Hillsborough Forest is set in the picturesque Georgian village of Hillsborough and sits just a few minutes’ walk from Hillsborough Castle, adjacent to Hillsborough Fort. A popular choice among bird-watchers, dog walkers, photographers and nature-lovers, the forest covers an area of almost 200 acres and has way-marked routes providing a variety of different walks to suit everyone.
With the redevelopment of Hillsborough Forest underway and the first phase complete, visitors can now enjoy upgraded pathways throughout, stunning lakeside viewpoints with seating, additional picnic benches, extra car-parking facilities, and a state-of-the-art woodland-themed outdoor children's play area.
The whole of the lake area is a forest wildlife sanctuary and is home to a wide variety of birds and animals. Look out for the many species of resident and over-wintering waterfowl, especially swans and several varieties of duck. Two red graded forest trails allow the casual walker access around the lake and to the back of the forest past the Fox Fort rath.
After your walk, enjoy some well-earned refreshments at Percy’s Coffee in the carpark or in one of Hillsborough's excellent cafes, restaurants or pubs. The Vintage Tea Rooms are ideal for coffee and cake, The Hillside is perfect for a pint by the open fire, and Hara is sure to impress with a delicious lunch or dinner of locally sourced produce.
This is a mixed coniferous and broadleaved forest planted within the walls of the large park, once part of Hillsborough Demesne. The tree-fringed lake attracts a wide variety of wildfowl. The trails, car park and recreational facilities are managed by Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council. At times there may be restricted access to parts of the forest during work or other forest operations so pay attention to safety signage.
From Hillsborough, follow Main Street to Dromore Road. The entrance to the forest is signposted left (Park Street).
