12 Amazing Waterfalls In Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland is full of hidden gems and enchanting places to go. This post lists the top 12 waterfalls in Northern Ireland.
There is a number of stunning waterfalls across the country which have breathtaking views. If you are feeling brave you can take a dip in the wild, in one of the pools of water at these waterfalls.
Waterfalls have been subject to folktales and legends, symbolising portals to other worlds, renewal and magic. Keep reading to find out what destinations were used as filming locations in the Game of Thrones.
Dunne Waterfall
Dunne Waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls in Northern Ireland. This waterfall is located along the north coast of Northern Ireland, near the village of Castlerock.
At this waterfall, you can walk behind it and have the water pour over your head. Nearby there is a beautiful beach, called Downhill Beach.
Also, there is a temple called Mussenden Temple. Dunne Waterfall is one of the most fairy tale spots in Northern Ireland. Overall, the coastline in this part of Ireland is truly amazing and it is a great sight to look at.
Dunseverick Falls
Dunseverick Falls is a narrow river rapid waterfall which tumbles off the edge of a small rock face into the swirling sea below. This is one of the waterfalls in Northern Ireland that is a highlight along the north coast’s rugged coastal section.
Dunsverick Falls is sometimes described as the Giant’s Causeway with water rapids. The rock is made from a similar type of stone as the Giant’s Causeway.
It is not recommended to swim in the pool of water here due to the sharp edges of the rock.
Glenoe Waterfalls
Glenoe Waterfalls (sometimes referred to as Gleno) are a charming set of waterfalls not far from the village of Glenoe, near Belfast. There is a little woodland walk which takes you through the narrow glen.
At the top of the hollow, you will be rewarded with an impressive set of waterfalls. Glenoe Waterfall is a magnificent 30-foot waterfall hidden deep in the glens of Antrim.
The glen looks very majestic and it is covered in greenery including ferns and moss. Springtime is one of the best times to visit as the waterfall is more powerful and the leaves start to bloom.
The views here are something more comparable to New Zealand. One of the great things about Glenoe is that you can swim in the pool at the bottom.
As you can imagine this is a popular destination in the summer and the car park fills up quickly. There are steps to climb along the route. The falls are not far from the car park.
It is best to wear suitable walking shoes for embarking on this adventure. It is well worth the trek to find this beauty.
This waterfall is owned by National Trust. There is a car park, picnic tables and metal shelves for BBQs.
Cranny Falls
Cranny Falls is located in Co Antrim, in the seaside village of Carnlough. The falls are just under an hour’s drive north of Belfast.
This is a very photogenic waterfall and there is the opportunity to swim in the pool at the bottom of the falls. Cranny Falls is a nice 1.5-kilometre walk from the car park.
To get to the waterfalls, beside the ‘Harbour Lights’ building in Carnlough, take the steps going uphill. From here, follow the path left, past Gortin Quarry.
This is a lovely remote location, and the area around Cranny Falls is superb. With colourful pathways and charming views, it is a perfect destination for nature lovers and hikers.
This stop is more of a hidden gem compared to other waterfalls on this list.
Glenariff Waterfall Walkway
One of the famous nine Glens of Antrim, it is definitely one to add to your bucket list for waterfalls in Northern Ireland. Glenariff is home to some of the most popular waterfalls in Northern Ireland.
In Glenariff Forest Park, there is a three-mile trail which is known as ‘Waterfall Walkway’. This walk takes less than an hour to complete.
There are three spectacular waterfalls along the route. At the waterfalls, you will feel like you are somewhere more exotic (minus the weather).
Overall, this is a popular National Nature Reserve for experienced photographers and hillwalkers. You will feel like you are in a different world in this beautiful woodland.
One of the most photographed waterfalls is pollna, on the Glenariff River. There is an entrance fee to the park, also, there is a visitor centre and a gift shop.
At the Forest Park car park, there is a shop which is open during the summer season. Also, there is a Manor Lodge Restaurant which marks the halfway mark of the walk. Glenariff Forest Park is a one-hour drive north of Belfast.
Tollymore Forest
Tollymore Forest is where you will find one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Northern Ireland. This forest is a large forest park, spanning an area of 630 hectares.
The forest park is located at the foot of the iconic Mourne Mountains, not too far from the settlement of Newcastle. This is a beautiful park, with a number of trails at varying lengths that visitors can explore.
Also, the park is the filming location of the Games of Thrones. The waterfalls are located on the River Shimna, which flows through the centre of the forest park.
To get to the waterfall simply follow the noises from the rumbling waters.
Drummoney Falls
Drummoney Falls is one of the smallest waterfalls in Northern Ireland. However, do not let the lack of height fool you into how powerful and impressive these waterfalls can be.
These waterfalls are located in Kesh near Enniskillen. This is a continuous waterfall and is very relaxing to watch.
Visitors can enjoy a short walk through the woods, and walk up the concrete steps to get a stunning view of the falls. There is a small car park which is suitable for approximately five to six cars.
Blackslee Waterfall
Blackslee Waterfall is located in the southwest area of Northern Ireland. This waterfall is a feature of one of the best walking trails in the country.
There is a 6-kilometre route to follow through the Lough Navar Forest. Some parts of the trail are trickier than others parts, with poor paths along the way.
The waterfall is located in the middle of the circular route, therefore make sure you are prepared with all the correct walking equipment. Overall, the walk is 100% worth it for the gorgeous views of the falls.
Crawfordsburn Country Park
Crawfordsburn Country Park is located outside Belfast, next to Bangor. This country park has a lot to offer and it is one of the most popular country parks in Northern Ireland.
There is a unique waterfall in the woodlands of the country park which twists and turns and follows a big drop. The water plummets into a small pool at the bottom. It is a very relaxing atmosphere.
Sloughan Glen Springs
Sloughan Glen Waterfall is situated in Drumquin, Omagh, Co Tyrone. This is a lovely place for a walk, there is a well-maintained river walk.
It takes approximately 20 minutes to view this waterfall and to get back to the car park. There is a good sized car park and picnic area.
Linn Falls
Linn Falls is one of the smaller well-known waterfalls in Northern Ireland. These falls are located outside Larne, on the east coast of Northern Ireland.
The best way to access is by Killyglen roadside. The surrounding countryside is also a lovely place to go for a hike.
Secret Mourne Mountains Waterfall
This waterfall is a hidden treasure located deep in the Mourne Mountains. Secret Mourne Mountains Waterfall is located between Ben Crom Reservoir and Hare’s Gap.
This is one of the most impressive images of the waterfalls in Northern Ireland that I have seen.
This is a hidden gem and the people of Ireland do not know this waterfall exists. It is private and secluded and you can swim in it too.
What is the biggest Waterfall in Northern Ireland?
One of the highest waterfalls in Northern Ireland is located in Ness Wood.
What is the highest waterfall in Ireland?
The waterfall in Ness Wood is not quite the highest waterfall on the Island of Ireland.
Powerscourt Waterfall stands 121 metres tall, making it the highest waterfall in Ireland. Located at the foot of the Wicklow Mountains on the Powerscourt Estate.
Final Note
This post lists the top 14 waterfalls in Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland has beautiful green lush countryside, it is the perfect location for a nature walk.
Also, in Northern Ireland, there is frequent rainfall. A benefit from the rainfall is some stunning powerful waterfalls.
Waterfalls are an excellent feature in forest trails, coastal paths and countryside hikes. Looking for waterfalls is very relaxing and it is great for your well-being.
Make sure when you are heading out to any of these destinations that you are prepared for all types of weather and plenty of mud.
Remember that the appearance of the waterfall depends on how much rain there has been. So take this in mind when planning your trip and change your expectations accordingly.
There are great waterfalls to explore on the islands of Scotland including the Isle of Skye. Head to the Highlands to view waterfalls along the North Coast 500.
There are great waterfalls all over the UK, especially in Scotland near Stirling, Aberdeen and Glasgow, and the Lake District and Northumberland National Park.