nature reserves around north antrim

High on the slopes of Slieveanorra Mountain are four plots of peat bog which show different stages in the formation and erosion of peat. The owennaglush plot is a rare example of a raised bog in which the peat is actively growing, while the Orra Bog and Slieveanorra plots show what happens when shallow blanket peat is eroded. The plant life varies from heather and deer grass in drier areas, to damp patches where sphagnum moss, sedges and cotton gras grow. Bog asphodel, bog-bean and insect-eat...

Perched high above Straidkilly point is one of the largest, semi-natural woods in County Antrim. Hazel thickets on the lower slopes give way to mixed woodland of ash, birch, hawthorn and rowan. Before the tree canopy closes overhead in early summer, the woodland floor is carpeted with bluebells and the delicate white flowers of wood anemones, while the pungent smell of wild garlic fills the air. Sunny glades within the woodland provide sheltered areas for insects, and butterflies in particula...

It's only here that you can dabble in a living rock pool without getting your feet wet; in our touch tank you will find everything from a limpet to a lobster…...

At one time, oakwoods covered much of north-east Antrim. Gradually the trees were felled for timber and the land cleared for farming. Today, Breen Oakwood is one the last fragments of these once extensive woodlands. The mature oaks form a dense canopy overhead, with birch on the higher ridges. Rowan, hawthorn, holly and hazel grow beneath to form an understorey, with alder and willow in the damper areas beside streams. Ferns and mosses thrive in the damp, shady conditions, while dragonflies...

One-mile trail shows vegetation types developed on sand and chalk. Geological features displayed. Free access always. On A2 1-1/2 miles west of Ballintoy....