Glenariff Waterfalls & Forest Park - Ballymena

Glenariff Waterfalls & Forest Park: A Natural Wonderland

Glenariff Waterfalls & Forest Park offers visitors an exceptional experience immersed in the breathtaking beauty of Northern Ireland. Located in Ballymena, County Antrim, this national forest is a popular tourist attraction, renowned for its stunning waterfalls, lush scenery, and diverse walking trails. The park presents a captivating blend of natural wonders and recreational opportunities, making it an ideal destination for families, hikers, and nature enthusiasts alike.

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Location and Accessibility

The park’s address is Address: Ballymena BT44 0QX, United Kingdom. It’s easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. A wheelchair-accessible car park is provided, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can enjoy the park’s beauty. Furthermore, the park benefits from its proximity to Ballymena, a vibrant town offering a range of amenities and accommodation options. Visitors can find detailed directions and maps on the official website: nidirect.gov.uk. The phone number for inquiries is Phone: 7936077946.

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Key Features and Attractions

Glenariff’s primary draw is undoubtedly its magnificent waterfalls. The cascading waters create a dramatic and picturesque scene. The park is characterized by a network of trails catering to various fitness levels and interests. The most popular route, the Waterfall Trail, is approximately 3 kilometers long and offers spectacular views. This trail is particularly well-suited for those seeking a moderate hike, with a significant downhill section leading to the waterfalls and boardwalks. However, the return journey involves a challenging uphill climb, requiring a reasonable level of fitness.

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• Waterfall Trail: Approximately 3km, primarily downhill to the waterfalls and boardwalks.
• Boardwalks: Provide safe and accessible access to the lower waterfalls.
• Diverse Trails: Options for shorter, family-friendly hikes are available.
• Lush Forest: Offers a serene and immersive natural environment.

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Activities and Points of Interest

Beyond the waterfalls, Glenariff offers a variety of activities. Hiking is a central attraction, with trails suitable for all skill levels. The park is particularly enjoyable for families with children, offering kid-friendly hikes and a safe, engaging environment. Visitors can explore the forest, observe local wildlife, and simply enjoy the tranquility of nature. The park’s serene atmosphere and stunning scenery make it a fantastic place for picnics and outdoor relaxation.

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Visitor Information and Reviews

The park consistently receives positive feedback from visitors. Currently, it boasts 47 reviews on Google My Business, with an average opinion of 4.8/5. This high rating reflects the park’s exceptional beauty, well-maintained trails, and welcoming atmosphere. Many visitors highlight the rewarding experience of completing the Waterfall Trail, emphasizing the visual spectacle of the falls and the scenic boardwalks. It’s advisable to plan your visit considering the weather, as the experience can vary depending on conditions. While the trail is beautiful in sunny weather, it may be more challenging during wet or windy conditions. The clockwise direction on the trail is generally recommended, particularly for those less experienced with uphill climbs.

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Recommended Information for Visitors

To ensure an enjoyable visit to Glenariff Waterfalls & Forest Park, we recommend the following:

• Wear appropriate footwear: Sturdy hiking boots are recommended, especially for the Waterfall Trail.
• Check the weather forecast: Conditions can change rapidly in the forest.
• Bring water and snacks: Especially for longer hikes.
• Allow ample time: To explore the park’s trails and attractions at a comfortable pace.
• Respect the environment: Leave no trace and adhere to park regulations.

Glenariff Waterfalls & Forest Park stands as a testament to the natural beauty of Northern Ireland. With its accessible facilities, diverse trails, and stunning waterfalls, it’s a destination that promises a memorable experience for visitors of all ages and abilities. The park’s popularity is a clear indicator of its appeal, and a visit is highly recommended for anyone seeking a connection with nature and a dose of breathtaking scenery. The park’s dedication to accessibility ensures that everyone can enjoy this remarkable natural treasure.

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👍 Reviews of Glenariff Waterfalls & Forest Park

Chris K.

5/5

This is a really beautiful place to visit. The views are amazing and there are several trails to pick from. We did the waterfall trail and it was brilliant although it was a dry, hot and sunny day when we went...might have been different in the wet. It's best to go clockwise on the trail as it's mostly downhill at the start and to the waterfalls and boardwalks . Coming back though is all uphill and we passed a few elderly people struggling, it's about 3km in all.

Daniel W.

5/5

Amazing views! Very reasonably priced, only 5£ to park for the day. The signage/maps were a little bit lacking but you can figure it out.

AnanD J.

4/5

Many things to be considered before going there. Weather is important as it might be difficult to walk when rains heavily. But walking in the rain is I found amazing here. There are a couple of different trails like viewpoints, waterfall and rainbow trails. Details have been mentioned in the information board near car park. Car parking is chargeable at £5 per car and cards can be used. Car park closes at 5pm.
There is a coffee shop and toilet near car park. Coffee shop opening times are unknown.
Better be dressed suitably as most of the places are wet and moist. The waterfalls are beautiful and well maintained. Near to the waterfall there is a cafe with bar. The location is breathtaking. The hike I found moderately difficult depends on the pace you walk. Lack of toilets on the trail seems to be a bit difficult.

saurep

5/5

Well spend day walking through beautiful location and scenery! Spacious car park , restrooms, restaurant and picnic area! 5£ entrance per car, gates closes at 9pm. Well kept. In my opinion needs build more bins & benches. After long distance needs somewhere a rest.

tom B.

5/5

I have been on lots of walks in Ireland. This is the best so far. The views over to Scotland are stunning. The glen is magnificent and the waterfall is very impressive. The broadwalk is excellent. There is a cafe, a pub, very clean toilets and a huge picnic area. 10 out of 10.

Am R.

5/5

Had a good day and enjoy walking 🚶

Stuart M.

5/5

Simply amazing walk. You'll need some fitness mind. Just go visit, you won't be sorry (I visited in winter)

Dave M. (. D.

5/5

Lovely place to walk around and explore on a nice sunny day.