Weds 29th Dec 2021
Divis & Belfast
The last walking day of the Spartan calendar for 2021 saw a choice of 2 different walks on offer. The morning one up Divis was led by Frank and the evening walk in Belfast was led by David. The morning weather was dry and mild but very windy. It certainly helped to blow away any Christmas cobwebs as well as the odd hat and almost a few Spartans!! It was good to get the legs stretched and everyone enjoyed the exercise despite the wind. The evening weather was also dry and mild and thankfully a lot less windy. We started at QUB and walked towards the city centre stopping every so often to listen to the history of some of the many floodlit buildings we passed along the way. It was lovely to walk along the almost deserted streets admiring the Christmas lights. Some of us finished off with some welcome liquid refreshments in Pug Ugly's ( Morrisons in old money!!). Many thanks to both Frank and David. |
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Weds 15th Dec 2021
Belfast walking tour
We had the full complement of 15 on this slightly different ‘Spartan’ walk. A clear dry day meant that we could take time to view some of the hidden gems of our capital city, often missed when visiting Belfast for various other reasons.
We started at the Linenhall Library, where many members of the group had already enjoyed a morning coffee, in the hallowed space of the Linen Hall café, with panoramic views over Donegall Square. We meandered past the Christmas market and stopped at the original Titanic Memorial unveiled in 1920, and then continued to May Street Presbyterian Church, which was originally designed to seat 1,700 people! Moving on, we made our way down through the Legal Quarter to the waterfront, where I spied a little Victorian building, which had often made me curious, but I knew nothing about. Jessica came to the rescue, explaining it was the former Oxford Street Storm Overflow Pumping station, now empty and ready for a creative re-use. The walk ended with a stroll through the original lanes of the former town of Belfast, and the sight of the most recent Henry Joy McCracken statue. The tour finished at Arthur Square after 2 hour 30 minutes, when we dispersed to various locations for lunch and a welcome chance to catch up before Christmas. Pat |
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Weds 8th Dec 2021
Ballygally to Carnfunnock
A small but undeterred band of 6 Spartans braved the wet and windy forecast, meeting in Ballygally for the walk. Conditions were very kind to us with some sunshine, and just the very occasional short light shower, as we worked our way up Daffodil Lane, and through Chaine’s Wood to the back of Carnfunnock Park. After a short stop at the Ice House at the back of the park we passed by the old Cairndhu House which was once a convalescent home but is now in a poor state of repair. We left the park and went to the coast walking over the pebbly beach before we had a 5 minute break for a snack. Our route then took us along the path at the edge of Carnfunnock Park to Drains Bay car park where the facilities were useful. On our return journey the weather looked threatening so Damian and Robin made the welcome suggestion that we stop for some refreshments at the visitor centre. For 20 minutes we enjoyed tea/coffee, snacks and good conversation in the dry while the rain poured down. After the rain we tried to visit the walled garden but it was closed due to 2 fallen trees from the previous day’s storm. There was no rain at all on the rest of the reverse walk back to the cars. Everyone was pleased to cover the 11km and about 250m of total ascent in relatively dry and quiet conditions.
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Thanks to Damian for the images.
John Montgomery |
Weds 1st Dec 2021
Clare Glen
Eight sporty Spartans met at Clare Glen near Tandragee, Co Armagh. They came from far and near to explore this little gem of a walk --- from Donaghadee to Portadown and from the bits in between!
Some confused Spartans seemed to think the leader had fluffed up the directions, but sure it all came right in the end! The walk started along the Cusher River which was flowing briskly -- a bit like the chat going on within this jovial bunch! It then diverted out onto a boundary route where prizes were given to the person who first sighted Alpacas in the fields. Noboby was brave enough to pet these perky creatures with their lovely hairstyles! Apparently they ward off dogs or foxes from worrying the sheep. We wandered on down Moodage Road alongside a babbling brook( and that echoed John and Damien's style of chat!). Then we found our way back into the Glen and on to the other side of the river and back along the high paths to the carpark...9 km in total. |
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Since it was our first walk in December, we treated ourselves to a very tasty lunch with some having their first Christmas dinner in Gilberry Fayre. I hope everyone went home tired but happy. Thanks for coming, Elaine.
Weds 24th Nov 2021
Cave Hill
The rain had just cleared as 12 Spartans gathered at the 2 canons at the front of Belfast Castle. After a short discussion about the Palaeogene geological period!! we set off up the hill. Our first stop was at the “elephants’ feet” for a group photo and to enjoy the view of Belfast and Belfast Lough.
We then skirted around the Devil’s Punchbowl and got a good view of the man-made caves which give the hill its name. These caves are thought to be early iron mines. We continued uphill to McArt’s Fort where again there were spectacular views of Belfast and the surrounding area and another good photo opportunity. The trail continues west and downwards and brought us back to the Castle through woodland. Total distance is about 8kms . Most people had brought a lunch and coffee and were able to have this in the Castle gardens in the sunshine. Most were just finishing as very black clouds appeared from the west and north. Picnics were packed up speedily and the dash to the cars was worthy of the old start to the Le Mans 24-hour race. We were so lucky to enjoy our walk in the dry. Dorothy |
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Weds 17th Nov 2021
Drumbeg to Dunmurry
On a beautiful autumnal day a large group of Spartans turned up to the car park at Drumbeg wondering just how they were going to get to Dunmurry from here!! To begin we joined the Lagan Towpath and walked towards the Seymour Hill bridge stopping en route at the remains of the old lock keepers house. Once we crossed the bridge we turned right along the riverside path and headed towards Derriaghy Glen which brought us into Dunmurry. After a short walk along the main road we entered Jubilee park and on to the playing fields at Fullerton Park before making our way along Upper Dunmurry Lane to Lady Dixon Park. The sound of some rumbling tummies declared it was time for lunch and we enjoyed our picnic under the trees before skirting round the perimeter path and back to the car park. A very enjoyable 10km walk among the autumn leaves with plenty of craic and cheeky banter from the usual suspects!! Marian |
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Weds 10th Nov 2021
Ballyleidy to Conlig
The weather was dry & a bit sunny when 17 of us gathered at Ballyleidy Mill, at the Crawfordsburn Road entrance to the Helen’s Tower path. From here we walked along the laneway, through the woods and across Clandeboye Golf Course to the Conlig reservoirs. At the Ross Jord Trout Fishery on the upper reservoir, a friendly fisherman invited us to walk right around the reservoir but to be careful around the fishermen lest we get snarled up in their lines. We spotted the blue plastic contraption tethered in the reservoir used to aerate the water and keep algae at bay. On the way back we took a detour up to Helen’s Tower which is now run as holiday accommodation by the Irish Landmark Trust. The walk was approximately 11.5 kilometres, 7+ miles or 15,000 steps and took about 3 hours including stops. Jessica |
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Weds 3rd Nov 2021
Glenariff
We walked in Glenariff on a gorgeous autumn day. After descending down to the valley bottom to see the Inver waterfall we climbed up to the other side of the valley and walked to the head of the glen. There were more lovely waterfalls and rainbows to be seen as we walked along. We enjoyed good conversation as we covered the 6 miles and 280 meters amidst the beautiful scenery. Isobel |
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Weds 27th Oct 2021
Stormont
Ten Spartans ignored the weather forecast and set off for a walk around Stormont and Belmont parks led by Helen. The carving on the seat we passed advised “ When it rains look for rainbows” No luck on that front but the lovely autumn foliage took our mind off the rain. An enjoyable walk in good company. Thanks to Helen. Mary. |
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Weds 20th Oct 2021
Newtownabbey Way
16 Spartans met in Loughshore car park on a cool but dry morning. We set off up the Newtownabbey Way towards the Bleach Green railway viaducts & continued along the path through Monkstown. Back on the walkway again we reached Mossley Mill, where there is a Garden of remembrance to the First World War, including a replica trench. On our way back we diverted along a new path parallel to the original one which give great views to Knockagh monument & along Belfast Lough. When we returned to the car park the sun appeared just in time for our picnic lunch. Norma |
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Weds 13th Oct 2021
Silent Valley
Despite the best efforts of the Roads Service , 15 Spartans made it to the start of the walk. We followed the lower paths before ascending to the higher level trails, taking in the quarry lake on the Blue trail. After crossing the dam we headed up the road to the the Binnian tunnel before trekking back to the cafe for a late lunch. Thanks to all for the good company and banter. Many thanks to Judy for going the extra mile in rescuing the Spartans stranded on the wrong side of the bridge repair. Stephen and Mary |
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Weds 6th Oct 2021
Belvoir Park Forest
Weds 29th Sept 2021
Comber Greenway
Fourteen of us assembled in Comber square beneath Gillespie's statue. The air was clear and crisp and even a hint of sunshine. We set off up Killinchy Street and down Park Way. The path took us down the river Inler (or Enler if you prefer) which sadly is overcoming with the dreaded Himalayan Balsam. The path petered out and we continued along a muddy path which was more overgrown than expected. We were confronted by a gate covered with barbed wire but all clambered over it to arrive in Castle Lane. We continued along the lane to Comber mainstreet and out the Belfast Road to the Comber Greenway. At the Billy Neill Stadium we circled round the area and had a nearly dry lunch. Returning along the Greenway we had a deserved coffee in the Square. Richard |
Weds 22nd Sept 2021
Orlock
Weds 8th Sept 2021
Doan
Our 13 cars did not fit into the Ott car park but who could blame others for wanting to be in the hills on such a lovely day. After a very warm walk in and climb we were so grateful for a lovely breeze on the top of Doan and to get those 360 degrees view of the central Mournes. Back to the cars at about 2:15, some wanted more sunshine and enjoyed refreshments at Meelmore Lodge. Thank you all for a very memorable day. Barbara |
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Weds 1st Sept 2021
Slieve Croob
Marie McNeill met us at Peter Morgan’s Cottage in Finnis where she opened up the car park and the cottage so we could use the facilities – thank-you Marie ! There were nine of us altogether including Martha & Chris – visitors from Maine, USA. From Finnis we walked up Dree Hill, turned along Drin Road & then headed up Pass Loanin’. We had a brief pause to let the sheep past & then carried on out onto the mountain. The weather was a bit overcast but stayed dry. When we reached the top of Slieve Croob, we had a panoramic view including the Mournes, the Sperrins and the Belfast Hills. The Isle of Mann was not visible as the Irish Sea was a bit hazy. We had our picnic lunch at the top enjoying the scenery before walking back down by the same route. According to my phone we walked 9.3 km & 17,600 steps. It was good company, good exercise, good weather, good scenery – all the ingredients for a lovely day out. Jessica |
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Weds 25th Aug2021
Lecale Coast
Weds 18th Aug 2021
Trassey to Newcastle
Spartan Wednesday walkers enjoyed a lie-in on August 18 because the start time of the weekly outing had been put back to 11.30am. The mustering point was Niki’s Kitchen Café at Donard Car Park where all 12 of us enjoyed a cuppa before strolling along the promenade to Newcastle Bus Station. There we produced our Smartpasses (all bar one of our group) and boarded the 12.30pm Mourne Rambler bus. We disembarked at Trassey Road and were soon striding up Trassey track, bound for the Hare’s Gap and the Brandy Pad, No rain, but low cloud enveloped the higher peaks, so we were glad we were keeping relatively low. With a gentle breeze on our backs we made steady progress up the Trassey track. The chat was good but top of the agenda was the promised lunch break at Hare’s Gap, which we reached in one hour 20 minutes from the bus. Happily we found a makeshift bench on the leeward side of the wall so some of us were able to dine in style. The only threat was from a rather bold sheep which seemed to be on the look-out for a spare sandwich. It resisted our efforts to encourage it through the gate, perhaps just as well as there was a flock of sheep further down towards Ben Crom reservoir. Despite the overcast sky, the views from the Brandy Pad were dramatic, and soon we found ourselves at the saddle between Commedagh and Donard, where a further refreshment break was called. The slopes of Donard were comparatively quiet but there were still walkers determinedly heading up into the low cloud to reach the summit. On the descent towards the Glen River we met a few more family groups, clad in all manner of footwear. |
Worryingly, some groups inquired of us whether Donard was to the right or to the left. Just as well several key sections of the stone path have been rebuilt and upgraded, now providing firm footing all the way down from the saddle. Well done to whoever organised this project.
Onward and downward and we reached the car park at 5.30pm, a record late arrival back for a Wednesday walk. Sadly Niki’s was closed so there was nothing for it but to head home. Thanks to all those who took part in the walk, it proved to be a most enjoyable day and a decent bit of exercise. ROBIN MORTON |
Weds 11th Aug 2021
Lead Mines & Helen's Tower
We were unfortunate that the rain started just as we arrived at the car park at the Somme Centre but that didn't stop a hearty bunch of Spartans from heading up to the lead mines at Whitespots Country Park. Lead ore was mined here in the early 1800's and there is still some evidence of those days from old chimney stacks and mine shafts etc. We followed the trail round Clandeboye Golf course towards Conlig getting as much shelter as we could from the forest. On reaching the clubhouse we then headed off in the direction of Helen's Tower. It was here that the 36th Ulster division had their training camp as they prepared to head off to the trenches of The Somme during WW1 where so many of them lost their lives during that fateful day of 1st July 1916. A replica of Helen's Tower stands at Thiepval in memory to those brave young men. We then skirted through some ancient woodland back towards the lead mines and Corry's Crag where on a good day you get some beautiful views. But there were no views today and the rain became even heavier so it was time to head back to the cars. Well done to those Spartans who braved the elements and remained cheery throughout. Marian
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Weds 4th Aug 2021
Dundrum Bay - green posts
On a beautiful Wednesday morning 14 Spartans met to walk the second Wednesday walk in the dundrum region. With two new faces, (Michael and Jacky).
The walk loosely followed a recognised walk that is marked by Green Posts and arrows. Nearly all the usual suspects showed up of whom at least 2 need to hone their email reading skills 😊. And they had the neck to question whether my original email made sense 🤦♂️ LOL. After the first Loop we arrived at the first green post down by the beach and stopped for 10 minutes admiring the view. Heading on to our second loop we had our first stroll into the small forest area. Back by the beach and the green post we had a leisurely lunch. In the distance we could make out small groups of seals enjoying the sunshine on their beach by the Army firing range. After lunch we headed off for our final stretch - winding our way through the forest and onto the beach and then back up into the fern laden paths back to the bridge and the cars. All in all a good bunch of walkers getting clearly the best of the weather for the rest of this week. John |
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Weds 28th July 2021
Donard Wood
13 Spartans met in Donard Park to make our way up through Donard Wood and up a track on Millstone mountain to Drinneevar Quarry. We had lunch there and the views from the quarry were stunning and the mountainside beautiful with a covering of purple and yellow from the heather and whin. After lunch we made our way back down and around the side of Millstone passing the top of the granite trail, the quarry and viewpoint on the side of Thomas’s mountain, the third bridge over the Glen river and through the forest to Donard Park. The walk was a distance of approximately 10 kilometres and 300 metres in height and took three and a half hours. Despite the forecast the weather was kind to us with only a couple of showers. The company and craic was great Everyone said they enjoyed it, Stephen said “it was most satisfactory “ Thank you all for a lovely day, Judy |
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Weds 21st July 2021 (AM)
Ballywalter Byways and beach
Climbing aboard the rickety gangplank of the pirate ship at Ballywalter harbour, was reportedly the most challenging part of the Ballywalter Byways and Beach walk. Five Spartans set off for a quick tour of the alleys and parks of Ballywalter before ascending Windmill Hill. After then climbing Bartleys Hill the route was generally flat, following the quiet roads northwards roughly parallel to the coast, including part of National Cycling Route 99 with just a handful of cyclists, motorists and farm vehicles passing by. With the temperature record for Northern Ireland set to be broken yet again that day, a few stops under tree cover were welcome, including a pause at the recently refurbished former Dunover National School, where there was an opportunity to replenish water bottles. By the time Ballywhisken beach was reached the temperature inland was climbing so the light sea breeze was most welcome. |
The last part of the walk was southwards along the beach as the tide was ebbing, skirting Ballyferris point and the caravan sites of Ballyferris, Rosebank and Sandycove, before reaching Rockmore where welcome refreshments were awaiting. The final km of the 15km walk continued along Ballywalter’s north beach to the harbour. Stephen
Weds 21st July 2021 (PM)
Minnowburn, Giant's Ring, Barnett's Demesne
A small group of Spartans gathered beside the Mary Peters track to partake of the only remaining Wednesday evening walk. This is held to remind us that there is a thing called WORK and some people are still engaged in it. We salute you.
Just before the starting gun fired one Spartan enquired if I had noticed the sign on the front gate saying that the gates closed at 8.30pm. Of couse not. Instant panic and after a short discussion we all re-located to Malone House in Barnett’s Park. Thank you to that eagle- eyed person for averting a disaaaaaaster.
After this one false start we walked to Shaws Bridge , crossed the Lagan , through a meadow and on to Terrace Hill Garden. Here we had a water break and admired the view back across to Malone House with Cavehill behind and the rest of the Belfast Hills.
Then it was on to the Giant’s Ring where we were entertained by Sandra and her fellow yogis. Thank you Sandra – we were amazed at how high you could stick your leg up behind without falling over !! Then it was along a nettley path , through a wooded area , down to the Lagan towpath and back to Malone House.
It was a beautiful summer’s evening and a very enjoyable walk in a scenic part of Belfast.
Just thought I’d check the gate situation as I drove home shortly after 9pm. The gates to Mary Peters track were firmly locked !!! A lucky escape. It would have been a long walk home for Joan and Jim and Carrie if the cars had been locked in the car park. Dorothy
Just before the starting gun fired one Spartan enquired if I had noticed the sign on the front gate saying that the gates closed at 8.30pm. Of couse not. Instant panic and after a short discussion we all re-located to Malone House in Barnett’s Park. Thank you to that eagle- eyed person for averting a disaaaaaaster.
After this one false start we walked to Shaws Bridge , crossed the Lagan , through a meadow and on to Terrace Hill Garden. Here we had a water break and admired the view back across to Malone House with Cavehill behind and the rest of the Belfast Hills.
Then it was on to the Giant’s Ring where we were entertained by Sandra and her fellow yogis. Thank you Sandra – we were amazed at how high you could stick your leg up behind without falling over !! Then it was along a nettley path , through a wooded area , down to the Lagan towpath and back to Malone House.
It was a beautiful summer’s evening and a very enjoyable walk in a scenic part of Belfast.
Just thought I’d check the gate situation as I drove home shortly after 9pm. The gates to Mary Peters track were firmly locked !!! A lucky escape. It would have been a long walk home for Joan and Jim and Carrie if the cars had been locked in the car park. Dorothy
Weds 14th July 2021
Tievedockaragh
12 of us met at Leitrim Lodge carpark. We started off heading south along the Ulster Way as far as Yellow Water. Then we ascended eastwards up a steepish forest road, then north through the forest & out across open ground as far as the Batts Wall, where we stopped for picnic lunch. From there we followed the rodden across Castle Bog & then the path between Altataggart Mountain & Pierces Castle back down to the starting point. The walk was approximately 6 miles / 10 km & took about 3½ hours including stops. The overall ascent was approximately 270m – rather more than the usual Wednesday walks.
The weather was lovely – a bit overcast to begin with but sunny by lunch time. It was lovely to get back into the mountains to enjoy good exercise, good scenery, good weather & good company – all the ingredients of a grand day out ! Jessica |
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Weds 7th July 2021
Quoile River
11 Spartans assembled at the front steps of the St Patrick’s Centre in the middle of Downpatrick on a lovely summer Wednesday morning. We took the steps to the right of the building upwards towards the Museum & onwards past a school and made our way into the big field where the Mound of Down is located. There isn’t that much information available about this impressive structure but we shared what little was available then made our way to the top. We took in the great views and a few photos were taken. We moved onwards leaving the field & crossing the main Crossgar road close to the big sculpture of St Patrick and made our way to the pathway that runs along the side of the river. The river is impressive with lots of wildlife to enjoy. Later we walked along the main road for a short while before rejoining the river walk close to the Quoile bridge. |
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We passed the remains of an old boat a short time later. One spartan recalled her sister swimming around the prow of the boat before work was done to alter the river system to what it is now. We continued to the end of the path & enjoyed a break with lovely views, having our snacks before returning along the path we had already travelled. It was a very enjoyable morning & lovely to spend time & catch up with those who came along. Jo
Weds 30th June 2021
Tollymore
Eleven Spartans met for a walk in Tollymore Forest Park. We took our time doing a variety of trails and stopping for a while in some of the most beautiful areas - Foley's Bridge, Ivy Bridge, the Lake, the Hermitage, the Cascade (not much water in it), the Drinns and Curraghard View point. We had our lunch at the viewpoint and the weather, company and craic was great. The walk was 10km and we were out for just over 3 hours. Thanks to everyone for a lovely day. Judy |
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Weds 23rd June 2021
Loughgall
🎵🎶 There's one fair county in Ireland,with memories so glorious and grand. Where nature has lavished her bounty in the orchards of Erin's green land!!
So Co Armagh, precisely, Loughgall Country Park was our destination for our Wednesday walk. All gathered in the car park,having driven through this pretty village nestled in a hollow,we started out with Helen and Elaine in the lead. No worries about getting lost with these two!!! We aimed for the boundary walk and managed to dodge a golf ball or two as we meandered across the small course slightly off piste!! No worries as we got off the Fairway fast and enjoyed the scenes of orchards,lake,old monuments and a good amount of chat The park is quite extensive offering a variety of walks and, in fact we all managed to pack in two and three quarter hours of fine Orchard County. I'm not sure how many Bramley's were consumed at lunch or at the end,but I think we can say we all enjoyed the day. Elaine |
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Weds 16th June 2021
Blackhead Coastal Path
We started with a brief walk through the Beach Rd Nature Reserve near the old limestone quarry, trying to spot peregrine falcons ( but the birds obviously not constrained by covid regulations were away on holiday that day). Following the Whitehead promenade past the yacht club and very colourful seafront houses we joined the Blackhead coastal path out towards the lighthouse. A feature of note included the old smugglers' caves where a teacher had actually lived for some time in the 1800s - accommodation not likely to get good reviews on trip advisor for today's discerning visitor. The climb up to the impressive lighthouse was about 100 steps, well worth it for the views and a good picnic spot. We looped round on a little bit of country road and back down to the path into Whitehead where Robin showed us the Whitehead Railway Museum and from there back to Beach Rd for lunch.
The walk was about 5 mls, took approx 2 hours, quite flat except for the lighthouse climb and I only took one wrong turn!! A turnout of 16 on a lovely sunny day. Thanks to Robin for sharing a little bit of information on the history of the path and Whitehead area. Moira |
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Weds 9th June 2021
Dundrum Bay - Yellow Posts
A windy, overcast day didn’t stop 21 Spartans heading off on a walk following the yellow posts. Although Claire and Moira did a few extra bits (Talk Talk leading to extra Walk Walk ☺). We were all confident we would not get lost on this walk, after all Elaine had brought her Compass (but no whistle)! 😎Making it to the Sea, a couple of Spartans were about to head to the Slieve Donard Hotel but instead they had to make do with a snack in the Dunes with the rest of us. A walk along the beach in a bracing wind to then turn inland again for Lunch. Meanwhile Claire and Elaine reverted to childhood games and see-sawed their way through Lunch. (Kids at heart). 🎈🎈As we sat a young group of people passed us and we were impressed, after all they were going for a swim (Brrrrrr!). 15 minutes later they reappear retreating to their cars, not a hint of wet hair among them. Heading back to the cars I could hear chit chat all around, a friendly bunch these Spartans! We’ll be back sometime soon to do the Green Post walk.
PS: Noteworthy to mention that Robin managed not to go AWOL this time! 🤗 John (Selection of photos courtesy of Damian and a couple from John) |
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Weds 2nd June 2021
East Belfast
What we lacked in quantity we made up for in quality and the sun did shine for our walk through East Belfast. Parts of the route had remained undiscovered by some of the group so it was a bonus to reveal a few hidden gems. And it was also a bonus for most of us to lunch indoors for the first time this year on our return to Ballyhackamore. Garvin |
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Weds 26th May 2021
Scrabo/Killynether
The walk started from Scrabo Car Park in glorious sunshine and headed first into killynether Wood. Meandering first up to the high point that has such a beautiful panorama out across beautiful farmland towards Belfast in the distance. The beauty created by the wind rippling across the farmland grass in a sea-like caress drew comments from many. Heading down to the lake all was going swimmingly well as we enjoyed the darting of baby ducks on the lake followed by the graceful movement of a young swan that on finding we had no food for it proceeded to try and bite the boots and shins of those who were closest to it. And for the spartan who wanted to know what sound the swan makes (like quack for a duck) as this was a native common swan it makes no sound as its proper name is the mute swan 😊, although they do hiss when angry. From the lake we retraced our steps (well almost), as the leader was not paying attention, we took our first detour. Shame that everyone noticed! as we either ducked under or round the wooden handrail blocking the way. The leader noted that a gang of 3 (Elaine, Damian and Jenny) seemed to enjoy the mistake too much! Back on track we walked on now at a nice leisurely pace heading back to the car park. Here those of us who had snacks or lunch collected them. Heading up the short climb to Scrabo Tower a tiny chink of light for the leader was the gang of 3 were now split with two heading up and one heading for an early seat at the lunch spot. |
Having enjoyed another scenic panorama out over the Ards peninsula we headed to the lunch stop. Its at this point that 6 Spartans who for various reasonable reasons left. The gang of 3 went into full on leg pulling mode.
Second mistake of the day the leader sat down at the table with a local knowledge expert☹. Sitting with the gang of 3 was a bad judgement call. Especially as I could have joined the gentlemen’s table in the shade of the tree or the Women’s table 😊. Having erroneously related to the local expert (Jenny) what the next part of the walk was I really did dig a hole for myself. Up we get to walk over to the steps leading down to the quarry area we took another detour, about turn, and then heading down the right path to the steps to take in the steep quarry walls were peregrines once nested. And Jenny in triplicate “You were right” x 3. As we headed back to the car park in glorious sunshine, I have to say even with all the ribbing I got I think we all had a grand day out. John (All photos courtesy of Damian O’Connor) |
Weds 19th May 2021
Lachan Bog
14 of us made it to the starting point at Lackan Road / Flush Road / Crabtree Road crossorads, after only a few glitches on the way. Ballyroney is very rural ! The weather was sunny with nice fluffy clouds but a few more threatening dark clouds around. We were lucky and did not get rained on at all. We started out on the Green Road Footpath which is a raised path across Lackan Bog. This was the scene of a dramatic rescue when John scaled a fence and a ditch to save a lamb who had put its head through a sheep fence and got stuck. John released the lamb and returned safely only to be faced with another crisis - Marian ‘stuck’ in a stile. We carried on round the circuit, diverting onto High Road to minimise walking on the main Dromara/Rathfriland road. We had a coffee break, disturbed only by the bin lorry offering a lift, and went on to Ballyroney. |
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Ballyroney railway station was on the GNR line between Banbridge and Castlewellan and was the local station for Rathfriland. It was opened in 1880 and used to export beef and dairy products. The line closed in 1955 and the station building is being converted into a private dwelling.
The remaining walk took us on country roads, along the side of the River Bann, on farm lanes and fields to Anahinchego / Hunshigo Lake where we stopped for lunch. It was very pleasant sitting in the sun and looking across the lake to the Mournes (Thank-you Damian for the photo). It was then a short walk back to the starting point. The walk was about 10½ km long and has lovely views south to the mountains. Jessica
The remaining walk took us on country roads, along the side of the River Bann, on farm lanes and fields to Anahinchego / Hunshigo Lake where we stopped for lunch. It was very pleasant sitting in the sun and looking across the lake to the Mournes (Thank-you Damian for the photo). It was then a short walk back to the starting point. The walk was about 10½ km long and has lovely views south to the mountains. Jessica
Weds 12th May 2021
Killyleagh
Seventeen of us gathered in the sunshine in front of Killyleagh castle. We walked the mile to Shrigley along the footpath, stopping to lament the state of the Martin Monument. From there we took the quietish road towards Crossgar, meeting the main Killyleagh to Crossgar road and then turning off at the small road towards Gibb's Island. Gibb's Island was not as muddy as usual and the sun shone the whole way around the island. We spotted a single heron nesting in the pine trees. We then traced our steps into the backway of Delamont Park. We lunched at the lookout point on top of the hill in Delamont. There was a great view over the lough. After lunch, we proceeded past Delamont House and a welcome toilet stop at the facilities. It was a pleasant walk in the sun along the coast road back to Killyleagh. Coffee and some "nice little bits" were acquired and we sat "Continental style" in the sun at the cafe. The walk was about 7 miles in total. Richard |
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Weds 5th May 2021
Glenarm
Met at Glenarm harbour and headed up into the disused quarry for our first views of Glenarm bay, village and castle. After that we headed onto The Layde walk before walking down The Vennel on our way to the entrance to Glenarm forest. A steady climb earned us views out across the valley at the Shorthorn cattle, the tiny ancient church and the estate's wedding venue. After a quick rest and bite to eat we headed back down into the village on the Glenarm river walk to see the Barbican gate and then off for our picnic in a warm sunny spot! 8 miles and 785 feet with good company and thankfully dry weather. Isobel |
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Weds 28th April 2021
Minnowburn & Giant's Ring
After a hastily rearranged starting point due to road resurfacing our 15 strong group headed out into Clement Wilson Park to make our way towards Minnowburn. At the junction of Ballylesson Road with Shaws Bridge there is a lesser known track which leads up into a lovely forest trail which eventually winds it way back down to cross the Ballylesson Road and pops out on the Edenderry Road. We then followed along the trail leading down to the wildlife pond where we saw the first of the many wooden carvings that exist in Minnowburn. We just had to pose for a group photo with this 'Composite Beast'! We then made our way up hill to the Terrace Hill Garden which offered lovely views across to Malone House and the Belfast Hills beyond. From here there is a great track that leads to the ancient site of the Giant's Ring with its stone passage tomb in the centre. Although a familiar site to most of us there were some who had never been here so it was great to be able to introduce this special place. We then headed down to the village of Edenderry and made our way onto the towpath which we followed back to the car park at Minnowburn, then on to Shaw's Bridge and back through Clement Wilson Park to our cars. Some of us then stayed on for a picnic lunch which we enjoyed while sitting in the sun catching up on the chat which we have missed this past while. Marian
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Weds 21st April 2021
Sixmilewater
Glorious day for 14 of us to take in a nice variety of what Antrim has to offer. Starting from the Lough shore car park we walked along the riverside path and over the Deerpark bridge into Antrim Castle gardens. We ambled past the ponds, The Parterre, the Italianate tower and the motte etc before gathering pace for the main body of the walk. We headed up through the town and walked along the banks of the Sixmilewater for a stretch. After some road walking we came back to the Lough shore via Rea's wood for a well deserved picnic lunch! Good chat and catch up enjoyed by all. We covered nearly 9 miles in 3 hours (plus sightseeing time!). Isobel |
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Weds 14th April 2021
Belvoir Forest Park
Pic: Crossing the county line: The Spartans pause on the footbridge across the Lagan as they return to action on April 14. It was great to be back – and to meet up again. The long-awaited relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions on group walking kicked in on April 14. And so the flag went up on the first Spartan Red Sox walk of 2021 – a Wednesday walk in Lagan Valley Regional Park. Social distancing regulations were observed as a full complement of 15 Spartans joyfully met up at Lockview Road car park in Stranmillis for a prompt 10.30am start. The sky was blue, the sun was shining brightly and everyone was in good form as we set off. We avoided the busy towpath and instead made our way along the ups and downs of the path through Lagan Meadows. The air was fresh and calm, the birds were on song and the blackthorn blossom was magnificent. Bliss! We crossed the Lagan by means of the wooden footbridge leading into Belvoir Forest and after following the river bank for a few hundred yards, headed uphill to the car park where we bagged the picnic tables for self-service elevenses. The chat was good as we caught up with each other. We gazed up as a buzzard circled overhead. From there we followed the 2.5km red trail along the river bank before passing through the car park again and back downhill to re-cross the river. |
Again we chose to avoid the towpath and followed the sweep of the river as we walked back across Morelands Meadow and so to Belfast Boat Club where some of us adjourned for a takeaway coffee from the Boat Club horsebox. The two and a half hours that our walk took had passed all too quickly but we look forward to meeting up again on the walks yet to come. Best foot forward!
Robin Morton |