Skip to content
A river and footpath framed by trees at Minnowburn, Northern Ireland
A footpath alongside the Lagan River near Minnowburn, Belfast | © National Trust Images/John Miller
Northern Ireland

Riverside circular walk at Minnowburn

Starting in Minnowburn, this leisurely walk follows the banks of the River Lagan into the heart of the Lagan Valley Regional Park and Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with an optional detour to the historic village of Edenderry.

Total steps: 7

Total steps: 7

Start point

Minnowburn car park, grid ref: NW445242

Step 1

From the car park, take one of the paths down to the Lagan riverside and follow the path along the bank upstream. It will take you past Edenderry Nature Reserve and the old Edenderry House estate, and almost to the village itself.

Step 2

If you want to pay a visit to Edenberry village, take the path to the left just after the brown wooden Gilchrist Bridge. Otherwise, cross the bridge and follow the tarmac Lagan towpath back downstream.

Step 3

Follow the towpath past Barnett Demesne on your left, up to Shaw's Bridge, past the boathouse and through the gate into the Shaw's Bridge car park.

Step 4

Follow the path under the new road bridge then take the path to the right, which runs through an avenue of trees parallel to the river.

Shaw's Bridge and River Lagan at Minnowburn, County Down
Shaw's Bridge and River Lagan at Minnowburn | © National Trust Images/Paul Moan

Step 5

Continue along this path through Clement Wilson Park until it reaches New Forge Lane. Turn right and follow the road past the car park on your right to the bridge back over the river. Continue along this path to the Lock Keeper's Cottage and Inn.

Step 6

Just after the lock, cross the stone bridge over the canal and follow the path back to Shaw's Bridge.

Step 7

Passing under the new and old bridges, follow the riverside path past the three meadows back to Minnowburn Bridge. Cross the bridge to return to the car park.

End point

Minnowburn car park, grid ref: NW445242

Trail map

Ordnance Survey map of the riverside walk at Minnowburn, Northern Ireland
The riverside walk at Minnowburn, Northern Ireland | © Crown copyright and database rights 2013 Ordnance Survey

You made it

Share your experience

More near here

Fallen leaves on the Giants Ring trail
Trail
Trail

Giant's Ring circular walk at Minnowburn 

Take a relaxing walk along the river, through woodland and farmland, to a Neolithic earthwork, a natural amphitheatre and views across the Lagan Valley.

Activities
Walking
DistanceMiles: 2.2 (km: 3.52)

Get in touch

Edenderry Road, Belfast, County Down, BT8 8LE

Our partners

Cotswold Outdoor

We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.

Visit website 

You might also be interested in

Visitors at Minnowburn, County Down, Northern Ireland
Article
Article

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.

Bridge over River Lagan, Minnowburn, Northern Ireland
Article
Article

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.

Family exploring the Christmas trail at Rowallane Garden, County Down

Walking in Northern Ireland 

Step into Northern Ireland’s enchanting landscapes this Christmas season and feel the warmth of its festive welcome. Whether you’re strolling or hiking, iconic sites like the Giant's Causeway invite you to explore coastal paths glistening with winter’s charm, while ancient bogs whisper their tales along frost-touched boardwalks.

A man and a woman enjoy the view whilst walking in the Peak District
Article
Article

Cotswold Outdoor: our exclusive walking partner 

Learn about the National Trust’s ongoing partnership with Cotswold Outdoor. Find out how they help us care for precious places and the exclusive discount available for National Trust supporters.

An aerial view of an adult and baby walking a dog along a path at Baggy Point, Devon
Article
Article

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.

A visitor carrying a backpack and walking along a footpath at Divis and the Black Mountain with stone walls either side, the countryside visible in the background.
Article
Article

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.

A family walking alongside Lake Windermere at Fell Foot during winter, Cumbria

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.