Colin Glen Forest Park

Overview

Colin Glen Forest Park is a 200‑acre haven of woodland, grassland, waterfalls and the meandering Colin River, perched on the edge of the Belfast and Lisburn hills. Managed by a community trust and backed by The Prince’s Trust, the park has transformed from a former linen‑industry hub into Ireland’s leading adventure destination. Whether you are chasing thrills on the Alpine Coaster, exploring the only official Gruffalo Trail in the country, or simply wandering the heritage‑rich trails, the park offers a blend of natural beauty and state‑of‑the‑art sport facilities that appeal to all ages.

History & Background

The Colin Glen area once powered Belfast’s linen empire; the McCance family established flax and beetling mills along the Colin River, making the region the world’s largest linen producer in the 18th and 19th centuries. Remnants of these mills survive at the historic Weir Bridge, offering a tangible link to the industrial past. After a period of neglect, volunteers revitalised the glen, creating a community‑run trust that now oversees the park’s development. In 2015 the Northern Ireland Environment Agency transferred ownership to the Colin Glen Trust on a 999‑year lease, cementing its status as a community asset.

What to See & Do

Three Entrances, Tailored Experiences

Signature Adventures

• Black Bull Run – Ireland’s First Alpine Coaster – A 500‑metre steel track that twists through the forest, offering three rides per ticket. Riders control their speed as they zip up hills, plunge down drops, and zip through two tunnels.
• Forest Flyover Zipline – Launched from the Mountain Entrance, this 250‑metre zipline reaches speeds of up to 35 mph, soaring over the Black Bull Run and the canopy below. Sessions last about 45 minutes.
• Gruffalo Trail – An officially‑endorsed guided walk that brings Julia Donaldson’s beloved characters to life. Participants receive a Gruffalo storybook, stickers and a certificate, making it a hit for younger visitors.
• Heritage Walks – Circular routes crossing five historic bridges, interpreting the Colin River’s role in the linen industry and sharing local folklore.
• Sports Hub – The Leisure Entrance houses a 9‑hole golf course, Ireland’s first TopTracer driving range, an indoor 3G dome for football, GAA, rugby and a fully equipped gym.
• Additional Activities – Archery, laser tag, SKYTrek high‑ropes, kayaking, a driving range, and a range of combi adventure packages.

Trails & Nature

Colin Glen is divided into four colour‑coded walking routes, each offering a different level of challenge and scenery:

• Tom of the Tae End Walk – A gentle, flat circuit ideal for families and casual walkers.
• Englishtown Walk – Slightly hillier, with interpretive panels about the linen heritage.
• Ballycullo Walk – Provides panoramic views of Belfast and, on clear days, the Mourne Mountains.
• Hannahstown Walk – The longest and most demanding route, taking you to the park’s highest points and the striking “Rumble Hole” waterfall.

The woodland is a native broad‑leaved forest, home to badgers, rabbits, red squirrels, hedgehogs and bats. Wildflowers burst into colour each spring, and the river’s waterfalls and ponds add tranquil spots for a rest.

Future Developments

The Colin Glen Trust has an ambitious vision for the next few years:

• Ireland’s longest zipline – Planned to stretch over half a mile from the top of the park down to the Gruffalo Trail area, reaching speeds of up to 60 mph.
• Alpine toboggans – Ground‑based sled tracks that will operate year‑round, offering a roller‑coaster‑like experience.
• 5 km mountain‑bike trail – A purpose‑built single‑track at the park’s upper end, designed for both beginners and experienced riders.
• Glamping pods and dorm‑style accommodation – Sustainable pods and a small lodge are slated for the summit area, creating overnight stay options for families and youth groups.
• Enhanced visitor centre – Relocation of the adventure centre to the park’s highest point, with additional parking, a café and training/education rooms.

These projects aim to broaden the park’s appeal beyond day‑trippers, encouraging weekend stays and larger team‑building events.

Getting There

Colin Glen is easily reachable by car, with the River Entrance only five minutes from Belfast city centre. All three entrances are served by Translink bus routes, and the River Entrance is also accessible via the Glider rapid‑transit service. Parking is available at each entrance; the park’s website provides a downloadable map showing exact locations.

Practical Information

Tickets & Passes – Individual activity prices are listed on the official site. For families wanting to sample several attractions, the “One Pass – Four Activities” bundle offers a cost‑effective way to experience the Alpine Coaster, zipline, Gruffalo Trail and a sports activity in a single purchase.

Accessibility – While the majority of the woodland trails are natural‑surface paths, the Leisure Entrance facilities (gym, indoor dome, driving range) are designed with wheelchair access in mind. Specific accessibility details for each attraction can be confirmed via the park’s contact line.

Mona’s Café – Open Monday‑Friday 09:00‑16:00, serving hot meals, coffee and snacks for visitors.

Contact & Further Details – For the latest pricing, booking information and any seasonal updates, visit the official website colinglen.org (website confirmed active) or call 028 9061 4115. The park’s email address (reception@colinglen.org) is also available for enquiries.

Seasonal Notes – The Alpine Coaster and zipline operate year‑round, weather permitting. The Gruffalo Trail runs throughout the spring and summer months, aligning with school holidays and family vacation periods.

Nearby Highlights

Colin Glen sits a short drive from Belfast’s top attractions: Titanic Belfast (15 min), Belfast City Hall (10 min), and Belfast Castle (25 min). Nature lovers can venture to Divis and the Black Mountain for panoramic hill walks, while cultural explorers may head to the Cathedral Quarter or the historic Falls Road murals.

Colin Glen Forest Park delivers a rare combination of adrenaline‑filled attractions, educational walks and tranquil woodland scenery, making it a must‑visit stop for anyone exploring the Belfast region.