A glorious sunny day greeted sun seekers who came on our Carnmoney spring walk.

Partnership Manager Dr Jim Bradley led walkers of all ages through hazel groves and among oceans of bluebells and other flowers that threw a spring carpet over the old woodland.

Staff and volunteers who help run and manage the Woodland Trust site have continued with their sterling work in upgrading paths, planting native trees and even opening the new wildlife water world haven of  ‘Rabb’s Pond’. The pond was originally dredged by community volunteers in 1995. The Woodland Trust enchanced the area last year installing an improved pathway to allow users to access “a secret corner of nature”.

Walkers on the tour were also able to see a wooden bench sculpture by Owen Crawford, designed by local children.

Wildlife is also flocking to the pond at the entrance to the site and Jim Bradley said the success of this wonderful and peaceful oasis of woodland in the heart of Belfast was also in a large part down to the continuing efforts of local people in the Rathcoole area.

“This site is always improving and it’s clear that Carnmoney Hill is becoming a real jewel in the public sites in the Belfast Hills,” he said.

 

To find out more about Carnmoney Hill and how to get there, click here.