0.6 miles
Linear
Easy
Gruffalo Trail - Colin Glen
With each character magically recreated by sculptor Andrew McIntyre and set against the backdrop of a stunning forest park this family attraction is perfect for kids and kids at heart!
TRAIL INFORMATION
The characters from the much loved picture book, The Gruffalo, written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler, have been brought to life along this trail at Colin Glen Forest Park in Belfast.
Each character has been magically recreated by sculptor Andrew McIntyre and is set against the backdrop of the forest park and the Colin River. From the car park, go through the Gruffalo Archway and follow the main path past Sky Trek and the red suspension bridge, keeping the Colin River on your right. You can then follow the Gruffalos footsteps to meet the silly old fox, owl and snake on the way to an amazing 8 foot tall Gruffalo - complete with knobbly knees, turned out toes and a poisonous wart on the end of his nose.
The trail will take approximately 20 mins to get to the Gruffalo (depending on how many photos and selfies you take at each sculpture) and then you can sit for a moment or two and take in the beauty of the forest next to the river, before a comfortable stroll back down to the visitors centre, where you can grab a nice cup of tea or coffee.
The experience is completely free so bring the family and enjoy one of Belfast’s most beautiful parks and rather than read the Gruffalo book (again!) come and live it.
TRAIL INFORMATION
The characters from the much loved picture book, The Gruffalo, written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler, have been brought to life along this trail at Colin Glen Forest Park in Belfast.
Each character has been magically recreated by sculptor Andrew McIntyre and is set against the backdrop of the forest park and the Colin River. From the car park, go through the Gruffalo Archway and follow the main path past Sky Trek and the red suspension bridge, keeping the Colin River on your right. You can then follow the Gruffalos footsteps to meet the silly old fox, owl and snake on the way to an amazing 8 foot tall Gruffalo - complete with knobbly knees, turned out toes and a poisonous wart on the end of his nose.
The trail will take approximately 20 mins to get to the Gruffalo (depending on how many photos and selfies you take at each sculpture) and then you can sit for a moment or two and take in the beauty of the forest next to the river, before a comfortable stroll back down to the visitors centre, where you can grab a nice cup of tea or coffee.
The experience is completely free so bring the family and enjoy one of Belfast’s most beautiful parks and rather than read the Gruffalo book (again!) come and live it.
GETTING TO THE START
- Point of Interest Sculptures of the much loved characters from the Gruffalo
- Facilities Colin Glen Forest Park Centre - car parking, toilets, cafe and information, opening hours apply. The following facilities are available for users with limited mobility: – Café (wheelchair accessible) – Disabled parking – Disabled toilets
- Dog Policy Dogs must be kept under control
- Accessibility Information
Accessibility Grade: Grade 3 Terrain: Tarmac paths Toilet Facility: No Signage: No - Getting to the Start Car park at Colin Glen Visitor Centre - entrance signposted off the Stewartstown Road, Belfast.
- Public Transport Translink – journeyplanner.translink.co.uk
- Level of Difficulty Easy TRAIL GRADE DISCLAIMER
The trail grades shown on OutmoreNI.com and WalkNI.com are based on desk-based assessments of available trail information. The categories—Easy, Moderate, Strenuous, and Very Strenuous—follow the Sustainable Trails Development Guide grading system.
These grades are provided as a general guide to help users choose trails that may be suitable for them. They are not a substitute for official, on-site grading or safety information provided by the relevant land manager, which may differ from the information on these websites.
Outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including the risk of injury, death, property damage, and other hazards. By using information from OutmoreNI.com and WalkNI.com, you acknowledge that you do so at your own risk. OutmoreNI.com and WalkNI.com accept no responsibility or liability for any loss, injury, or damage arising from the use of this information.
Conditions on trails can change, and the actual environment may differ from what is described online. Users should always exercise their own judgment, take appropriate precautions, and remain responsible for their own safety and conduct at all times.
All information provided on OutmoreNI.com and WalkNI.com is intended as a guide only and should be used alongside your own experience, awareness, and careful decision-making.
Relatively flat or gently rolling trails with a mostly smooth surface. You might come across some obstacles like bridges, gates and steps.
Normal clothing and footwear can be worn.
