Glenariff Forest

8 hours ago

2 min read

📍 Glenariff, County Antrim

💷 Parking charge applies

🅿️ Large onsite car park

🚻 Toilets available near the main visitor area

♿️ Some upper areas are accessible, but the waterfall trail has steep sections and steps

☕️ Seasonal café facilities and Laragh Lodge nearby

🧒 Families with confident walkers, nature lovers and adventurous kids

🗺️ 121 Glenariffe Road, Ballymena, BT44 0QX

What You’ll Find

Glenariff Forest Park has several walking routes, so you can choose an adventure that suits your family.

The most popular is the Waterfall Walk, a roughly 3km trail that leads through the forest alongside the river and past several beautiful waterfalls. There are wooden walkways, bridges and viewing points along the way, making it feel like a real woodland adventure.

The trail includes plenty of steps and steep sections, so it isn’t suitable for buggies or wheelchairs. Younger children may also need a helping hand, particularly after wet weather when parts of the route can become slippery.

If you don’t fancy tackling the full waterfall trail, there are other forest walks and viewpoints where you can still enjoy the scenery without heading down all those steps.

For the Grown Ups

The scenery here is absolutely gorgeous, especially from the upper viewpoints across the glen.

There are seasonal food options around the visitor area, while Laragh Lodge sits near the lower end of the waterfall walk. Opening hours can vary, so it’s worth checking before travelling if you’re counting on lunch or coffee.

Why We Loved It

✅ Beautiful waterfalls and woodland scenery

✅ Several walks to choose from

✅ Wooden bridges and riverside paths for little explorers

✅ Picnic areas for an outdoor lunch

✅ Plenty of opportunities for nature spotting

✅ Incredible views across the surrounding glens

Wee Adventurer Top Tips

⭐️ Wear proper walking shoes with good grip

⭐️ Bring a waterproof layer – the weather can change quickly

⭐️ The waterfall trail isn’t suitable for buggies or wheelchairs

⭐️ Keep younger children close beside steep drops and fast-flowing water

⭐️ Allow extra time for stops, snacks and waterfall photographs

⭐️ Bring drinks and snacks in case the seasonal facilities are closed

⭐️ Check current parking charges and café opening hours before travelling

Overall Verdict

Glenariff Forest Park is a brilliant choice for families who love woodland walks and beautiful scenery.

The waterfall trail is more challenging than a typical family stroll, but confident walkers will love the bridges, rushing water and sense of adventure. For younger children, the upper viewpoints and shorter forest walks still offer a lovely day outdoors.