Hazelbank Park

Hazelbank park is classed as one of the best parks in Newtownabbey with some stunning shrub beds, woodland garden and estate trees. There is a playground for children of all ages, a bowling green, a cycle path and a walkway to health that runs through the park.

In the summer you can visit the shore for a paddle or have a picnic on the grass so there is something for everyone at this park. The pavilion often hosts classes and courses. Bicycles can be hired in the summer from 9am to 5pm. The Bowling green is open from Easter to September. Gideons Green offers some great bird viewing over the Whitehouse lagoon.

The park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Hazelbank park is well known for the strange little turrets that flank the shoreline. These were actually used as lookout posts during the war when German bombers attacked Belfast's shipyard. At the opposite side of the lough is Grey Point Fort. It was also a 'look-out' point on Belfast Lough and now is a small museum.

Lagan and Lough Cycle Route

Water is the linking theme of this ride as it makes its way along the River Lagan and Lagan Navigation Canal from Lisburn into the regenerated heart of Belfast, then out along the shores of Belfast Lough towards the Loughshore Park at Jordanstown via the North Foreshore Path.

From Lisburn a long wooded river and canalside section leads past former linen mills and right into the centre of Belfast via safe crossings at the Ormeau and Albert Bridges.

Along the way you’ll spot some great artworks including some weights (where you can check out your eyesight!),a flying angel and one of only two huge ceramic UK maps showing the National Cycle Network routes throughout the country.

The Belfast Hills, particularly the dramatic outline of the Cave Hill, form a fine backdrop to the second part of the ride. After the ferry terminals and the dockland area you’ll cross onto the North Foreshore Path, which will take you all the way to Hazelbank Park and Whiteabbey with the vast shimmering expanse of Belfast Lough off to your right. The fence along the first part of this section was erected to protect the numerous wading birds from being disturbed by dogs and walkers.

Location

Hazelbank Park is located right at the end of the country-bound section of the M5 motorway. It is about 4miles outside Belfast along the motorway.

There is plenty of car-parking available as well as toilets.

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