Divis and the Black Mountain is an expansive National Trust nature reserve and outdoor trail network overlooking the city, making it one of the best things to do with kids in Belfast. Operating as an open-air nature reserve and mountain walking area, it gives families panoramic views, fresh upland air, and rich wildlife habitats to explore.

Prices start from £0.00 as entry to the trails, mountain paths, and nature reserves is completely free for all visitors. With free entry and pay-and-display parking options (free for National Trust members), it provides an affordable family day out in nature.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids, this high-altitude haven offers gravel paths, scenic viewpoints, and wildlife spotting. Children can splash through heathland streams, spot rare birds, follow boardwalk routes, and enjoy views stretching across Strangford Lough and the Mourne Mountains.

What are the key features for families?

• Interactive Exhibits: Natural orientation boards, trail guides, and wildlife interpretation panels along the paths.
• Educational Day Out: Children learn about upland bog ecology, stone age archaeology, heather conservation, and native bird species.
• Sensory Play and Nature: Crisp mountain air, peat bog textures, rushing streams, calling skylarks, and vast open landscapes.
• Outdoor Exploration: Over 10 miles of marked walking trails ranging from smooth boardwalks to challenging peak hikes.

What are the main highlights kids will love?

• Lough Trail Boardwalk: Walking along the timber boardwalk around the water, keeping an eye out for frogs, dragonflies, and water birds.
• Summiting Divis Mountain: Reaching the highest point in Belfast at 478 metres for views across Northern Ireland, Scotland, and the Isle of Man.
• Ridge Walk Views: Walking the Black Mountain Ridge Trail to look directly down over Belfast City Centre, the shipyards, and the Lagan Valley.
• Divis Coffee Barn: Stopping for warm hot chocolates, sausage rolls, and traybakes after completing a blustery mountain walk.
• Wildlife Spotting: Hunting for Irish hares, red grouse, skylarks, and stonechats hiding among the heather and blanket bog.

Beyond the Main Attraction

• Colin Glen Forest Park: Located 2.5 miles south, featuring Gruffalo trails, alpine coaster rides, and ziplines.
• Belfast Castle & Cave Hill: Situated 6 miles north, offering historic estate grounds and adventure play parks.
• Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park: Positioned 5 miles south, famous for extensive rose gardens and green spaces.
• Millfield & City Centre: Located 4 miles east, providing access to museums, cafes, and shops.