Stormont Estate - Belfast

Just like Botanic Gardens, this was a spot I spent a lot of time in during my first year of living in Belfast. The nursery, where I was working, was just beside the park, so I had many lunch breaks spent in the grass or on a bench in Stormont Estate.

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Stormont Park, or Stormont Estate, is a park located East of Belfast. You can get here by car, but also the city Gliders stop just outside. The entrance is free and there is a lot to see and do. Just keep in mind that parking is usually full and you might have to park on a side street further away from the entrance, which might be a bit tricky if you don't know the area.

"In the whole park there are usually figures placed in different places, which brings more life to the forest."

The main attraction of the park is that you can find the parliament building here, right of the top of the hill! The building was designed by an Arnold Thornely and it opened in 1932. Even though you are not allowed to enter the building you can see it from outside, and enjoy the view from the top! Here you can also stumble upon a few protests from the public.

There are also a lot of beautiful trails to follow across the big estate. You can choose to go to the right or to the left when entering the gates. To the right you can find a play park, football area, picnic/barbecue facilities, a dog park and more. To the left you can follow a trail that leads up in the forest. In the whole park there are usually figures placed in different places, which brings more life to the forest.

Our main reason nowadays to visit the park is because of the dog park. We would take our dog Ollie there as it is a big area with gates surrounding it, so there is no way for him to escape. Here you have not only water bowls placed for the dogs, but also tiny pools if your dog needs to (or wants to) cool down. There is plenty of room for running around and meeting other dog owners, or just to do your own training with your dog, or go for a wee stroll.

If you are more of an exercise-junkie you can try out the outside gym equipment that is scattered across the park. If you rather prefer to bring your kids, the Mo Mowlam Play Park is a newly renovated park where you can find different areas for your children to learn while playing. Either way I think the park holds something for everyone who decides to visit, and it is a great spot for a summers day, and a go to place getting those dreamy autumn photos!

~ linnity