Cave Hill from Belfast Castle
Belfast's own mountain: past the caves to McArt's Fort and the cliff-top view over the city and lough.
- Distance
- 3.3 km
- Ascent
- 260 m
- Time
- 1–1.5 h
- Grade
- Moderate
- Route
- Circular
- High point
- 368 m
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Route mapped on from OpenStreetMap paths, with heights from EU-DEM terrain data; not yet checked on the ground by TRXO. Added to TRXO on . For planning only: always navigate with an up-to-date map such as OS Explorer or Harvey. How we make our routes.
About this walk
Cave Hill from Belfast Castle is a moderate 3.3 km circular walk with 260 m of ascent, taking 1 to 1.5 hours. It starts at Belfast Castle (grid reference NW 457 346). The start can be reached by public transport.
Cave Hill rises above north Belfast, and its profile, 'Napoleon's Nose', is a landmark across the city. From Belfast Castle, the route climbs through woodland past the caves to McArt's Fort, an ancient earthwork on the cliff top.
The view takes in the whole city, the shipyards and Belfast Lough. The paths are steep and muddy in places; keep away from the cliff edge.
Route
-
1
The caves
Climb through the woods from the castle past the caves.
-
2
McArt's Fort
Continue to the fort on the cliff top, then return through the country park.
Summit
Cave Hill (McArt's Fort)
368 m
On the way
-
Belfast CastleCastle · on the route
Questions about this walk
- How long does Cave Hill from Belfast Castle take?
- Most walkers take 1–1.5 hours for the 3.3 km route, which has 260 m of ascent. That allows for short stops; give yourself longer in winter, in poor weather or with a group.
- Where does the walk start, and where can I park?
- It starts at Belfast Castle (grid reference NW 457 346). Car park at Belfast Castle.
- Can I get there by public transport?
- Metro buses run up the Antrim Road. Check times with Translink.
- How hard is it?
- It's graded moderate. Woodland paths; steep, muddy sections; open clifftop.
- Can I take my dog?
- Yes, dogs are welcome on this walk. Before you go: Cave Hill Country Park. Keep well back from the cliff edges.
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