The phrase 'hidden gem' gets thrown about a lot these days but I must stress that Balloo Wetland is…read morewell worthy of that title! I grew up in these parts so my childhood was spent exploring the local greens and forests and this is one place that we used to frequent. Although back then it didn't have an official name and certainly wasn't protected by the Ulster Wildlife Trust. With all the building work going on it appears that a concerted effort has been made to preserve this area of natural beauty. The walk itself isn't the longest but it presents an oasis of greenery in an otherwise concrete jungle. Keep an eye out for the visitors signs that explain the different types of flowers you can expect to see. Also they have recently installed benches so you can take a break from your walk and breath in the splendor of nature!

Epic scenery and a rural setting make Gleno Park one of Northern Ireland's true hidden gems…read more Officially a National Trust Park Gleno is definitely a site of outstanding natural beauty. Although this is an National Trust Park there is not gated entrance or fee for entering the park. The car park is large and there and picnic tables. The walk itself isn't long, you can complete the country trail in under 30 minutes but be warned, it's a steep walk to the top of the Waterfall. Don't worry if you're not much of a walker though, the Waterfall can be seen after walking a few yards from the car park. There's a small bridge over the the river making a perfect place to stop for a photo. The park is really in the middle of nowhere - make sure you have your sat nav with you if you're visiting from Belfast (takes around 50 minutes). The park could definitely be improved, a few more picnic benches and lengthening the trail could make it more of a day trip. We walked in to Gleno village and there were signs that there used to be a cafe here, but sadly it's now closed! Four stars for now!

The Commons is anything but common, it is in fact a rarity, to have such public beauty and sports…read morefacilities so close to the sea is special. The Commons is a public park located on the Shore Road between Donaghadee and Millisle. Its facilities include two Astroturf tennis courts and a grass bowling green. These are accompanied by a clubhouse that overlooks the Irish Sea. As mentioned it is unusual to have such facilities on the waters edge. Serving Aces is not easy when the gusts fly in from the ocean. But in the sun the bowling green is packed with eager sports people urging the salt water to preserve their youth and it looks like it is working. The public park has scenic walkways and is suitable for a morning jog or a long stroll with mans best friend. The beach at the commons is a mix of sand and shale's, not really and ideal place to lay a beach towel but perfect for an amble. The Commons is glorious in the summer and equally spectacular when the winter waves thrash against the rocky coast. Beautifully maintained by the local council it really is something to be proud of.

Donaghadee Commons is a fantastic place to stroll and enjoy the beautiful coastline and the…read morepanoramic views across the Irish Sea. On a clear day and weather permitting it is quite easy to distinguish the Scottish Coast line with its rugged mountain range. The area is well maintained with walking areas suitable for all so that it is accessible for families with prams or for wheelchair users. Among its amenities is a play park for the young and Tennis courts and bowling club for enthusiasts. In the summer months it is a popular place for picnicking and all year round it is a pleasant place to take that blow the cobwebs away jaunt! There is access from the Millisle Road for vehicles with parking space and there are also parking bays and facilities for camper vans, which makes it an ideal place for tourists exploring the North Down Coast. This is a place close to my heart and anyone who has an affinity for the sea with it's ever changing moods will love a stroll along the commons.

We walked through the Botanical Gardens which are located adjacent to the university. As like…read moreeverything else in Ireland, the whole grounds were bright green and full of different plant species and lots and lots of flowers. I particularly liked their greenhouse. The beautiful white medal perfectly balanced the contrast between nature and industrial features while complementing the space and giving these particular plants a specific place to grow, such as succulents. The rose gardens reminded me of something from Alice in Wind with how the grass paths were weaved between the rose bushes and some of the flowers looked fake because they were so healthy and vibrant.  There are two newer greenhouses that were built specifically for tropical plants. Inside of each of these greenhouses, the temperature and humidity was set to stay at the perfect settings for these tropical plants to thrive. They were multiple stories so that the trees could grow tall and the vines could grow long and even go all the way up to the rafters. A great place to see and spend time on a sunny or partly cloudy day!!

Beautiful grounds near Queen's College in Belfast. So peaceful and sprawling. The grounds…read moremeticulously kept. The grounds included some magnificently lush green lawn for taking in the nice weather being experienced during our stay. The Ferris Wheel was well worth the nominal expense. The rose garden was beautifully laid out.

Great views from the top, waterfalls. and an old bear pit (A bear was kept by the land owner)…read more This is a great walk if you have dogs or just like forest walks.

IF you are up to it this place is a decent walk, it is hard work to get to the top, but once u get…read morethere the views are amazing, it also has some beautiful features like steps going down the side of a little stream that i like to call the babbling brook, a nice little bridge called emilys bridge and a little waterfall.this place is great in the good weather however i would not recommend it in the winter as the paths back down are very steep and can be treacherous when wet or icy.

This is a great walk on the outskirts of Belfast. It is well hidden from the Manse road entrance…read morebut don't be put off its worth the view! It takes roughly 30 - 40 mins to ascend depending on fitness level. The path leads from a quaint bridge along a stony lane running behind Lagan college. It has quite a steep incline half way through - really gets the heart pumping. The vista over Belfast and the lough are breath taking. I usually catch a plane or ship coming in. Tip 1. Parking can be tight, i recommend parking in local estate Garland Hill and adding to the dander Tip 2. If you don't fancy the strenuous walk up hill there is another entrance with parking on the Lisnabreeny road itself.

I love finding different places to walk without having to travel too far and this is another such…read moreplace. 10 mins by car from my house in Carryduff and nestled in the Castlereagh hills. There's a small car park off Manse Rd easy to miss as it's not signposted. Entry to the walk is through a wooden gate on the left. You are on a par with Cavehill height- wise and when it's clear you can see right down to the port of Belfast or over to the spectacular Mournes. There's a Rath surrounded by trees which is eerily quiet and the gravelled path leads you down towards Cregagh Glen and waterfalls. You walk past the back of Lagan college and enter the Glen via an underpass. Be careful as the old railway sleeper path ways can be treacherous as I found out to my cost recently! They look dry but can be slippery as I ended upon my ass. Fortunately nothing damaged except ny dignity! You can take a detour to visit the monument to American soldiers who served in NI during WW2 or walk on down the Glen which is beautiful especially after rain when the water is really flowing. It is quite a steep walk back up to the car park but there are a few benches dotted around. Hard to believe you are right in the heart of urban Belfast. This place is well worth a visit with kids (there's a little adventure playground) or its a haven for dog walkers or even just on your own.