Divis and the Black Mountain Ranger Run, Belfast
Chosen by Director-General of the National Trust, Hilary McGrady, as her favourite running spot, this route climbs to the trig point-topped summit of Black Mountain for truly outstanding views across Belfast. The trail run offers the opportunity to enjoy 180-degree views across the city and further afield, including the Antrim Plateau to the north, Scotland to the east and Mourne Mountains to the south.
'Divis is one of my favourite places in Northern Ireland. When I was growing up, it was home to an army base and it was totally off limits. When the National Trust bought it, almost overnight, it became a neutral space. Somewhere where everyone could go to refresh and recharge. The sense of freedom when I run there now is such a stark contrast, and something I never take for granted.' Hilary McGrady. This route has been created in collaboration with expert trail runners and adventurers Jen and Sim Benson, as part of our Ranger Run Series.
Start:
Divis Coffee Barn, OSNI grid ref: J272744
1
Follow the trail from The Barn towards the Divis transmitter masts. Bear right onto a section of wooden boardwalk, shortly before reaching the mast. The two masts relay TV, radio and digital signals covering Northern Ireland.
Devil's-bit scabious
The mountains comprise a mosaic of grassland heath and bog and are home to a host of wildlife, flora and archaeological remains. The site is significant for biodiversity with red grouse, stonechats, skylark, snipe and other upland breeding birds. Peregrine falcons and ravens also feed in the area. A closer look at the heath reveals some interesting flora and, during the autumn months, the colour purple dominates with the wonderfully named Devil's-bit scabious - a curious-looking plant that has a purple head and antlers sticking out.
2
The boardwalk ends, turn right onto the gravel path, leading towards the summit of Black Mountain, passing the Bobby Stone, the summit is marked by a trigonometry point. From here you can experience exhilarating views across the city and beyond.
Trigonometry pillar
This pillar marks the summit of the Black Mountain at a height of 1275feet (389m), and was used in the mapping of Ireland in 1825. Triangulation from trig pillars is a mathematical process that made accurate map-making possible. Angles were measured from the pillar to other surrounding trig points and for highest accuracy, many rounds of angles would have been measured with the observations taking several hours.
3
Continue to follow the gravel path as it winds its way along the ridge towards Black Hill crossing the first stile.
4
The path leaves the ridge before reaching Black Hill and continues to weave its way back towards the Long Barn, crossing another stile and the Collin River along the way.
Spectacular views
You can enjoy some spectacular views on this walk. On a clear day, Scotland, the Isle of Man and Cumbria are visible. Looking out towards Belfast Lough, you can see Carrickfergus Castle and the Copeland Islands can be seen off Donaghadee. Bring binoculars and a camera for all those unique photographic opportunities.
5
Turn left when you reach the access road to return to the Divis Coffee Barn
End:
Divis Coffee Barn, OSNI grid ref: J272744
