Giant's Ring circular walk at Minnowburn
A relaxing walk along the river, rising gently through woodland and farmland, via Neolithic earthwork the Giant's Ring. The route also takes in a natural amphitheatre carved by a glacier and views across the Lagan Valley from Terrace Hill garden.
Terrace Hill house
Although you can enjoy Terrace Hill garden, Terrace Hill House is privately owned and is not open to the public.
Total steps: 6
Total steps: 6
Start point
Minnowburn car park, OSNI grid ref J327685
Step 1
From the car park, follow the Lagan riverbank path upstream. After about 220yd (200m), take the first path on your left-hand side.
Step 2
Follow this path, cross the Edenderry Road and continue with the mature woodland on your left. You'll enter young, broadleaved woodland. Carry on until you reach the Ballynahatty Road. Cross the road and take the path opposite.
Step 3
Follow the path with fields on either side for about half a mile (1km), until you reach the Giant's Ring. After exploring the Ring, make your way out through the gate at the opposite side from where you arrived. Pass through the car park and carry on down the avenue until you reach the road.
Step 4
Cross the road, watching out for traffic. Use the access ramp opposite leading through the gap in the fence. You're now in the Sandpit Field. Follow the path around the top of the large pit until you come to a pedestrian gate beside a road.
Step 5
Cross the road and go through the pedestrian gate opposite. Continue on the old tarmac path up Terrace Hill. This was once the main avenue to Terrace Hill house. In spring, the bank on the left is filled with daffodils and bluebells. Carry on until you reach the garden. Once you've explored this magical place, go back the way you came and take the path on the left, leading downhill through young woodland.
Step 6
Continue on the path until you reach the Minnowburn river. Follow the river downstream to Minnowburn Bridge and your starting point at the car park beyond.
End point
Minnowburn car park, OSNI grid ref J324685
Trail map
More near here
Riverside circular walk at Minnowburn
Take a leisurely walk along the banks of the River Lagan into the heart of the Lagan Valley Regional Park, with an optional detour to the historic village of Edenderry.
Get in touch
Our partners
We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.
You might also be interested in
Things to do at Minnowburn
From the majestic Minnowburn Beeches to the peaceful Terrace Hill Garden, Minnowburn is a haven just outside the city. Take a look at what you might find on your next visit.
The history of Minnowburn
We first became involved at Minnowburn in June 1945. The Minnowburn Beeches were under threat from felling when a permit application was submitted to allow building in the area.
Walking in Northern Ireland
Embrace the vibrant spirit of spring by stepping into the legendary landscapes of Northern Ireland. From the heights of Slieve Donard to the tranquil Lake Trail at Mount Stewart, our curated walking trails cater to all abilities, inviting you to immerse yourself in nature's blossoming beauty. Strap on your hiking boots and explore iconic sites like the Giant's Causeway, where coastal paths invite the adventurous, and ancient bogs tell tales of history on winding boardwalks. Let our trails guide you on an exploration of nature's renewal, beauty, and historical richness this season.
Cotswold Outdoor: our exclusive walking partner
Find out more about the National Trust’s ongoing partnership with Cotswold Outdoor as our exclusive walking partner.
Staying safe at National Trust places
The special places in National Trust care sometimes come with a few risks for visitors, be it coastline or countryside. Find out how to keep safe throughout your visits.
Follow the Countryside Code
Help to look after National Trust places by observing a few simple guidelines during your visit and following the Countryside Code.
Walking
Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.