology of Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland, through guided tours and immersive experiences.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
4.7 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
4.7 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
4.7 km
Discover the heart of Belfast with a free walking tour that unveils the city's history, culture, and hidden gems through the eyes of local guides.
The Back Of Boots
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Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Treasure Trails
4.8 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Trust - Minnowburn
1.3 km
Discover Minnowburn’s peaceful woodlands and riverside trails, a natural sanctuary just outside Belfast with rich wildlife and scenic valley views.
Giant's Ring
1.9 km
Explore the Giant's Ring, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic henge near Belfast, featuring a central dolmen and vast ceremonial earthworks steeped in ancient mystery.
Forestside Shopping Centre
1.9 km
A comprehensive suburban shopping centre in Belfast offering diverse stores, dining, and excellent parking facilities for a convenient retail experience.
Ulster Museum
3.1 km
Explore the Ulster Museum, a stunning fusion of art, history, and natural beauty in the heart of Belfast's Botanic Gardens.
Botanic Gardens
3.1 km
Discover Belfast’s Victorian botanical gem with stunning glasshouses, vibrant gardens, and rich cultural heritage in a serene 28-acre urban oasis.
The Palm House
3.2 km
Explore Belfast’s iconic Victorian Palm House, a stunning glass and iron botanical marvel nestled in the historic Botanic Gardens.
Museum of Orange Heritage - Free Admission
3.2 km
Discover the rich history and global heritage of the Orange Institution at Belfast’s Museum of Orange Heritage, located in historic Schomberg House.
George Best Statue
3.4 km
A life-size bronze tribute capturing George Best’s legendary football artistry, standing proud near Belfast’s Windsor Park stadium.
Ormeau Park
3.6 km
Belfast’s oldest municipal park blending historic charm with vibrant sports, nature, and cultural events in a sprawling urban green space.
Game of Thrones Tours
3.8 km
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Westeros with Game of Thrones Tours in Belfast, a must-visit for fans and nature lovers alike.
McCombs Coaches
3.8 km
Comfortable and engaging coach tours from Belfast to Northern Ireland’s iconic sights, including the Giant’s Causeway and historic castles.
Giants Causeway Tour
3.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and legendary charm of the Giant's Causeway on a guided tour from Belfast, a remarkable natural wonder not to be missed.
George Best Mural
3.9 km
Celebrate the legacy of Belfast’s football icon with the vibrant George Best Mural, a cultural landmark honoring local pride and sporting greatness.
The Stroud Street Murals
3.9 km
Explore Belfast’s Stroud Street Murals—an open-air gallery celebrating punk heritage, urban wildlife, and creative innovation on vibrant Victorian walls.
Milltown Cemetery
4.0 km
Discover Belfast’s Milltown Cemetery, a profound site of history, memory, and community rooted in Catholic heritage and the Troubles.
Essential places to dine
Hendrix Restaurant| Belfast
2.6 km
Modern fusion dining with Italian-Mexican flair, creative cocktails, and theatrical open kitchen on South Belfast's cultural corridor.
Blank Restaurant
2.8 km
Discover a rare Irish dining experience with creative dishes and exceptional service in Belfast’s charming Malone Road district.
Shu Restaurant Belfast
3.1 km
Experience refined modern French cuisine with Irish influences in Belfast’s stylish Shu Restaurant and lively Juls Bar.
Deanes at Queens
3.2 km
Experience modern European cuisine with Michelin-recognized quality in Belfast’s vibrant University Quarter, overlooking picturesque College Gardens.
Molly's Yard
3.4 km
Discover modern Irish cuisine in a charming 19th-century stable block with cozy indoor dining and a peaceful courtyard in Belfast’s Queen’s Quarter.
A Peculiar Tea
3.5 km
Where afternoon tea becomes a story-driven escape into imagination and culinary wonder.
Holohan's Pantry
3.5 km
Authentic Irish flavors with a contemporary twist in Belfast’s vibrant University Road dining scene.
Villa Italia
3.5 km
A beloved Belfast institution serving authentic Italian stone-baked pizzas and classic pasta dishes in a warm Georgian setting.
Scalini
3.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy ambiance at Scalini, a beloved Italian restaurant on Belfast’s vibrant Botanic Avenue.
Darcy's Belfast
3.8 km
A warm, family-run bistro serving hearty traditional Irish dishes with local ingredients in a cozy Belfast setting.
Causeway Cafe
3.8 km
Discover authentic Irish flavors at Causeway Cafe in Belfast—your cozy retreat for delicious meals and warm hospitality.
The Teal Monkey
4.0 km
A lively modern European restaurant in Belfast blending quirky decor, fresh flavors, and live music for a memorable dining experience.
The Ginger Bistro
4.3 km
Vibrant modern European bistro celebrating local produce and exceptional hospitality in Belfast's city centre.
Hope Street Restaurant Belfast
4.3 km
Fresh Northern Irish cuisine in an intimate Belfast setting, perfectly positioned for pre-theatre dining and special occasions.
Zen
4.4 km
Stylish Asian fusion dining in Belfast’s city centre, with creative sushi, bold flavours, and a sleek, modern interior.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Emporio
2.6 km
Discover timeless elegance and bespoke designer womenswear at Emporio, Belfast’s trusted boutique for over 30 years.
Deja Vu
2.8 km
Discover Belfast’s premier boutique for exquisite pre-loved designer fashion and exceptional personal service on Lisburn Road.
The Yard Shop - Furniture & Accessories
2.9 km
Discover Belfast’s charming Yard Shop, a treasure trove of antique and rustic furniture and home accessories that bring character to any space.
Olive & Rose Apparels
3.6 km
Explore the latest fashion trends at Olive & Rose Apparels, a stylish boutique in the heart of Belfast, offering unique clothing for every occasion.
Noor Bazaar
3.9 km
Discover handcrafted wonders and local souvenirs at Noor Bazaar, south Belfast's treasure trove on vibrant Sandy Row.
The Kennedy Centre
4.0 km
A lively shopping and entertainment hub in West Belfast, blending community spirit with diverse retail and leisure options.
Great Northern Mall
4.4 km
Belfast's essential retail passage where shopping meets urban culture and community connection.
Esik Creations
4.6 km
Explore Esik Creations in Belfast, where local artistry meets unique gifts for every occasion, perfect for tourists seeking authentic souvenirs.
Norn Irish Gift Shop
4.6 km
Locally crafted gifts celebrating Northern Irish creativity and cultural character
Carrolls Irish Gifts Belfast - Donegall Place
4.8 km
Discover authentic Irish culture and unique souvenirs at Carrolls Irish Gifts, a vibrant shop in Belfast’s bustling Donegall Place.
Mooch Belfast - Arthur Street
4.8 km
Discover Belfast's creative heart at Mooch: unique local crafts, handmade treasures, and artisan gifts that bring Northern Ireland home with you.
Alchemy and Ashes NI
4.8 km
A west Belfast haven for crystals, tarot, alternative fashion, and esoteric gifts in a moody, intimate setting.
AllSaints
4.8 km
Discover edgy, contemporary fashion and premium leather goods at AllSaints Belfast in Victoria Square, a stylish destination for modern wardrobe essentials.
Little Heart
4.8 km
Discover heartfelt wire art and whimsical keepsakes in Belfast's sole Victorian arcade—a boutique gem blending heritage charm with personal creativity.
New Look
4.8 km
Contemporary fashion retail in Belfast's premier shopping destination with extended hours and convenient services.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cutters Wharf
2.0 km
A stylish riverside bar and restaurant in Belfast blending modern European cuisine with lively entertainment and scenic river views.
Parador Lodge
2.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Parador Lodge, Belfast's charming pub destination.
Hatfield House
3.5 km
Historic Irish pub on Belfast’s Ormeau Road blending vintage charm, hearty food, live music, and a warm, lively atmosphere.
The Woodworkers
3.8 km
Belfast's top rotating tap room: craft beers on rotation, timber warmth, board games, and platters in Queen's Quarter's lively heart.
Lavery's
3.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lavery's, Belfast's premier pub and comedy club, where great food, drinks, and entertainment await.
The Points
4.1 km
A warm, old-school Dublin Road pub with regular live music, a glowing log fire and an unpretentious atmosphere for evening sessions.
Filthy McNastys
4.1 km
Filthy McNastys: The Heart of Belfast's Nightlife with Live Music, Great Drinks, and Unforgettable Experiences Awaiting You.
Limelight Lounge
4.3 km
Discover the excitement of live music and vibrant nightlife at Limelight Lounge, Belfast's premier bar for entertainment and good vibes.
Pug Uglys
4.3 km
Belfast's go-to pub for gastropub grub, live gigs, comedy laughs, and sports cheers in a quirky, buzzing venue.
The Perch Rooftop Bar
4.5 km
Discover The Perch Rooftop Bar in Belfast: a vibrant cocktail bar with stunning views, premium drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
The Broken shaker Belfast
4.6 km
A vibrant Caribbean-inspired cocktail bar in Belfast’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively late-night energy.
Margot
4.6 km
Discover Margot, a lively cocktail bar in Belfast, renowned for its crafted cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and live music performances.
The Garrick
4.7 km
Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
Revolución de Cuba Belfast
4.8 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with Cuban cocktails, tapas, live salsa, and a stunning Art Nouveau setting in the heart of Belfast.
Bittles Bar
4.9 km
Discover Belfast’s iconic flatiron-shaped pub, Bittles Bar, where rich Irish culture, history, and a curated whiskey selection blend in a cozy, historic setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Scratch Nightclub
3.7 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Alibi
3.8 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Club Honey
4.5 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Thompsons Garage
4.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Cabaret Supper Club
4.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Voodoo
4.9 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Ollie's Belfast
5.2 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Club Lux
5.3 km
Dive into Belfast's vibrant nightlife at Club Lux, the ultimate disco club and bar experience with electrifying music and great company.
Craics Ninety
5.3 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Shoe Factory
5.4 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Kremlin
5.5 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
The Art Department
5.5 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Anthology Ni
5.5 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Boombox Belfast
5.5 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Saturday Night Nightclub
15.3 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Newtownards nightlife at Saturday Night Nightclub, where music, dancing, and social energy come alive.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
