There is something so freeing about getting out into the fresh air with your family. And, when the sun shines in Northern Ireland, a park can be one of the most beautiful places to explore. Take a look at our list of top NI parks to visit this summer and get inspiration for your next family adventure.
The Best Family Parks to Explore with the Family
The second largest park in Ireland, Lurgan Park makes the perfect place to spend a weekend of exploring with the family. A walk along the trail around Brownlow House is an amazing way to see swans, cape geese, deer and hares.
This stunning park in the vibrant South Belfast area is home to the International Rose Garden which brings many tourists to the park in July for Rose Week. A brilliant place to have a barbecue amongst the rolling meadows and gardens.
A walk in Tollymore Forest Park is a feast for the eyes with its scaling trees and beautiful walkways. Along the way look out for caves, rivers and amazing natural highlights. Your kids will love jumping on the stepping stones over the Shimna River – a real life adventure! Settle down for a picnic and an ice-cream when your legs get tired.
This ancient woodland is made up of many marked trails leading to the Bann river. The beautiful forest park is lined with wildflowers along the walkaways, including orchids, primroses and wild garlic. Pack a picnic and soak up the surroundings with the family.
This stunning country park has the added benefit of being beside the coast. This gorgeous park offers walks by the sea as well as peaceful meadows and plenty of spots to sit along the way. Kids will love the natural play area and spotting the different wildlife in the park. Finish your day with a scone and a cup of tea in the Visitor Centre for some refuelling after your walk.
Located in the heart of the Belfast Hills, Colin Glen Forest Park offers beautiful woodland walks and amazing outdoor activities for the whole family. You will feel far away from city life in this park where you can go kayaking, ziplining or even aqua zorbing! The Gruffalo Trail is also a favourite for little ones looking to meet their favourite characters.
Carnfunnock Country Park is made for a fun family day out! The maze in the shape of Northern Ireland is a highlight along with the remote-control boats and miniature railway. Don’t miss the Teddy Bear’s Annual Big Day Out at the park over the August Bank Holiday weekend.
This untouched rural landscape of beautiful forest has excellent walking and mountain biking trails just outside of Cookstown, among the Sperrin Mountains. Keep an eye out for sika deer along the trails of this hidden gem.
Do you have a favourite park to visit with the family?
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