Belshaw’s Quarry Nature Reserve and Sculpture Park, located on Bensons Road near Lisburn, is a unique blend of natural beauty, geological significance, and artistic expression. Managed by the Stormont Environment Agency (NIEA) and enhanced by the Whitemountain & District Community Association, this site is designated as an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) due to its accessible geological features, making it a unique attraction in Europe.
- Natural Environment: Geological Significance: The former quarry, abandoned around 1950, reveals a fascinating geological history, showcasing evidence of ancient environments such as a scorched desert, seabed, molten lava, and ice-entombed landscapes. Informative leaflets and panels provide educational insights into geology and evolution, making it a compelling destination for those interested in Earth’s history.
- Wildlife and Flora: The reserve is a haven for wildlife, with dragonflies darting over bulrushes in the pond, common blue butterflies adding vibrant hues, and wild strawberries and orchids dotting the landscape. Birdsong from species like wrens and goldfinches enhances the serene atmosphere, appealing to birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
- Scenic Beauty: The quarry offers stunning views across the countryside, extending to the snow-capped Mourne Mountains on clear days. The peaceful, natural setting is ideal for a tranquil walk, photography, or simply soaking in the environment.
Sculpture Park:
- Artistic Installations: Eight geologically themed, man-sized sculptures, commissioned by the Whitemountain & District Community Association and created by six sculptors (including local artists from the Lisburn area), are thoughtfully integrated into the natural surroundings. These sculptures narrate the quarry’s ancient geological story, blending art with science in a way that visitors describe as “stunning” and “thought-provoking.”
- Notable Sculptures: A standout is a sculpture of a cow, which children enjoy exploring for its component parts, adding an interactive element to the visit.
- Cultural Significance: Opened on April 1, 2017, the sculpture park was inaugurated by local artist Jennifer Morrow, a finalist in BBC’s Big Painting Challenge, highlighting its role as a cultural asset for Lisburn.
- Walking Trails: The reserve features accessible paths, steps with handrails, and a short, non-strenuous loop (approximately 10–15 minutes to complete), making it suitable for families, young children, or those seeking a brief outing. The compact nature of the walk ensures it’s manageable for all ages, though visitors are advised to wear sturdy footwear or wellies, as the ground can be uneven or slippery after rain.
- Educational Opportunities: Guided tours, bookable via the Whitemountain & District Community Association, provide deeper insights into the sculptures and geology, appealing to both novices and enthusiasts. Local volunteers, like “John,” may offer impromptu tours, augmenting the experience with personal anecdotes.
- Atmosphere: Visitors describe the site as “peaceful,” “serene,” and “hidden away from the real world,” offering a quiet escape. The natural and artistic elements create an “atmospheric and ancient” ambiance, ideal for history, geology, photography, and wildlife enthusiasts.
- The reserve is fully accessible with paths and steps, and a lay-by provides parking off the Lisburn/Glenavy (A30) or Lisburn/Dundrod (B101) roads. Visitors are cautioned not to park on roadsides, as this is busy farmland.
- Nearby Attractions: The reserve is less than a 10-minute drive from Brookhall Historical Farm, allowing visitors to create an itinerary combining geological, cultural, and historical experiences. Other nearby attractions include the Irish Linen Centre and Lisburn Museum or Castle Gardens, both within Lisburn.
- Cost and Hours: Entry is free, and the reserve is open year-round during daylight hours. Guided tours may require booking, and visitors should check with the Whitemountain & District Community Association for schedules.
What’s New:
- Since its opening in 2017, management has referenced an “upcoming phase 2” for the sculpture park, which may involve additional sculptures or enhanced facilities. While no specific 2025 announcements are confirmed, the Whitemountain & District Community Association’s commitment to public involvement suggests potential new installations or interpretive materials to further develop the quarry’s exhibition. Visitors should check the association’s website or contact them for updates on phase 2 progress.
- Maintenance and Accessibility Improvements: Past reviews noted concerns about overgrown brambles, faded panels, and uneven ground. In response, significant investments have been made (via the Alpha Programme and NIEA) to upgrade paths, steps, and handrails. For 2025, ongoing maintenance is expected to address these issues, ensuring clearer signage and safer walkways, though visitors should still expect a “natural” environment and wear appropriate footwear.
- Community Engagement Events: The Whitemountain & District Community Association has a history of hosting events, such as the 2017 opening and subsequent talks at Bridge Community Centre., similar events will be planned to engage visitors with the quarry’s geology and art, including workshops, artist talks, or educational tours for schools and universities, building on past visits from groups like Methodist College Belfast and Birmingham University students.
- Increased Visibility: The sculpture park’s designation as a unique geologically themed attraction in Europe, combined with its recognition on platforms like Tripadvisor (with a mix of positive reviews), suggests growing awareness., enhanced promotion through Visit Lisburn & Castlereagh or social media may attract more visitors, especially those interested in niche attractions like geology and public art.
Practical Information
- Belshaw’s Quarry Nature Reserve, Bensons Road, Lisburn, County Antrim, (3 miles northwest of Lisburn, accessible via A30 or B101).
- Cost: Free entry; guided tours may have a nominal fee or be free, depending on arrangements.
- Hours: Open daily during daylight hours; check with the Whitemountain & District Community Association for guided tour schedules.
- Contact: For tour bookings or inquiries, contact the Whitemountain & District Community Association (details available via Visit Lisburn & Castlereagh or local community channels).
- Tips: Wear sturdy shoes or wellies due to uneven terrain, especially after rain. Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a camera for photography. Avoid peak times if the small carpark is full, and respect farmland by not parking on roadsides. Check the Visit Lisburn & Castlereagh website (visitlisburncastlereagh.com) for updates on events or phase 2 developments.
Belshaw’s Quarry Nature Reserve and Sculpture Park offers a serene, educational, and visually striking experience, blending natural beauty with geologically themed art. Visitors can expect a peaceful walk through a historically rich landscape, enhanced by thought-provoking sculptures and opportunities to engage with local wildlife and geology. While specific new additions are not fully detailed, ongoing improvements and potential phase 2 developments promise to enhance the experience. This hidden gem is ideal for families, geology enthusiasts, and those seeking a quiet, off-the-beaten-path attraction near Lisburn.
