Glenarm Forest

The forest is small, but has a wide variety of tree species growing under excellent conditions of soil and climate. Throughout the forest the tree species such as oak, ash, beech, sycamore, Japanese larch, Sitka spruce.

The entrance to Glenarm Forest is off Altmore Street in the village of Glenarm. Glenarm lies on the A2 coast road, 4 miles south of Carnlough and 11 miles north of Larne.

These are circular walks, all off-road, and there are two signed routes. Yellow route – 0.5 mile (0.8km) red route – 2 miles (3.2km)

There are easy walks within the forest with parts beside the Glenarm River.

The Forest Service car park is about 150 m through the ‘Town Gate’ at the top of Altmore Street in Glenarm Village.

Public conveniences, refreshments and accommodation are available in Glenarm village, Glenarm Tourist Information Centre is open all year.

Yellow route – 0.5 miles, 10 minutes.

Grade; easy

From the car park go through the barrier and follow the yellow arrow sign to your right. This gentle path takes you to the edge of Glenarm river and a short distance along the bank. A picnic site is provided under a delightful tree canopy and is an ideal location for a rest or meal. Keep on the path and it re-joins the main path back to the car park.

Red route – 2 miles, 40 minutes – grade: easy

From the car park go through the barrier of the two tracks ahead, take the one on the left. Follow the red route arrows along the forest track. This is again, a very gentle walk in pleasant and quiet surroundings. Along the way, breaks in the trees allow for views across the glen to Glenarm Estate and Castle, seat of the Earl of Antrim since the 17^th century. Crockan and Drummore hills can also be seen. Keep straight on and cross the bridge over a picturesque stream. The former ‘Layde,’ can be seen on your left as you approach the top of the next hill. This is an artificial waterway that was used to carry water down to industries in the village. The arrows soon direct you to the right to begin the return journey along the lower slopes of the glen towards the banks of the Glenarm river. While alongside the river, if you are lucky you may catch a sighting of an otter, heron, dipper or kingfisher.

information above from Walk NI

Photo by Billy Mcwilliams