McArt's Fort
ENTRY
Free
SETTING
Outdoors
WHERE
Belfast
What it’s like
A free walk up Cavehill to an ancient hilltop fort with archaeological remains and views over Belfast.
This is a walk before it's anything else, up Cavehill on trails that range from easy to properly steep, ending at the earthwork remains of McArt's Fort itself. There's no admission charge, which makes it an easy yes for an afternoon, but don't mistake free for effortless. The site itself is upfront that the main trail wants sturdy shoes and a decent level of fitness, so this isn't one for a buggy or for anyone who tires halfway up a hill.
Along the way there are archaeological sites to poke around, and the fort at the top is the bit everyone's aiming for, an ancient hillfort with a real sense of having been there a very long time. Pack a picnic, because there are designated spots for exactly that, and older kids who like a proper trek with a payoff at the end will get the most out of it.
One thing to know before you set off: the Cavehill Trail between Devil's Punchbowl and McArt's Fort is only partially open because of erosion, so check which route you're taking up before you commit to it. Opening hours run from 7:30am daily, with closing time sliding earlier as the year goes on, down to 4:30pm in the depths of winter, so a late-afternoon start in November will catch you out.
No car parking is mentioned, but the Metro bus no.1 gets you close, running the A-H route Monday to Saturday and C-E or H on Sundays. It's a straightforward way to get up without worrying about where to leave the car.
Facilities
Need to know
- Best for
- Older kids who can manage a steep, proper walk
- Getting there by bus or train
- Metro bus no.1 A-H (Mon-Sat) or no.1 C-E or H (Sundays)
- Sturdy shoes are a must, this isn't a trainers-and-buggy sort of walk
- Closing times shift a lot through the year, from 7:30pm to 4:30pm
- Part of the Cavehill Trail near the fort is shut for erosion, so plan your route
- No car parking is listed, but the Metro bus no.1 runs close by
Plan your visit
Is it free to visit?
Yes, there's no entry charge for McArt's Fort or the surrounding trails.
Do we need to book?
There's no booking link and you can just turn up.
Is the walk suitable for a buggy?
Not really. The main trail needs sturdy walking shoes and a good level of fitness, so it's better suited to kids who can manage a proper walk themselves.
What time does it open and close?
It opens at 7:30am every day, but closing time changes with the season, from 7:30pm in September down to 4:30pm in winter.
Can we take a picnic?
There are designated picnic areas along the trails, so it's worth packing one.
Is the whole trail open?
Not currently. The Cavehill Trail between Devil's Punchbowl and McArt's Fort is partially closed due to erosion, so double check your route before setting off.
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