Overview
The Comber Greenway (National Cycle Network Route 99) is a 7‑mile (11.2 km) traffic‑free corridor that stretches from the heart of Belfast’s Titanic Quarter to the market town of Comber in County Down. 98.9 % of the route is traffic‑free, with a smooth surface that is 91.4 % asphalt and the remainder compacted loose material. The path is relatively flat, making it suitable for families, casual cyclists, joggers and anyone looking for a green escape from the city bustle.
Key attractions along the way include the iconic Big Fish sculpture at Queen Elizabeth Bridge, the bronze C.S. Lewis statues in the eponymous square, and sweeping views of the Stormont Estate and Scrabo Tower. The route also traverses a designated SLNCI wetland, offering a glimpse of local flora and fauna – foxes, water‑birds and a variety of wildflowers have been reported by regular users.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 7 mi / 11.2 km |
| Surface | 91.4 % asphalt, 8.6 % compacted loose |
| Traffic‑free | 98.9 % |
| Difficulty | Easy – flat, well‑maintained |
| Dog policy | Dogs must be kept under control |
| Year opened | 8 Nov 2008 |
The Greenway is part of Sustrans’ National Cycle Network and is free to use year‑round.
History
The route follows the former Belfast and County Down Railway, which operated from the 1850s until its closure by the Ulster Transport Authority in 1950. After the tracks were lifted throughout the 1950s, the former line fell into disuse, with many bridges and stations removed. A handful of remnants survived, most notably the stone platform of Neill’s Hill near Sandown Road.
In the 1960s a proposal to turn part of the corridor into the M7 motorway was rejected, and a later 2001 urban‑area plan for a smaller road never materialised. By the early 2000s the disused track had become an informal walking and cycling path. A major upgrade began in 2003‑04 when the Knock Valley Relief Sewer was installed, prompting extensive excavation and the opportunity to lay a modern hard‑surface track.
Funding from several government agencies allowed the construction of a continuous, paved route, complete with safe road crossings and a new toucan crossing near the Police Service of Northern Ireland headquarters. The final link between Old Dundonald Road/Comber Road junction and the town of Comber opened on 8 November 2008, officially inaugurating the Comber Greenway as a dedicated green corridor.
What to See & Do
Urban Highlights
- Big Fish sculpture – the striking bronze fish at the start of the route, a symbol of Belfast’s maritime heritage.
- C.S. Lewis Square – a civic plaza featuring seven bronze statues from The Chronicles of Narnia; the square also marks the intersection with the Connswater Community Greenway.
- Titanic Belfast – a short walk from the trail’s western terminus, this award‑winning visitor centre tells the story of the ill‑fated liner.
- Stormont Parliament Buildings – visible from the Greenway as you pass the wetland area near Dundonald; guided tours of the Assembly are available on weekdays.
Natural & Wetland Sections
The Greenway’s central stretch runs through a SLNCI‑designated wetland near the Enler River. Boardwalks and reinstated bridges allow walkers and cyclists to cross the river and farm lanes safely, while providing excellent bird‑watching opportunities. In spring, the wetland bursts into colour with wild orchids and marsh marigolds.
Historic Railway Remains
Along the route you will encounter the sites of former stations at Ballymacarrett, Dundonald, and Comber. While the platforms are largely gone, interpretive signs at each location explain the line’s role in connecting Belfast’s industrial heartland with the agricultural hinterland of County Down.
Cycling & Running
The path’s four‑metre width accommodates two‑way traffic, making it popular with commuters heading into Belfast and with recreational cyclists heading onward to Strangford Lough. The Pedal Perks discount scheme, run by the East Belfast Business Improvement District, offers participating cafés and shops along the route a modest discount for cyclists who show a proof‑of‑ride.
Dog‑Friendly Walks
Dog owners will appreciate the ample green space and the fact that the Greenway is largely traffic‑free. Dogs must be kept under control, and waste bins are provided at several access points, including Ballyhackamore, Tullycarnet, Dundonald and Comber.
Getting There & Facilities
- Start point: Dee Street, just off Newtownards Road in east Belfast.
- End point: Belfast Road, Comber.
- Public transport: The Titanic Quarter train station and the Holywood Arches Glider halt are within a short walk of the western trailhead. Regular bus services also serve the Dundonald and Comber sections.
- Parking: Free parking is available at the Ravenscroft Avenue car park (near the Glider halt) and at several lay‑bys in Dundonald and Comber.
- Cycle‑repair stations: Located at C.S. Lewis Square and at the Billy Neill Playing Fields near Comber.
- Crossings: Each major road crossing features a toucan crossing; obey the signals, especially at Knock Road and Comber Road intersections.
- Navigation: The route can be viewed on OS Maps: View on OS Maps. A downloadable GPX file is also offered on the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust site.
- Opening hours: Open 24 hours a day, all year, with no admission fee.
Nearby Attractions
A short detour from the Greenway’s eastern terminus brings you into the charming village of Ballygowan, known for its historic church and pleasant cafés – a pleasant stop for a break before heading back towards Belfast.