Botanic Gardens

About

This route explores an historic city park with many interesting features, buildings and botanical collections.

Start Point:
J336727

Finish Point:
J336727

Route:
This is a circular walk that can be started from any of seven entrances to Botanic Gardens. This description begins at the main entrance at the Stranmillis Road. Once inside the main gates of the park you will see the statue of Lord Kelvin (1) in front of you. Follow the path to the right; this leads past the front of the Ulster Museum and to the entrance of the Tropical Ravine. From the ravine take the tarmac path to the right. Continue past an entrance gate to your right and straight ahead to the herbaceous borders. The path goes along the top border and then doubles back on itself along the lower border. Follow this until you reach a low wall and set of steps on your right that leads through the stone pergolas in the centre of the rose garden. Beyond the rose garden, go right on the tarmac path and then take the narrow path on your left which leads on to the main path round the park. Turn right and follow this path past the bowling green and two further entrances on your right. Pass the rockery and then the main lawn on your left, until you reach a three-way junction. From here you can see the Palm House. Pause to enjoy the splendour of the Palm House, both inside and out. To complete the walk, continue along the path, which leads past the oak and conifer collections, back to the entrance at Stranmillis Road.

Distance:
0.8 miles

Terrain:
Tarmac paths, some steps

Point of interest:
Palm House, Tropical Ravine, Rose Garden, Ulster Museum

Facilities:
Public toilets in the park, refreshments available locally

Publication:
A Walk in the Park, and Botanic Gardens leaflet

Publication availability:
Belfast City Council, Parks Department, 02890320202 Ext. 3199. Botanic Gardens leaflet is available to download on this page.

Nearest town:
University area, Belfast

OS map:
15

Accessible terrain:
Surfaced tarmac paths with some steps