September is always a month of new things and this month Walk NI want to challenge you to do just that! The choice is yours, whether it be discovering a new family walk, adopting a spot in Northern Ireland to look after, taking more pictures of nature or challenging yourself to walk a section of the Ulster Way. With new Covid-19 restrictions on indoor gatherings being introduced in Northern Ireland, the outdoors is once again a popular location to meet up with others.

Who says that your exploring has to end now that summer is over and kids are back to school?! Walk NI believe there has never been a better time to get outside and go on a weekend adventure. In this blog they share with you some of their top family walks in Northern Ireland to help inspire the perfect day out. From magical adventures through a wardrobe door and trails around castle ruins to waterfalls and an opportunity to see some deer, there is something suitable for all. 

Castlewellan Forest Park Lakeside WalkThe perfect place to go for a morning, afternoon or pack a picnic and stay for the whole day. The trail around the lake is relatively flat and suitable for those with buggies. After your walk work together to find your way out of one of Ireland’s largest hedge mazes or head to Animal Wood and meet the animals carved out wood in the natural play area.

Stormont Woodland Walk & Fitness TrailJust a stones throw from the city, this large open green-space is a popular choice for families looking to spend a day outside. Spend a morning or afternoon exploring the woodland trails before heading to the Mo Mowlam play-park for some fun.

Tully Castle Loughshore WalkPart of the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark, the start of this walk takes in the impressive remains of Tully Castle and commanding views of the surrounding countryside. The trails then leads around the headland into woodland before breaking out into views across Lough Erne and several small islands that can be seen directly opposite the shoreline.

Ballyronan Wood WalkLocated on the shores of Lough Neagh this beautiful walk through a small 5-acre woodland is the perfect place to spot a wealth of wildlife including swans, great crested grebes and ducks. There are picnic areas to enjoy you lunch or a flask of hot chocolate

Lough Fea Set in wild mountain scenery, Lough Fea is one of the many delightful lakes dotted throughout the Sperrins Region. Featuring a walkway around Lough Fea this location is a haven for local walkers and tourists alike. With a mixture of panoramic scenery this is the ideal place to retreat to for a family walk. A children’s play area and toilet facilities are provided on site.

Gortin Forest Pollan Trail With so much to see and do in Gortin Forest this is another fantastic location to spend a morning, afternoon or pack a picnic and stay for the day. The Pollan Trail follows the course of the Pollan Burn as it tumbles down the mountainside. Stop, for a few minutes at the waterfall and enjoy the beauty that centuries of water have carved into the solid rock. After your walk follow signs to visit the Deer and ducks or head to the new play park. Before heading home follow the scenic drive for some incredible views of the surrounding Sperrins and countryside.

Narnia Trail Kilbroney Park This family loop trail brings to life the Chronicles of Narnia and is entered like the magical world of Narnia itself, through a ‘Wardrobe Door’, beyond which lies a land filled with strange and intriguing creatures. Enter at your peril, as the White Witch has put a curse on the land. It is always winter and never Christmas – and she can turn you into stone. Be warned, do not eat any “enchanted” Turkish Delight! Other features along the way include ‘The Lamp Post’, ‘The Beaver’s House’ and ‘Aslan’s Table’. These features offer many opportunities to interact and take pictures.

Connswater Community GreenwayThe ideal adventure for those who are looking a family adventure close to the city. Head to Victoria Park at the start of the Greenway to see the ducks or to Cregagh Glen at the end of the Greenway for a peaceful riverside walk. With lots of open green spaces along the way and play-parks there is something for everyone in the heart of East Belfast.

Where else do you enjoy walking as a family? Share your pictures with us by tagging us on social media using #WalkNI. Please note that some of the trails listed above may be busy at the weekend so please be outdoor smart and leave no trace.

Content sourced from Walk NI (walkni.com)