Key Takeaways

• Belfast offers a unique mix of urban landmarks, riverside paths, and nearby trail runs.
• The River Lagan loop provides an accessible, scenic waterfront route through the city.
• Stormont Estate combines historic surroundings with wide, tree-lined running paths.
• Cave Hill Country Park delivers panoramic city views and a challenging uphill section.
• Divis and Black Mountain trails suit experienced runners seeking elevation and open landscapes.

Commercial director at the Belfast based Copius Group, Gareth Booth works on expansion strategies for an engineering and contracting business active on European power and infrastructure projects. His background spans operational leadership, finance, and governance, including senior roles guiding private equity investment processes and due diligence, and directing day to day operations for Mercedes Benz franchises across south England and northern Ireland. He is known for building finance and operational teams and for introducing technology led processes that improve efficiency, strengthen compliance, and support clearer objectives.

A lifelong runner who also keeps bees, he draws on local knowledge and an interest in the outdoors to highlight routes that combine city landmarks with riverside paths, parkland, and nearby trails across Belfast and its surrounding green spaces.

A Look at Some of the Most Scenic Running Routes in Belfast

Overlooking the banks of the River Lagan, Belfast is a beautiful city that is rich in history and scenic landscapes, making it a great place for urban or trail running. The capital of Northern Ireland boasts an iconic city centre with key landmarks like Queen’s University Belfast, St Anne’s Cathedral and Albert Memorial Clock. In addition, there are multi-use trails along the River Lagan, expansive green spaces at Ormeau Park and Cave Hill Country Park, and open running space just outside the city on the grounds of Stormont Estate.

Runners can see most of the compact city’s signature landmarks by taking a 10-kilometre sightseeing run. Beginning at Ormeau Road, run along the Stranmillis Embankment between the River Lagan and Botanic Gardens, heading towards Stranmillis College. Turn right on Malone Road near the US consulate and run towards the heart of downtown, making sure to pass Queen’s University, Ulster Museum and Friar’s Bush Graveyard, Belfast’s oldest Christian burial ground, which is known for its arched gothic gate-lodge entrance.

After passing through Donegal and Dublin Road, run through the city’s central shopping area and take a right on Linehall Street towards Belfast City Hall. Eventually, you’ll run past other landmarks, including Belfast Central Library and Buoy Park, heading back towards the River Lagan through St Anne’s Square and Queen’s Square.

The River Lagan loop, covering nearly 10 kilometres of waterfront multi-use paths and embankment roads, is another great option for a scenic run in the city. There are also several bridges crossing the river, allowing runners to complete a loop in shorter distances. The full loop passes landmarks like the Titanic site, Science Museum and Governor’s Bridge.

The Stormont Estate, home to the Parliament of Northern Ireland and other government buildings, is another good option for a city run. Located about 10 kilometres east of Belfast, the property has a large green space approaching parliament, woodland trails and several other paths circling the grounds. The 1.2-kilometre path to parliament via a wide road with grand trees on either side is the highlight of the run. There’s a weekly 5-kilometre run here every Saturday morning.

In addition, there are more than 3,000 acres of green parks in Belfast. For a more peaceful run away from busy streets and noise pollution, head to Cave Hill Country Park. The Belfast landmark has several historic and natural features, including Belfast Castle. The most popular running route in the park is a 7.2-kilometre loop that begins at the castle and passes through McArt’s Fort, which offers spectacular views of the city and surrounding area. This loop involves about 1 kilometre of uphill running towards the clifftop fort, so take a minute to rest and snap some pictures of the sprawling city, if needed.

For a greater challenge on open heath land, head towards Divis and the Black Mountain trails. This national landmark, which also offers panoramic views of the city, as well as the Mourne Mountains and Antrim Plateau, has two hilly loop trails: the moderate 6.7-kilometre Black Mountain Ridge Trail and the much steeper, 4.8-kilometre summit trail. Autumn is the best time to attempt these treks, as much of the land is covered in purple devil’s-bit scabious.

FAQs

What makes Belfast a good city for running?

Belfast is compact and scenic, allowing runners to combine historic landmarks with riverside and park routes. Its variety of terrain suits both casual and experienced runners.

Which route is best for a sightseeing run?

A 10-kilometre city loop passing Queen’s University, City Hall, and the River Lagan showcases many key landmarks. It’s ideal for runners who want a cultural overview of the city.

Are there traffic-free running options in Belfast?

Yes, areas like the River Lagan paths, Stormont Estate, and Cave Hill Country Park offer routes away from busy roads. These spaces provide a calmer running environment.

What is the most challenging run near Belfast?

The Divis and Black Mountain trails offer steep climbs and exposed terrain. These routes reward runners with sweeping views across Belfast and beyond.

Who is Gareth Booth?

Gareth Booth is the commercial director of Copius Group with a background in operations and finance. He is also a lifelong runner who shares local insights into Belfast’s best routes.

About Gareth Booth

He is the commercial director of Copius Group, where he supports growth strategies for an engineering and contracting firm working on European power and infrastructure projects. An associate member of the Chartered Management Institute and a member of the Institute of Directors, Booth has held senior roles with Inspired Business Investments, the Bank of London, and MetaCompliance, with experience spanning operations, finance, compliance, and mergers and acquisitions. Outside work, he runs and keeps three active hives, harvesting honey twice a year.