The Most Popular Places on Outmore NI in 2024
Most Popular Places on OutmoreNI in 2024
Welcome to our round-up of the most-visited outdoor spots on OutmoreNI.com! If you’ve spent the year exploring Northern Ireland’s trails, parks, and scenic spots, you might have noticed a few favourites cropping up again and again. From coastal campsites at the foot of the Mournes to enchanting oakwoods and family-friendly parks, here are the top five places that captured everyone’s attention in 2024.
1. Bloody Bridge / Slieve Donard
Why It’s a Hit: This corner of the Mournes delivers rugged coastal views, pristine waterfalls, and an unbeatable summit experience on Slieve Donard (850m).
What to Expect:
- Bloody Bridge Coast: Enjoy a short linear trail along the rocky shoreline with views across the Irish Sea.
- Camping Base: The Bloody Bridge campsite offers a prime spot for those looking to explore the Mournes at dawn.
- River Walk & Summit Trek: From the car park, follow the Bloody Bridge River for a scenic woodland stroll or continue upwards along the Mourne Wall to conquer Slieve Donard’s summit.
- Adventure Factor: Bouldering and coasteering are popular here, though only under qualified supervision. The river cascades over granite boulders, forming dramatic deep pools perfect for thrill-seekers.
2. Loughgall Country Park
Why It’s a Hit: A perfect mix of action-packed fun and serene relaxation, set amid Co. Armagh’s lush countryside.
What to Expect:
- Facilities Galore: Toilets (including accessible ones), parking, showers, and even a shop—ideal for families or group outings.
- Activities for Everyone: Walking, cycling, golf, fishing, tennis courts, adventure trails, and more.
- All About Flexibility: Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or just seeking some tranquility, you’ll find it in this spacious park.
3. Billy Neill MBE Country Park
Why It’s a Hit: Located near Dundonald, this 115-acre space caters to both sporting pursuits and casual country walks.
What to Expect:
- Sports Haven: Boasts multiple soccer pitches (meeting intermediate league standards), a cross-country championship course, plus a new 180-metre pump track.
- Accessible Trails: 3km of walking routes, 2.2km of cycle paths, and dedicated dog exercise areas.
- Wildlife and Woodland: A small pond helps with local flood prevention, and the Jubilee Wood is packed with native species—perfect for nature-lovers who want a quick countryside escape near Belfast.
4. Breen Oakwood
Why It’s a Hit: One of the last remnants of the oakwoods that once covered north-east Antrim, offering a wildlife-rich experience.
What to Expect:
- Ancient Woodland: Mature oaks form a dense canopy, with birch, rowan, hawthorn, holly, and hazel thriving underneath.
- Rich Biodiversity: Watch for red squirrels in nearby conifers, dragonflies over boggy pools, and woodland flowers like bluebells in spring.
- Longer Adventures: The Moyle Way (a challenging two-day walk through Antrim’s glens) also passes through here, perfect for more experienced hikers looking for a multi-day journey.
5. Tollymore Forest Park
Why It’s a Hit: A 630-hectare forest at the foot of the Mournes that’s brimming with character, activities, and fantastic river walks.
What to Expect:
- Play Spaces & Trails: Kids will love the ‘Big Deer’ nature play area, while grown-ups can explore four signposted walking routes beside the Shimna River.
- Scenic Follies: Spot gothic gate arches, charming grottos, and centuries-old arboretum trees as you wander.
- Outdoor Fun: Caravanning, horse riding, orienteering, and the Tollymore National Outdoor Centre’s climbing wall and mountain bike skills course—all set against a stunning Mourne backdrop.
See You Outdoors in 2025!
We hope this top five has inspired you to add a few more places to your 2025 adventure list. Each site offers its own unique blend of scenery, activities, and local heritage—demonstrating just how vibrant and varied Northern Ireland’s outdoors truly are.
Ready for the next wave of trails, parks, and hidden gems? Keep OutmoreNI.com bookmarked in 2025 for the latest on where to go, what to see, and everything you need to plan your next great outdoor escapade. Here’s to another year of unforgettable adventures!
