Crawfordsburn Country Park

What You'll Find

Crawfordsburn Country Park is one of those places where you can enjoy beautiful woodland walks, discover a waterfall and finish off at the beach, all in one family outing!

Located along the shores of Belfast Lough, it's a brilliant spot for a family walk, with plenty for the wee ones to discover along the way.

One of my favourite parts is Crawfordsburn Glen, where the woodland paths follow the stream through the trees. The kids will love crossing the little bridges, listening to the water and looking out for the waterfall along the way.

There are some beautiful walking trails throughout the park, with plenty of opportunities to spot birds, squirrels and other wildlife. You can choose a shorter wander with younger children or head off on a longer walk if everyone is feeling adventurous.

And one of the best things about Crawfordsburn is that you can finish your woodland walk at the beach!

Crawfordsburn Beach is a lovely spot for digging in the sand, collecting shells, exploring the shoreline and enjoying the views across Belfast Lough.

It's especially nice on a sunny day when you can bring the buckets and spades and spend a little longer by the sea.

There's also plenty of green space for picnics, so it's worth packing a few snacks and making a morning or afternoon of it.

And if you fancy a coffee or something to eat, the Woodland Café is a lovely little stop during your visit.

If your wee ones are hoping for some playground time too, Cootehall Road Play Park is nearby. It's a brilliant enclosed playground with climbing frames, swings, slides and a zip line, so you could easily combine the two for a bigger family day out.

With woodland trails, a waterfall, beautiful coastal scenery and the beach to explore, Crawfordsburn Country Park is definitely one to add to your list!

Wee Ones Will Love...

• ✓Following the woodland trails and crossing the little bridges
• ✓Finding the waterfall hidden among the trees
• ✓Looking out for squirrels, birds and other wildlife
• ✓Digging in the sand and collecting shells at Crawfordsburn Beach
• ✓Enjoying a picnic or a little treat after exploring

Before You Visit

There are different entrances and walking routes around the country park, so it's worth deciding whether you'd prefer to start with the woodland trails or head straight to the beach.

Some of the woodland paths are steep or uneven, so choose your route carefully if you're bringing a buggy or visiting with younger children.

If you're planning to explore both the glen and the beach, allow plenty of time for little legs.

Bring suitable shoes for the woodland trails and a change of clothes if the kids are likely to end up in the sand or water.

There isn't a playground within Crawfordsburn Country Park itself. Cootehall Road Play Park is a separate playground nearby.

⭐ Wee Adventurers Top Tips

• ⭐Don't miss the waterfall! The walk through Crawfordsburn Glen is such a lovely part of the park.
• ⭐Bring buckets and spades if you're planning to finish your walk at the beach.
• ⭐Pack a picnic or stop at the Woodland Café for a coffee and a little treat.
• ⭐If your kids love playgrounds, combine your visit with nearby Cootehall Road Play Park. It's a brilliant one for children of different ages.
• ⭐If you're visiting with younger children, choose a shorter walking route rather than trying to explore the whole country park in one go.