Lagan Towpath: Scenic Riverside Walk from Belfast to Lisburn
An 11-mile riverside trail blending historic canal heritage with tranquil natural beauty between Belfast and Lisburn.
The Lagan Towpath is an 11-mile (17 km) off-road trail following the River Lagan and historic canal from Belfast to Lisburn. It winds through wetlands, riverside meadows, and mixed woodlands, offering peaceful walking and cycling routes along quiet tarmac and gravel paths. Rich in wildlife and heritage, the towpath features restored locks, old bridges, and links to parks and forests, making it a popular natural escape close to urban centers.
A brief summary to Lagan Towpath
- Unnamed Road, Lisburn, Lisburn, BT27 4RQ, GB
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as the towpath is mostly tarmacked but can be long for casual walkers.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; kingfishers and herons are common sights.
- Stop at the Lock Keepers Inn near Lisburn for refreshments with a riverside view.
- Combine your walk with visits to nearby parks like Belvoir Park Forest or Malone House grounds.
- Check for any maintenance closures, especially during late autumn and winter months.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
From Belfast, take a train to Lisburn Station, with a journey time of approximately 20-25 minutes. Lisburn Station is about a 15-minute walk from the Union Locks access point on the towpath. Trains run frequently with fares around £5-£8 one way.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve Hillsborough Road and Blaris Road near Lisburn, providing access to the towpath’s Union Locks entrance. Bus journeys from Belfast take 30-40 minutes, with fares typically between £4-£6. Services run regularly but check schedules for evenings and weekends.
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Car
Driving from Belfast to Lisburn via the M1 motorway takes about 20 minutes depending on traffic. Parking is available near Union Locks and at Drumbridge car park. Note that some sections of the towpath are car-free, so park before entering the trail.
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Cycling
The towpath is part of the National Cycle Network and offers a continuous off-road route between Belfast and Lisburn. Cycling time between the cities is approximately 1-1.5 hours at a moderate pace. Paths are mostly tarmac and suitable for all levels.
Lagan Towpath location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Lagan Towpath
A Journey Along the Historic Lagan Canal
The Lagan Towpath traces the route of the historic Lagan Canal, originally constructed in the 18th century to connect Belfast with Lisburn and beyond to Lough Neagh. This 11-mile stretch follows the river and canal system, where many original features such as locks, lock-keepers’ cottages, and bridges remain visible. The canal once carried lighters—flat-bottomed boats used for transporting goods like coal and timber—offering a glimpse into Northern Ireland’s industrial past. Today, the towpath preserves this heritage while providing a serene corridor for walkers and cyclists.Natural Beauty and Wildlife Habitat
The towpath passes through a diverse landscape including wetlands, riverside meadows, and mixed woodland. It is part of the Lagan Valley Regional Park, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where visitors can spot kingfishers, herons, otters, and a variety of other wildlife. The route’s quiet surfaced paths and tranquil waterside setting make it a favored spot for nature lovers seeking peaceful outdoor experiences close to the city.Access Points and Connections to Local Parks
Accessible from multiple locations including Lisburn’s Union Locks and Belfast’s Stranmillis area, the towpath connects to nearby green spaces such as Belvoir Park Forest and Malone House grounds. These adjoining parks offer additional walking trails, picnic areas, and historic gardens. The path also intersects with the National Cycle Network, making it a key route for cyclists exploring the region.Architectural and Cultural Highlights
Along the towpath, historic structures such as Shaw’s Bridge, rebuilt in 1709, and restored lock houses punctuate the landscape. The route passes through areas with rich cultural stories, including the grounds of Malone House, once home to notable Belfast merchants. Nearby, the Lock Keepers Inn provides a riverside spot for refreshments, blending heritage with modern leisure.Recreational Opportunities and Visitor Experience
The Lagan Towpath offers easy walking and cycling on well-maintained, mostly tarmacked paths suitable for all ages and abilities. It is a peaceful retreat for day trips, photowalks, and nature escapes. The towpath’s integration into the Ulster Way and National Cycle Network further enhances its appeal for longer adventures and weekend getaways.Conservation and Community Engagement
Managed partly by the Department for Infrastructure and local authorities, the towpath benefits from ongoing maintenance and restoration projects to preserve its natural and historic assets. Community involvement and partnerships with organizations like Lagan Valley Regional Park ensure the towpath remains a sustainable and cherished resource for both locals and visitors.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Falls Rd
9.9 km
Political murals, peace walls, and powerful stories of resilience in West Belfast's iconic Republican heartland.
Visit West Belfast
10.1 km
Your gateway to the vibrant culture, history, and community of West Belfast on the iconic Falls Road.
Lord Kelvin Statue
10.1 km
Celebrate the legacy of Belfast’s own Lord Kelvin with this striking bronze statue set in the historic Botanic Gardens.
Shaftesbury Square
10.8 km
A historic and bustling junction in Belfast where Victorian heritage meets vibrant modern city life.
Belfast Peace Lines
11.1 km
Where a single night in 1969 ignited decades of conflict and left scars still visible today.
Peace Wall Belfast
11.1 km
A barrier transformed into a canvas of hope—Belfast's Peace Wall tells stories of division, resilience, and the ongoing journey toward reconciliation.
Frederick Temple Memorial
11.6 km
A striking bronze tribute to Lord Dufferin, reflecting Belfast’s imperial heritage and the legacy of a renowned British diplomat.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
11.6 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Belfast City Hall Tours
11.6 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
11.6 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
11.6 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
11.6 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
11.6 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.
The Back Of Boots
11.6 km
Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
11.6 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Giant's Ring
6.3 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.
Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
6.5 km
Explore Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, Northern Ireland’s Georgian royal residence set within 100 acres of stunning historic gardens and nature.
National Trust - Minnowburn
6.6 km
Discover Minnowburn’s peaceful woodlands and riverside trails, a natural sanctuary just outside Belfast with rich wildlife and scenic valley views.
Colin Glen Mountain Entrance
6.9 km
Experience Ireland’s first Alpine Coaster and longest zipline in the scenic Belfast Hills at Colin Glen Mountain Entrance.
The Belvoir Oak
8.0 km
Discover the ancient majesty of Northern Ireland’s oldest oak, a serene natural monument nestled in Belfast’s Belvoir Park Forest.
Milltown Cemetery
8.8 km
Discover Belfast’s Milltown Cemetery, a profound site of history, memory, and community rooted in Catholic heritage and the Troubles.
George Best Statue
9.4 km
A life-size bronze tribute capturing George Best’s legendary football artistry, standing proud near Belfast’s Windsor Park stadium.
National Trust - Divis and the Black Mountain
9.8 km
Explore Belfast’s breathtaking hills with scenic trails, rich wildlife, and panoramic views at Divis and the Black Mountain.
Rise Sculpture
9.9 km
Belfast’s towering steel sculpture symbolizing hope, unity, and a new dawn for the city’s future.
Forestside Shopping Centre
9.9 km
A comprehensive suburban shopping centre in Belfast offering diverse stores, dining, and excellent parking facilities for a convenient retail experience.
Hinch Distillery
10.0 km
Discover award-winning Irish whiskey and immersive tours at Hinch Distillery, nestled in the scenic heart of County Down’s countryside.
Ulster Museum
10.1 km
Explore the Ulster Museum, a stunning fusion of art, history, and natural beauty in the heart of Belfast's Botanic Gardens.
Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich
10.1 km
Explore Irish culture at Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich in Belfast, a vibrant center for arts, language, and community engagement.
Botanic Gardens
10.2 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
10.3 km
Explore Belfast’s iconic Victorian Palm House, a stunning glass and iron botanical marvel nestled in the historic Botanic Gardens.
Essential places to dine
Del Toro
1.2 km
Experience mouthwatering steaks and a welcoming atmosphere at Del Toro in Lisburn – where every bite tells a story.
Hunting Lodge Bar & Restaurant
6.9 km
Discover Belfast's charm at The Hunting Lodge Bar & Restaurant - where traditional pub vibes meet exquisite dining experiences.
Shu Restaurant Belfast
9.5 km
Experience refined modern French cuisine with Irish influences in Belfast’s stylish Shu Restaurant and lively Juls Bar.
Blank Restaurant
9.8 km
Discover a rare Irish dining experience with creative dishes and exceptional service in Belfast’s charming Malone Road district.
Hendrix Restaurant| Belfast
9.9 km
Modern fusion dining with Italian-Mexican flair, creative cocktails, and theatrical open kitchen on South Belfast's cultural corridor.
Deanes at Queens
10.1 km
Experience modern European cuisine with Michelin-recognized quality in Belfast’s vibrant University Quarter, overlooking picturesque College Gardens.
Holohan's Pantry
10.4 km
Authentic Irish flavors with a contemporary twist in Belfast’s vibrant University Road dining scene.
A Peculiar Tea
10.4 km
Where afternoon tea becomes a story-driven escape into imagination and culinary wonder.
Villa Italia
10.4 km
A beloved Belfast institution serving authentic Italian stone-baked pizzas and classic pasta dishes in a warm Georgian setting.
Molly's Yard
10.5 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.
Scalini
10.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy ambiance at Scalini, a beloved Italian restaurant on Belfast’s vibrant Botanic Avenue.
Causeway Cafe
10.7 km
Discover authentic Irish flavors at Causeway Cafe in Belfast—your cozy retreat for delicious meals and warm hospitality.
Darcy's Belfast
10.7 km
A warm, family-run bistro serving hearty traditional Irish dishes with local ingredients in a cozy Belfast setting.
The Teal Monkey
10.9 km
A lively modern European restaurant in Belfast blending quirky decor, fresh flavors, and live music for a memorable dining experience.
The Ginger Bistro
11.1 km
Vibrant modern European bistro celebrating local produce and exceptional hospitality in Belfast's city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rosies Emporium
1.1 km
A colourful gift and homewares shop in Lisburn’s Bow Street Mall, perfect for unique presents, baby items, and stylish accessories.
Emporio
8.3 km
Discover timeless elegance and bespoke designer womenswear at Emporio, Belfast’s trusted boutique for over 30 years.
The Kennedy Centre
8.6 km
A lively shopping and entertainment hub in West Belfast, blending community spirit with diverse retail and leisure options.
Deja Vu
9.1 km
Discover Belfast’s premier boutique for exquisite pre-loved designer fashion and exceptional personal service on Lisburn Road.
The Yard Shop - Furniture & Accessories
10.5 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
10.6 km
Explore the latest fashion trends at Olive & Rose Apparels, a stylish boutique in the heart of Belfast, offering unique clothing for every occasion.
Alchemy and Ashes NI
10.7 km
A west Belfast haven for crystals, tarot, alternative fashion, and esoteric gifts in a moody, intimate setting.
Noor Bazaar
10.7 km
Discover handcrafted wonders and local souvenirs at Noor Bazaar, south Belfast's treasure trove on vibrant Sandy Row.
Great Northern Mall
11.2 km
Belfast's essential retail passage where shopping meets urban culture and community connection.
Norn Irish Gift Shop
11.6 km
Explore the heart of Irish culture at Norn Irish Gift Shop in Belfast, where unique souvenirs and artisan crafts await every traveler.
Carrolls Irish Gifts Belfast - Donegall Place
11.7 km
Discover authentic Irish culture and unique souvenirs at Carrolls Irish Gifts, a vibrant shop in Belfast’s bustling Donegall Place.
Little Heart
11.7 km
Discover heartfelt wire art and whimsical keepsakes in Belfast's sole Victorian arcade—a boutique gem blending heritage charm with personal creativity.
Montblanc Boutique Belfast
11.7 km
German luxury craftsmanship in Belfast's Victorian arcade—where timeless elegance meets artisanal mastery.
The Holy Shop
11.8 km
Belfast's cherished repository of rosaries, christening gifts, and spiritual treasures beside the city's mother church on historic Chapel Lane.
Mooch Belfast - Arthur Street
11.8 km
Discover Belfast's creative heart at Mooch: unique local crafts, handmade treasures, and artisan gifts that bring Northern Ireland home with you.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cutters Wharf
9.5 km
A stylish riverside bar and restaurant in Belfast blending modern European cuisine with lively entertainment and scenic river views.
Parador Lodge
10.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Parador Lodge, Belfast's charming pub destination.
The Woodworkers
10.7 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
10.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lavery's, Belfast's premier pub and comedy club, where great food, drinks, and entertainment await.
Hatfield House
10.9 km
Historic Irish pub on Belfast’s Ormeau Road blending vintage charm, hearty food, live music, and a warm, lively atmosphere.
The Points
11.0 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
11.1 km
Filthy McNastys: The Heart of Belfast's Nightlife with Live Music, Great Drinks, and Unforgettable Experiences Awaiting You.
Pug Uglys
11.3 km
Belfast's go-to pub for gastropub grub, live gigs, comedy laughs, and sports cheers in a quirky, buzzing venue.
Limelight Lounge
11.3 km
Discover the excitement of live music and vibrant nightlife at Limelight Lounge, Belfast's premier bar for entertainment and good vibes.
The Perch Rooftop Bar
11.4 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
11.5 km
A vibrant Caribbean-inspired cocktail bar in Belfast’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively late-night energy.
Margot
11.6 km
Discover Margot, a lively cocktail bar in Belfast, renowned for its crafted cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and live music performances.
Nancy Mulligans Bar & Kitchen
11.7 km
A lively Belfast gastropub blending traditional Irish hospitality with live music, hearty food, and spirited sports viewing.
Maddens
11.8 km
Discover the authentic charm of Maddens, a traditional Irish pub in Belfast known for its welcoming atmosphere and delightful local brews.
The Garrick
11.8 km
Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Honey
10.2 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Scratch Nightclub
10.7 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Alibi
10.7 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Thompsons Garage
11.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Voodoo
11.7 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Cabaret Supper Club
11.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Ollie's Belfast
12.2 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
The Art Department
12.2 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Shoe Factory
12.2 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Kremlin
12.2 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Anthology Ni
12.2 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Boombox Belfast
12.2 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Club Lux
12.3 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
12.3 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
The Causeway Lounge
20.4 km
Experience tranquility and comfort at The Causeway Lounge, your perfect pre-flight retreat at Belfast Airport.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
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
