We enjoyed these 10 best waterfalls in Belfast and it’s the perfect hydration goal! Let’s get your feet wet!
Last weekend, my friends and I decided to shake things up and get outdoorsy. Chasing waterfalls, to be exact! Who knew Belfast had so many hidden gems waiting to be explored? We were all blown away by how much beauty was right on our doorstep!
From misty cascades tucked away in serene parks to majestic flows that make you pause in awe, we soaked it all in, literally. It was the perfect mix of adventure, stunning views, and, let’s be honest, the ultimate excuse to cool off.
If you’re looking for a fun way to spend your day, these 10 best waterfalls in Belfast are calling your name. Trust me, you won’t regret it. Dive into the list below and let’s get your next hydration goal sorted. You’ll be chasing waterfalls like a pro in no time!
1.Glenariff Waterfall
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Location: Glenariff Forest Park, 98 Glenariff Rd, Ballymena BT44 0QX
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Glenariff Waterfall is straight out of a fairy tale. My family and I spent the day wandering the forest park, and the sound of the falls pulled us in like magic. The kids loved the wooden boardwalk, it’s like a nature-made runway!
We found the perfect spot by the river to take a break and just soak in the peaceful vibes. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, and you start noticing little things, like how the sunlight dances on the water. It’s just… lovely.
The walk to the falls is super easy, even for the less outdoorsy folks in the group. The trails are well-marked, so no chance of getting lost, unless you get lost in the views, which is totally possible! You’ll definitely want to stop and take it all in along the way.
| Pro tip: Visit in autumn when the trees are rocking fiery colors. And pack a picnic, you’ll thank yourself when you’re munching on sandwiches with that view! It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature’s beauty while you refuel. |
2. Ess-na-Larach Waterfall
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Location: Glenariff Forest Park, Ballymena BT44 0QX
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This little beauty is a hidden gem in Glenariff Forest. Ess-na-Larach Waterfall feels like your own secret getaway. When we found it, we just stood there listening to the gentle sound of water, it’s so calming. It’s one of those places that makes you want to stay.
The green, mossy surroundings give the whole spot this enchanted vibe, like something out of a fantasy book. We even joked that it felt like elves might pop out from behind the trees! It’s the perfect place to sit, breathe, and recharge.
Getting there is part of the fun. The walk through the forest is gorgeous, and there are plenty of spots along the way where you’ll want to stop and take pictures. It’s less crowded than Glenariff, so it felt like we had the place to ourselves.
| Pro tip: Wear sturdy shoes because the trails can get a bit slippery after rain. And bring a thermos of tea or coffee to sip while soaking up the serenity. It’s the perfect excuse to take a peaceful break and enjoy the natural beauty around you. |
3. Cranny Falls
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Location: Larne, Ballymena BT44 0LJ
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Cranny Falls is the kind of place that surprises you with how beautiful it is. The hike there is super chill—my little nephew had zero complaints—and the payoff is a stunning waterfall surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush greenery.
After taking about a hundred photos, we made our way to Carnlough Harbour, which is just a short drive away. It’s such a charming spot, and the fish and chips we got there? Absolute perfection. This combo of hike and harbour made for the best day out.
The walk to the falls is so scenic, with wildflowers and open fields along the way. It’s great for families, couples, or anyone who just wants an easy adventure with a big reward. You’ll feel refreshed just from being out there!
| Pro tip: Don’t miss Carnlough Harbour! It’s postcard-perfect and full of local charm. Grab an ice cream or some chips and soak up the coastal vibes. Take a stroll along the harbor to enjoy the stunning sea views and the fresh ocean breeze! |
4. Dunseverick Falls
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Location: 190 Causeway Rd, Bushmills BT57 8SY
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Dunseverick Falls is a showstopper. This waterfall flows directly into the sea, and it’s one of the most dramatic, breathtaking sights we’ve ever seen. My friends and I were absolutely speechless when we got there. We’re in awe when we saw it!
It’s right near the Giant’s Causeway, so we made a day of it. Starting with the Causeway’s crazy rock formations and ending with this epic coastal waterfall was the perfect one-two punch of natural beauty. We couldn’t have asked for a better way!
The trails around the falls are easy to navigate, and the views along the way are just as gorgeous as the main event. Bring a good camera or your phone because every angle here is Instagram gold. You’ll be snapping photos non-stop!
| Pro tip: Pair it with a visit to the Giant’s Causeway for an unforgettable day. Waterproof gear is a must, the sea spray is no joke but totally worth it! Plus, the unique rock formations around the Causeway make it feel like you’ve stepped into another world. |
5. Gleno Waterfall
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Location: Waterfall Rd., Gleno, Larne BT40 3LE
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Gleno Waterfall is like finding a peaceful little secret just outside Belfast. It’s not too big, not too small, just the perfect size to make you go, “Wow.” We went early in the morning, and it felt like we had the whole place to ourselves.
The surrounding woods are super charming, and the short walk to the falls is easy enough for anyone. It’s the kind of place where you can sit, relax, and let the sound of the water melt all your stress away. You’ll leave feeling refreshed and totally at peace.
It’s also a fantastic spot for a little impromptu photo shoot. The mist from the falls made everything feel extra magical. The light filtering through the trees makes everything look straight out of a nature calendar. You’ll have a camera roll full of gorgeous shots!
| Pro tip: Get there early for fewer crowds and better lighting for photos. Bonus: it’s close enough to Belfast for a quick nature fix without a long drive. Pack a light jacket, as it can get a bit chilly near the falls, even on sunny days! |
6. Cregagh Glen Waterfalls
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Location:A55 Upper Knockbreda Rd, Belfast BT6 9QL
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Cregagh Glen is like stepping into another world. The forest is so lush and green, and the trail to the waterfalls feels like an adventure without being too challenging. We took time walking to enjoy the birdsong and the way the sunlight streamed through the trees.
When we finally got to the falls, we just plopped down on some rocks and had a little snack break. It’s the kind of place where you can lose track of time, just sitting there, listening to the water and enjoying the peace.
The trail itself is as much a highlight as the falls. There are little wooden bridges, moss-covered rocks, and enough twists and turns to keep things interesting. Every step feels like an adventure, making it a joy to explore from start to finish.
| Pro tip: Pack some snacks or a thermos of tea and make a mini picnic out of it. It’s also a fantastic spot for a tech-free day! Leave your phone in your bag and just enjoy the sounds of nature and the peaceful surroundings. You’ll feel totally refreshed. |
7. Tollymore Waterfall
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Location: Bryansford Rd, Newcastle BT33 0PR
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Tollymore Waterfall is just one part of the magic that is Tollymore Forest Park. This place has it all! Fairy tale stone bridges, ancient trees, and trails that make you feel like you’re in a movie. The waterfall itself is a peaceful spot, you can take a break mid-hike.
We spent the whole day exploring the park, and every corner had something new to marvel at. The kids loved climbing around the rocks near the falls, while the adults were all about taking in the views. It’s such a relaxing and beautiful place to recharge.
If you’re into photography, you’ll go nuts here. The light filtering through the trees, the little streams, and of course, the waterfall. It’s all picture-perfect. Every corner feels like it’s begging to be captured, so make sure your camera or phone is fully charged!
| Pro tip: Don’t miss the stone bridges and the arboretum, they’re just as enchanting as the waterfall. Bring a packed lunch because you’ll want to stay all day. There’s something magical about finding a cozy spot to eat surrounded by such stunning scenery. |
8. Ness Country Park Waterfalls
Location: 50 Oughtagh Rd, Killaloo, Londonderry BT47
Website
Ness Country Park is like a treasure trove of waterfalls. There’s not just one, but several little cascades scattered along the trails. The park is so peaceful, with thick woodlands and the constant sound of running water keeping you company as you walk.
We spent hours wandering the trails, stopping at every waterfall to take pictures and just enjoy the beauty. It’s the kind of place where you can take your time and really connect with nature. The kids loved exploring all the little nooks and crannies along the paths.
The trails are well-marked, but they can be a little uneven, so good shoes are a must. It’s a fantastic spot for a family day out or even a solo adventure if you need some quiet time. The cascading water makes it the perfect backdrop for relaxation or reflection
| Pro tip: Wear sturdy shoes, pack a picnic, and don’t rush. This place is all about slowing down and soaking it all in. Bring a pair of binoculars too! You never know what wildlife you might spot along the way! It’s the perfect excuse to pause and enjoy the little things. |
9. Drummoney Falls
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Location: Derrybrick Rd, Enniskillen BT93 1BL
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Drummoney Falls was a bit of an adventure to get to, but so worth it. The hike was a little challenging—steep in parts—but when we finally reached the falls, it felt like we’d stumbled onto something truly special.
It’s quieter than some of the other spots we visited, so it felt like we had our own little piece of paradise. We spent a good while just sitting there, taking it all in. It’s the kind of place that feels rewarding to discover. Definitely a place you’ll want to keep to yourself!
The hike itself was half the fun. The cliffs and rolling hills around it make for a jaw-dropping backdrop. We brought plenty of water and made a game out of spotting cool plants and wildlife along the way. It’s definitely a spot for adventurers.
| Pro tip: This one’s for more experienced hikers, so come prepared with good shoes and lots of water. The views are your reward! Take your time and soak in the scenery, it’s as much about the journey as the destination. |
10. Crumlin Glen Waterfall
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Location: Crumlin BT29 4AA
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Crumlin Glen Waterfall may not be the biggest, but it’s got this quiet charm that’s hard to beat. The walk to get there is super easy, so it’s perfect for a quick trip if you’re in the area. We stopped here on our way to the Mourne Mountains, and it turned out to be such a nice little detour.
The waterfall is surrounded by greenery, and there’s a small trail that lets you explore around it. We didn’t spend a ton of time here, but it was just enough to stretch our legs and snap a few photos before heading off.
It’s a great spot to combine with other adventures nearby. Plus, the surrounding area is full of lovely views, so keep your eyes open as you drive around. You might even stumble upon a charming café or picnic spot to round out your trip!
| Pro tip: Pair this stop with a hike in the Mourne Mountains for an epic day out. It’s small but mighty, and the peaceful vibes are worth the stop. Don’t forget your camera! The surrounding scenery is breathtaking! |