South Belfast has some of Belfast’s most beautiful parks perfect for sunbathing and picnics, leisurely walks and jogs, there’s always a reason to visit.
Along with being perfect for relaxing, here are our favourite parks in South Belfast along with some of their summer activities.
1. Botanic Gardens
Botanic Gardens is located beside Queen’s University Belfast and is home to the Palm House and Tropical Ravine. The Palm House is made from curved iron and glass and allowed horticulturists during the Victorian period to grow exotic plants. Today it still is home to a range of tropical plants, birds of paradise and seasonal displays. Botanic Gardens is also home to the Topical Ravine which recently completed renovation works. It contains banana, cinnamon and orchid plans and dates back to 1889.WHAT’S ON:Belfast Mela, 26th August2. Sir Thomas & Lady Dixon Park
Home to City of Belfast International Rose Garden, attracting swathes of visitors every July for Rose Week Celebrations.The park is over 128 acres including meadows, woodland, gardens, trails, walled and Japanese style garden with water features.The park was donated to the people of Belfast by Lady Dixon in the late 1950s in memory of her late husband, Sir Thomas.WHAT’S ON:Live Music, Silver Band, 1st July, 3-4pmRose Week, 16-22 July3. Drumglass Park
Situated on the Lisburn Road, this park opened in the mid-1920s and is close to several ice-cream parlours and coffee shops.The park was initially named after Henry Musgrave, who lived in Drumglass House, the original gatehouse of Drumglass House is located at the Lisburn Road entrance to the park. Musgrave donated six acres of his estate to the city to be used as a public park or children’s playground.WHAT’S ON:Kids Summer Fun Day (5-12 year olds), 3rd July, 2-4.30pm4. Ormeau Park
The park includes football pitches, bowling greens, a BMX track, basketball and tennis courts alongside a children’s playground.The park was home to the Donegall Family, who lend their name to streets in the city such as Donegall Quay and Donegall Place.The park is accessible from both the Ormeau and Ravenhill Roads.WHAT’S ON:Walk & Sketch, 26th August5. Lower Crescent Park
This park is located just off Botanic Avenue and University Road and is perfect for quiet reflection with several seating areas and occasion festivals and music performances. WHAT’S ON:Live Jazz, 26th July, 12.30-2.30pmYou can find out more about these events and more here!
