Cave Hill Group Walks | Join a Walk
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Elevation
368m
1,207 ft
Prominence
94m
Coordinates
54.6481, -5.9512
J323797
OS Map
15
At the summit, there's a prominent and iconic Napoleon's Nose rock formation, alongside impressive views and a historical ruin.
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.
From the summit, one can see Belfast Lough, the Mourne Mountains, and on clear days, Scotland's coast.
The name 'Cave Hill' is derived from the limestone caves found within its cliffs, which historically offered shelter to local wildlife.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
There is ample parking available at several points around Cave Hill Country Park, notably at the Hampton Park entrance.
Belfast City has various bus routes that connect to Cave Hill. The nearest bus stop is a short walk from the park.
Cave Hill Country Park has picnic areas and basic restroom facilities available; for cafes, the nearby village of Glengormley offers more options.
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Some common questions about the hills answered
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Cave Hill through the maps
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
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.
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.
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
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Grid Ref: J323797
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