J3279 : Cave Hill Country Park

Cave Hill

368m Elevation
94m Prominence
I Country
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J3279 : Cave Hill Country Park

Gareth James Photo source

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Route planning notes

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Cave Hill Country Park Circular

This popular route begins at the Belfast Castle car park and follows the well-marked Cave Hill Trail. The path ascends through woodland, passing the iconic Napoleon's Nose, which offers stunning views over Belfast and beyond. The trail loops around the summit and descends back to the car park.

7.2 km ~2.5 hours Moderate

Napoleon's Nose Summit Route

A shorter and more direct route to the summit, starting from the Upper Hightown Road car park. This path climbs steeply to Napoleon's Nose, providing breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding countryside. The return follows the same path downhill.

4.5 km ~1.5 hours Moderate

Cave Hill Woodland and Summit Walk

This scenic route starts at Hazelwood car park, winding through the lush forest before joining the main trail to the summit. Enjoy views of Belfast Lough, the Mourne Mountains, and Scotland across the sea. After reaching the summit, the route descends back through the forest to the starting point.

6 km ~2 hours Moderate

Cave Hill Historical Trail

Explore the historical features of Cave Hill, beginning at Belfast Castle and following a path that passes archaeological sites such as McArt’s Fort. This trail also includes the summit for panoramic views before descending via a different route back to the castle.

8 km ~3 hours Moderate

Cave Hill Extended Ridge Walk

This longer route starts at the Belfast Castle car park and takes in the full ridge of Cave Hill. It offers a more challenging hike with extended views over Belfast and the Antrim Plateau. The return path loops back along a lower trail through the park.

10 km ~4 hours Hard
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Subhump

Elevation

368m

1,207 ft

Prominence

94m

Coordinates

54.6481, -5.9512

J323797

OS Map

15

At the Summit

At the summit, there's a prominent and iconic Napoleon's Nose rock formation, alongside impressive views and a historical ruin.

Terrain & Geology

Varied; features rocky paths grassy areas and some steep sections.

Cave Hill is primarily composed of basaltic rock, a remnant of ancient volcanic activity which gives it its impressive cliffs and characteristic shape. The site is also rich in limestone, creating a stunning contrast in rock types.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, one can see Belfast Lough, the Mourne Mountains, and on clear days, Scotland's coast.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Cave Hill' is derived from the limestone caves found within its cliffs, which historically offered shelter to local wildlife.

Historical Significance

Cave Hill is steeped in local lore and has significant historical importance, being a site of various archaeological finds and a strategic lookout during many historical conflicts.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is ample parking available at several points around Cave Hill Country Park, notably at the Hampton Park entrance.

Public Transport

Belfast City has various bus routes that connect to Cave Hill. The nearest bus stop is a short walk from the park.

Nearby Facilities

Cave Hill Country Park has picnic areas and basic restroom facilities available; for cafes, the nearby village of Glengormley offers more options.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Steep sections can be slippery in wet weather; take care on rocky paths and during winter months when the terrain may be icy.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Cave Hill?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Cave Hill through the maps

Are there other walkers around Cave Hill?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Cave Hill search or of course create your own walk for Cave Hill

Can I organise a walk to Cave Hill?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Cave Hill.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Cave Hill?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Cave Hill here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

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Grid reference: J323797

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