8k Run Purdysburn: Scenic Loop along River Lagan

Route Overview & Local Insights

Experience the perfect blend of riverside tranquility and woodland trails on this 7.7km double-loop through Belvoir Park Forest. Starting from the Forestside Brew car park, you'll tackle a predominantly paved course that features gentle undulations and a cheeky 55m total ascent, making it an ideal choice for runners looking to build strength without excessive climbing. The route hugs the scenic banks of the River Lagan before transitioning into the ancient canopy of the forest, offering a diverse mix of flat riverside paths and winding parkland trails that stay relatively sheltered from the elements.

Located in Purdysburn, just on the outskirts of Belfast, Belvoir Park is a site steeped in history. As you navigate the second loop, you’ll run in the shadow of the 13th-century Norman Motte, a massive earthwork that once served as a defensive fortification overlooking the Lagan Valley. Once the estate of the Hill family, the "Beautiful View" (Belvoir) now serves as a vital green lung for the city. Local runners cherish this area not just for its heritage, but for its thriving wildlife; keep an eye out for kingfishers by the water's edge and red squirrels among the towering beech trees as you complete your circuit.