National Trust - Divis and the Black Mountain, Belfast
Explore Belfast’s breathtaking hills with scenic trails, rich wildlife, and panoramic views at Divis and the Black Mountain.
Divis and the Black Mountain, managed by the National Trust, is a striking natural area on the outskirts of Belfast featuring rugged hills, open heathland, and panoramic views. It offers several walking trails of varying difficulty, including a popular 3-mile summit trail to Divis Mountain’s peak. The site is rich in wildlife, archaeological remains, and unique ecosystems, with cattle grazing helping maintain its biodiversity. Visitors can enjoy scenic vistas stretching to the Mourne Mountains, Lough Neagh, and beyond.
A brief summary to National Trust - Divis and the Black Mountain
- Divis Road Hannahstown, Belfast, BT17 0NG, GB
- +442890825434
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear suitable for uneven, sometimes muddy trails, especially on the summit route.
- Visit the Divis Barn café for refreshments before or after your walk.
- Keep dogs on leads to protect local wildlife and grazing cattle.
- Stick to marked paths to help preserve delicate habitats and avoid disturbing protected species.
- Check seasonal opening times for the Upper Car Park and café before planning your visit.
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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Bus
Ulsterbus service 106 runs from Belfast Europa Bus Station to Hannahstown, with a stop near Divis Road. The journey takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes. Services operate regularly but check schedules for weekend variations. A single fare costs around £3.
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Car
Driving from central Belfast, take the M1 motorway to Junction 2, then follow the A55 Outer Ring to Divis Road. The Lower Car Park is open from dusk to dawn with free parking; the Upper Car Park has seasonal hours. Note that some roads may be narrow and parking limited during peak times.
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Cycling
Cyclists can access Divis and the Black Mountain via Divis Road. The terrain includes tarmac and stony paths; cyclists are advised to stay on designated routes and be cautious of pedestrians and livestock.
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Walking
For those staying nearby, walking to Divis and the Black Mountain is possible via well-marked trails. Expect uneven terrain and some steep sections, so suitable footwear and moderate fitness are recommended. Walking times vary depending on starting point but generally range from 30 minutes to over an hour.
National Trust - Divis and the Black Mountain 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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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about National Trust - Divis and the Black Mountain
A Majestic Natural Landscape Overlooking Belfast
Divis and the Black Mountain form a dramatic backdrop to Belfast, rising prominently within the Belfast Hills. Divis Mountain reaches 478 metres (1,562 feet), making it the highest peak in the area, while Black Mountain stands at 390 metres (1,275 feet). These hills offer sweeping panoramic views that on clear days extend to the Mourne Mountains, Lough Neagh, the Antrim Plateau, and even parts of Scotland and Cumbria. The area’s elevated vantage points provide some of Northern Ireland’s most spectacular scenery.Trails and Walking Experiences for All Levels
The site features a variety of walking routes catering to different abilities and interests. The 3-mile (4.8 km) Summit Trail leads visitors along the historic Tipperary Road through open heath and blanket bog to Divis Mountain’s summit, rewarding walkers with breathtaking views. More moderate options include a 4.2-mile circular route offering 180-degree vistas across Belfast and surrounding landscapes, and a gentle 0.9-mile flat walk ideal for a quick nature escape. Trails vary from stony and stepped paths to tarmac roadways, requiring appropriate footwear and some fitness for the more challenging routes.Rich Biodiversity and Conservation Efforts
Divis and the Black Mountain are a mosaic of grassland and heathland bog habitats, supporting a diverse range of flora and fauna. Priority species such as meadow pipits, stonechats, skylarks, and Irish hares can be spotted here, alongside birds of prey like kestrels and ravens. Grazing cattle, managed by experienced tenant farmers, play a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance by controlling vegetation growth. Visitors are encouraged to stick to designated paths to protect sensitive habitats and wildlife.Historical and Archaeological Significance
The area is steeped in history, with archaeological remains including a Bronze Age homestead and evidence of past military use as a rifle range during World War II. The summit of Divis Mountain features a trigonometry pillar, notable as the first point used in the mapping of Ireland in 1825. These historical elements add depth to the natural beauty, connecting visitors to the region’s cultural heritage.Visitor Amenities and Facilities
Facilities include two car parks—Lower Car Park on Divis Road, open from dusk to dawn, and Upper Car Park with seasonal hours. Accessible toilets with RADAR key access are available, as well as a café at Divis Barn offering hot drinks and refreshments. The site welcomes dogs on leads and promotes responsible visitor behavior to preserve the environment, including guidelines against disposable barbecues and littering.Engagement and Stewardship Opportunities
The National Trust encourages visitors to support conservation efforts through donations and volunteering opportunities. Educational signage and information boards help visitors understand the importance of preserving this unique landscape. The partnership with local farmers and conservationists ensures Divis and the Black Mountain remain a protected haven for nature and a cherished outdoor destination for generations to come.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Falls Rd
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Belfast Peace Lines
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Carlisle Circus
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Clifton Street Graveyard
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Shaftesbury Square
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Lord Kelvin Statue
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Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
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Mary Ann McCracken statue
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Shankill Graveyard
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Clonard Martyrs Memorial Garden
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Clonard Monastery
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Rise Sculpture
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Bobby Sands Mural
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George Best Statue
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Irish Republican History Museum
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Carnegie Oldpark
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St Peter's Cathedral
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Crumlin Road Gaol Visitor Attraction and Conference Centre
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George Best Mural
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Essential places to dine
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Shu Restaurant Belfast
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The Lantern Restaurant
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Causeway Cafe
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Howard Street
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Holohan's Pantry
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Blank Restaurant
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Villa Italia
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The Ginger Bistro
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EDO Restaurant
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A Peculiar Tea
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Hope Street Restaurant Belfast
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Stix and Stones City Centre
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Bank Square Brasserie
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Emporio
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Deja Vu
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Noor Bazaar
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Great Northern Mall
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The Name Shops - Belfast
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The Holy Shop
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Top Gift
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Olive & Rose Apparels
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Norn Irish Gift Shop
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Little Heart
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Montblanc Boutique Belfast
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Carrolls Irish Gifts Belfast - Donegall Place
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Maddens
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Lavery's
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The Woodworkers
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Sunflower Public House
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The Perch Rooftop Bar
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Monico Bars
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Margot
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Alibi
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Scratch Nightclub
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The Causeway Lounge
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Adventurous
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
