Redburn Country Park

## Overview Redburn Country Park is a charming natural retreat nestled in the hills above Holywood in County Down, Northern Ireland. Covering approximately 30 acres of mixed woodland, scrub, and grassland, the park features a public drinking spring that has historically served as a freshwater source for visitors exploring the area. The spring is situated within the park's wooded landscape, where natural water flows down through the hillside terrain. The park sits on the slopes overlooking Belfast Lough, offering fine views across the water. Its woodland is predominantly composed of mature deciduous trees that create a lush canopy, particularly striking in spring when the forest floor transforms into a spectacular carpet of bluebells and wood sorrel. ## Directions 1. From Belfast, head east along the A2 coastal road toward Holywood, County Down. 2. In Holywood, look for signs directing you to Redburn Country Park — the park entrance is located on the southern edge of the town, on the hillside above. 3. GPS coordinates: **54.625612, -5.83271** — use these if navigating by sat-nav, as the park can be easy to miss from the main road. 4. There is a small car park at the entrance. From there, follow the marked trails into the woodland to locate the spring. ## What to Expect Redburn Country Park offers pleasant walking throughout the year, but spring is widely considered the best season to visit. During April and May, the woodland floor is blanketed with bluebells and wood sorrel, creating one of the most picturesque wildflower displays in the area. The hilltop is covered with scrub and open grassland, providing a contrast to the sheltered woodland below. Birdwatchers will find plenty to enjoy — the woods are home to tits, finches, and other resident species. In summer, blackcaps and willow warblers can be spotted in the scrubby gorse areas near the top of the hill. The park's most elusive resident, the red squirrel, is often seen darting through the open glades and is a highlight for many visitors. The public drinking spring within the park has been used by visitors over the years, though as with any natural water source, the water quality can vary and has not been independently verified. Visitors have historically used it as a drinking water source, but conditions may change seasonally. The terrain involves some uphill walking, so sturdy footwear is recommended, especially in wet weather when paths can become muddy. The park is free to enter and open year-round.