Winter wildlife walks in Northern Ireland

top places to spot wildlife this winter

Leafless trees and frosty backdrops make local wildlife easier to spot. What will you discover on your winter walk?

There's something magical about a winter walk. The cool air, frosty landscape and crisp frozen paths underfoot all come together to create a winter wonderland that's definitely worth exploring. So wrap up warm and choose where you want to go on your winter walk today...

Horses on Divis and Black Mountain in Belfast

Winter walks at Divis and the Black Mountain  

See Belfast and beyond in a whole new light as you take to the trails and climb into the clouds. The area is significant for biodiversity with red grouse, stonechats, skylark, snipe and other upland breeding birds, while peregrine falcons and ravens swoop overhead. There are several occupied badger setts and on a walk through this habitat you mayeven encounter a hiding Irish hare.

Winter walks at Divis and the Black Mountain
Winter on the Lagan at Minnowburn, County Down

Winter walks at Minnowburn 

Enjoy riverbank, meadow and woodland walks linking the landmarks of Shaw’s Bridge and the Giant’s Ring. Brown trout can usually be seen feeding in the shallow stream and with a bit of luck you might see a kingfisher or a dipper.

Winter walks at Minnowburn
Flowering blackthorn tree in Rowallane Garden

Winter walks at Rowallane Garden 

This inspirational garden is perfect for a winter stroll. Home to a diverse mix of wildlife, the trees provide the ideal habitat for beetles, woodlice and other bugs. See if you can spot birds and hedgehogs who love to forage in the debris for insects.

Winter walks at Rowallane Garden
Seals basking on Strangford Lough near Castle Ward

Winter walks at Castle Ward  

With 21 miles of trails there is plenty of space for walking at Castle Ward. Meander through atmospheric woodland and open farmland while enjoying views across Strangford Lough. Along the shore look out for harbour seals, wildfowl and wading birds.

Winter walks at Castle Ward
Red squirrels at Mount Stewart Estate

Winter walks at Mount Stewart 

Voted one of the top ten gardens in the world, Mount Stewart reflects a rich tapestry of design and planting artistry bearing the hallmark of its creator – Edith, Lady Londonderry. The gardens, lakes and woodlands are home to red squirrels, wintering redwing and flocks of finches.Visit the Lookout to spot birds and seals on Strangford Lough.

Winter walks at Mount Stewart
Pine martens can be spotted at Crom in Fermanagh

Winter walks at Crom 

This tranquil landscape on the shores of the Lough is a wonder for wildlife. Sneak a peak at feathered friends from the birdhide or walk through the woodlands and see if you can spot the elusive pine marten.

Winter walks at Crom
Spot a Kingfisher at The Argory

Winter walks at The Argory 

There are garden, woodland and riverside walks at this fascinating place. Test your skills at telling the time on the Rose Garden sundial and as you follow the banks of the River Blackwater up to the meadows look out for Irish hares, and jays, or even a heron or kingfisher.

Winter walks at The Argory
Giants Causeway at dusk

Winter walks at the Giant's Causeway 

Northern Ireland’s iconic World Heritage Site is home to a wealth of wildlife including many species of plants, fungi, lichen, birds, spiders, beetles, butterflies and moths. On the coastal path you might even be lucky enough to see a seal or dolphin playing in the water.

Winter walks at the Giant's Causeway