Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: Belfast (22) views (11) great (10) Fort (10) view (9) walk (8) McArt' (7) Castle (7) hike (7) history (6)
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  • 5/5 Nikos G. 7 months ago on Google β€’ 1013 reviews
    Napoleon's nose or McArt's fort is the same place. A great example of what nature can create.
    3 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Rosemary H. 2 years ago on Google β€’ 23 reviews
    Very sterp climber to McArts Fort from Belfadt Castle carpark but so worth the climber. View are great! Always wear the proper footwear and gear. Bring a packed lunch and enjoy the company. Good for your fitness!!
    5 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Jānis N. 10 months ago on Google
    Great view of Belfast city from the top of mountains. Must go for a hike here if going to visit Belfast.
    3 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Nomis A. 9 months ago on Google β€’ 81 reviews
    Splendid views and a great hike to enjoy arourn the wholw cave hill area.
    2 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Laura J. 1 year ago on Google
    Lovely walk up McArts Fort, lots of things for the kids to explore on the way to the top and a great view over Belfast. Recommended going into the cafe in Belfast castle for a takeaway coffee for the walk 😊
    2 people found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Kyle R. 5 months ago on Google β€’ 508 reviews
    McArt's Fort, affectionately known as Napoleon's Nose, is a hidden gem nestled within the splendid landscapes of Cave Hill Country Park in Belfast. This ancient site, with its intriguing name, offers a unique experience that combines nature, history, and breathtaking views. The standout feature of McArt's Fort is, of course, the panoramic view it provides. Standing on the summit, one is treated to an outstanding sight that stretches far and wide. On a clear day, the vista encompasses the sprawling city of Belfast, the picturesque North Down coastline, and even the distant shores of Scotland. The sense of awe inspired by this spectacle is truly unparalleled. Reaching Napoleon's Nose is an adventure in itself. The hike is a bit of a physical challenge, with some steep ascents, but the effort is well worth the reward. As you ascend, the iconic basalt cliffs, lush greenery, and captivating rock formations create an atmosphere of wonder and anticipation. When you reach the summit, the view that awaits is nothing short of breathtaking. The history and the legends surrounding McArt's Fort add an extra layer of intrigue to the experience. This ancient site has seen centuries of history, and it's named after a local outlaw, McArt, who used the location as a hideout. The combination of history and nature is an enchanting aspect of the visit. McArt's Fort, or Napoleon's Nose, is more than just a geographical landmark; it's a place where nature and history converge to provide a truly memorable experience. It's a testament to the beauty of Northern Ireland's landscapes and the enduring appeal of our natural and cultural heritage. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone simply seeking an awe-inspiring view, McArt's Fort won't disappoint.

  • 5/5 Brian M. 1 year ago on Google β€’ 100 reviews
    Best possible views over Belfast. Park off the High town road and walk up the back way rather than from Belfast Castle if you want the easier route. Still a good walk that entails going up heart attack hill but well worth the effort Its a free public location no booking or tickets required
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Jim C. 7 months ago on Google β€’ 61 reviews
    Follow the green path from Belfast Castle until you reach the cave. Now you have a choice. Turn left for a shorter bit steeper climb or choose right for a much longer but easier climb (still steep at times)
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Gerard H. 3 years ago on Google
    Love this place. A great walk in the mountains.
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Paul R. 7 months ago on Google
    Beautiful scenery. Well worth the walk!
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Thomas D. 1 year ago on Google
    Great spot for a hike, fantastic views over Belfast and beyond. An aerial picture when I passed over on a flight.
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Rebecca C. 3 years ago on Google
    What a viewpoint, very blowy. It was misty today but great achievement to make it to the top.
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 5/5 Patrick S. 3 years ago on Google
    Want to see spectacular views of Belfast and beyond? Also get a bit of a workout too-then this is where you come. Scenic,peaceful,breathtaking.
    1 person found this review helpful πŸ‘

  • 4/5 Shrinidhi H. 4 years ago on Google β€’ 377 reviews
    Amazing views of Belfast town, great hiking trails. Enjoyed the hike. Nothing much left of a fort- just a view point. Beware of strong winds and slippery edges. Has multiple entry n exit points- plan your visit well to avoid getting out at wrong exit. Pets are allowed. No facilities available- carry your own water and other essentials

  • 5/5 Martin E. 10 months ago on Google β€’ 238 reviews
    Two ways up. Rom the Belfast Castle side (which is a fairly serious climb) or the back, which is less strenuous, but still not something you'd do pushing a baby buggy! On a clear day the views are spectacular!

  • 5/5 Reza S. 7 months ago on Google β€’ 121 reviews
    Amazing day out and good exercise! If you are in Belfast with a good weather you must visit the McArt’s Fort

  • 5/5 Cartz 1 year ago on Google β€’ 72 reviews
    Really good view over Belfast. Was lucky to capture this double rainbow when I was there. Parked in Cave Hill Car park (on the B95). Big, free car park. Path to McArt's Fort is a good. Walk up takes 30-45 mins. Couple of steeper parts. Gradient changes throughout. 10 min hike down to the cave (need appropriate footwear as its off the good path).

  • 5/5 Dan M. 2 years ago on Google
    Very well maintained easy paths, great viewpoint of the city and surroundings either at daytime or after sunset (provided it's not pouring, overcast or foggy).

  • 5/5 Sarah M. 2 years ago on Google
    This is my favourite place I love walking cave hill with my dog πŸ•

  • 5/5 Zachary G. 5 years ago on Google
    Best hike if my life so far. In my opinion an absolute must do at least once if not multiple times. A great joy.

  • 5/5 Kretty 1 year ago on Google
    Amazing view up there. If you travel to Belfast, this is a must go.

  • 5/5 Gavin B. 10 months ago on Google
    Excellent views over belfast

  • 4/5 Kevin O. 3 years ago on Google
    Belfast at its best, great walk and views

  • 5/5 Matthew E. 3 years ago on Google
    Great walk, amazing views over Belfast Lough and Belfast itself.

  • 5/5 G B. 7 months ago on Google
    Great views over a belfast and beyond. Short route is from Hightown Road car park and takes about 20-25 minutes up with one steep section for about 50 meters which might be difficult for anyone with mobility issues or they could try walking up the grass beside it. Longer route is from Belfast Castle car park with a few path options, the longest normally takes anywhere from 90 minutes to 120 minutes depending on fitness. Views into the zoo from this side and into newtownabbey. The gardens are well laid out in Belfast Castle for a dander afterwards (cafe on this site).

  • 5/5 TigJoeLiv N. 3 years ago on Google
    Mc Art's Fort is absolutely wonderful!! What a place!!...The view is breathtaking!! You should try it!!...with Belfast Castle on the one side....the peak, the greenery, the caves,etc. Fresh air n clean surroundings.


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    • βœ— Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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