Northern Ireland

Three new adventure trails opened at Stormont Estate in Belfast

Allan Hamilton (left) from Brilliant Trails Ltd with Duncan Morris, Laura Morgan and Gina Brown of the Stormont Estate Management Unit at the launch of Stormont Estate new adventure trails
Allan Hamilton (left) from Brilliant Trails Ltd with Duncan Morris, Laura Morgan and Gina Brown of the Stormont Estate Management Unit at the launch of Stormont Estate new adventure trails Allan Hamilton (left) from Brilliant Trails Ltd with Duncan Morris, Laura Morgan and Gina Brown of the Stormont Estate Management Unit at the launch of Stormont Estate new adventure trails

THREE new adventure trails, spanning more than 1.5 miles, have been launched at Stormont Estate in Belfast.

The new initiative has been designed to encourage locals and visitors to the area to learn more about the environment, wildlife and history of the estate.

The trails are supported by an interactive map and quiz and encompass three main themes showcasing the richness of the woodland and natural environment as well as detail the history that shaped the area.

All trails are free of charge and open seven days a week.

A Department of Finance spokesman said the trails aim to "promote and enhance the Stormont Estate as a visitor and tourist attraction".

"The introduction of the trails will help to connect visitors, families and particularly young people with the rich biodiversity of the Stormont woodlands and provide an insight into the history of the estate," he said.

Features included in the sensory woodland trail at Stormont Estate
Features included in the sensory woodland trail at Stormont Estate Features included in the sensory woodland trail at Stormont Estate
Features included in the sensory woodland trail at Stormont Estate
Features included in the sensory woodland trail at Stormont Estate Features included in the sensory woodland trail at Stormont Estate

"Feedback from the opening of the trails has been very positive and the Stormont Estate Management Team is delighted with the initial public reaction to the trails, which are a great addition to the beautiful estate grounds."

Allan Hamilton from Brilliant Trails, who have designed the project, said: "We are delighted to see so many visitors at Stormont.

"Our sensory trails are designed to provide a unique opportunity to explore, learn new facts and interact with the local environment. It’s a different way of learning and provides an experience that everyone can get involved in."