Colin Glen Forest Park, covering 200 acres on the edge of Belfast, is known as Ireland's top adventure park, mixing beautiful natural surroundings with exciting activities. It's a place with two sides: an outdoor adventure playground and a space for exploring nature and local history. The Colin River runs through it, a river that once powered Belfast's linen mills (you can still see parts of the old mill race). The park's name comes from the Irish word for high ground (collan), fitting its location in the Belfast Hills. It acts as an important "green lung" for the city, offering walking and activities across its three main entrance areas: River, Leisure, and Mountain.
One of its big draws is Ireland's only official Gruffalo Trail, a fun walk for families based on the popular children's book, endorsed by the author Julia Donaldson. Kids can follow the story through the woods and get a certificate at the end. For thrill-seekers, there's the Black Bull Run (Northern Ireland's first Alpine Coaster) and the Forest Flyover (Ireland's longest zipline at 250 meters). The Mountain Entrance also has River Rapid, a super-fast zipline launching from a 100-foot tower. Down at the River Entrance, you'll find SKYTrek high-ropes courses and archery. The Leisure Entrance focuses on sports, featuring Northern Ireland's first TrackMan Driving Range and an indoor 3G Sports Dome for various ball games.
Visitors can choose their own pace, from peaceful strolls on wheelchair-friendly riverside paths to tougher hikes offering great views over Belfast towards the Mourne Mountains. Trails are colour-coded for difficulty. The park also caters to educational groups and corporate team-building days, and the Forest Park Centre hosts talks and activities. You can even find fossils of ancient sea creatures in a specific geological bed here. Remnants like the old Gamekeeper's Bridge toll site add touches of history.
Colin Glen is open all year and offers something for everyone. Spring and autumn bring colourful wildflowers or foliage, while summer is popular for the Gruffalo Trail and adventure activities. Evening sessions and Sunday openings make it accessible. Beyond the main attractions, it's a venue for parties, school trips, and corporate events, with a focus on being welcoming and accessible. Whether you're after adventure, history, or just a walk in the woods, Colin Glen provides a fantastic escape right next to the city.
Getting There
Nearest Airports
The closest airports are Belfast International Airport (22km/14 miles) and George Best Belfast City Airport (12km/7.5 miles) for those traveling to Belfast. Dublin Airport (100km/62 miles) serves visitors arriving from further afield.
By Car
- From Belfast City Centre: Take the M1 Motorway (towards Dublin) and exit at Junction 3 (Dunmurry/Finaghy A1). Follow signs for Blacks Road, proceeding through traffic lights. The park will be on your right as you climb the hill. Distance: 5.4 miles (8.7km).
- From Dublin: Follow the M1 Motorway towards Belfast. Exit at Junction 2 after passing Lisburn/Sprucefield. Turn left onto Kennedy Way, then right at the next roundabout onto Andersonstown Road. Continue 3 miles (5km) past Woodbourne Police Station, and the park will appear on your right. Distance: 100 miles (160km).
- From Lisburn: Head toward Belfast via the Queensway Roundabout, following brown tourist signs to the park.
By Public Transport
- Bus: Multiple Translink Metro routes serve the park:
- Routes 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E, 10F, G & H stop directly outside the park gates.
- The River Entrance is also accessible via the "Glider" route (a local service).
- Train: The nearest stations are Lambeg, Dunmurry, and Finaghy (all within 5km/3 miles). From there, buses or a short taxi ride will connect you to the park.
Local Transport Notes
Buses terminate at the park gates, with easy access to all three entrances (River, Mountain, and Leisure). Walking trails begin immediately from the drop-off points.
Parking
On-Site Parking:
The primary parking is available at the Colin Glen Centre car park, accessed via Stewartstown Road. This lot is signposted and offers convenient access to the forest trails and amenities. A nominal fee applies at the Mountain Entrance, while free parking is available at the Colin Glen Trust building and the Stewartstown Road (River Entrance). The main car park is a short walk from the park's main entrance, with trails beginning directly from the parking area.
Parking Fees & Payment:
- On-site fees: A small charge is in place at the Mountain Entrance, though exact rates are not specified. Credit/debit cards (including Visa, Visa Debit, and MasterCard) and Euros are accepted here.
- Reservable parking: Over 558 spaces are available through JustPark, with hourly rates starting at £1.10 and daily rates from £3.80. Payment is processed via the JustPark website or app.
Time Restrictions:
- On-street parking near the park may be available before 8:00 AM or after 6:00 PM, though spaces are limited and not guaranteed.
- The Colin Glen Centre car park operates during the Centre's opening hours, which should be confirmed in advance.
Accessibility:
Disabled parking spaces are available at the main car park, ensuring easy access to the park's facilities.
Peak-Time Alternatives:
During busy periods, secure your spot in advance using JustPark's reservable car parks or private driveways. Free parking at the Trust building or River Entrance can also serve as alternatives, though these areas may require a short walk to the main trails.
Distance to Entrance:
The Colin Glen Centre car park is immediately adjacent to the main entrance, while other free parking areas are within a 5-10 minute walk.
Always check for signage or seasonal changes, and note that Colin Glen Forest Park assumes no liability for vehicle damage in any parking area.
Pricing
Additional activities like SKYTrek aerial assault courses, laser tag, archery, the Black Bull Run challenge, Forest Flyover ziplines, River Rapid obstacle course, TrackMan golf facilities, and the 3G Sports Dome incur extra charges, though we don't have the latest pricing.
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