Tucked away above the picturesque village of Glenarm on the east coast of County Antrim, Glenarm Forest is a lovely place to escape for a peaceful woodland wander. In autumn, the trees take on beautiful shades of gold, copper and russet, making it a rewarding place to explore with a camera.
On our visit, we parked near Glenarm Marina and walked up through the village before following a short lane into the forest. Away from the road, the woodland offered a welcome sense of calm. There were lots of autumn leaves underfoot and mature trees providing plenty of interest along the way.
Looking for red squirrels in Glenarm Forest
One of the special things about Glenarm Forest is the chance to spot red squirrels. These delightful native mammals have a presence in the woodland. We were lucky enough to catch a few fleeting glimpses as they darted up the trees in search of food.
Their russet coats and distinctive bushy tails make them wonderful subjects for wildlife photography, although they certainly don’t stay still for long! Sadly, our sightings were too brief for me to capture a photograph. But watching them scurry through the branches was a highlight of the visit.
Autumn colours and woodland photography
Even without a camera-worthy squirrel encounter, there’s plenty to enjoy here. The mix of broadleaf trees creates beautiful autumn colours. And the woodland paths and quieter corners offer opportunities to appreciate the textures and details of the forest.
I love places like this, where a simple walk becomes an opportunity to slow down. It’s an opportunity to notice the changing light and enjoy the natural world close to home.
Glenarm Forest is a lovely spot to explore if you’re travelling along the Antrim Coast. Take your time, look out for the red squirrels and enjoy a different side of this beautiful part of Northern Ireland.
Paula
Other stories from the Antrim Coast
Glenarm Coast Walk, County Antrim | Coastal Scenery
Blackhead Path and Lighthouse, Northern Ireland
Your notes on Glenarm have me determined to make the effort to visit. We have gone as far as Belfast (from Waterford) several times, and out to Ballymena to visit friends, but never on to Co. Antrim. There is so much there that I would love to see – Glenarm Castle Gardens and the native orchids on the coast. Some day, after this Covid has gone, we will be able to travel again!
Yes I’m sure you would absolutely love it. There is so much to see. Hopefully with the vaccines being rolled out, our days of travelling can return next year. Hope you are keeping well…
Yes, we are both well, thank you, remaining isolated but occupied and content. Missing family very much and looking forward to seeing them again,
It looks like a lovely, peaceful place to walk – and very picturesque from the distant shot of the village. Glad to know that Boris and the hedgehogs are all doing well 🙂
Thank you Andrea. We seem to be developing a family of animals…which is no bad thing. I hope you are keeping well…are there many restrictions where you are ?
We come out of lockdown on 2nd and our area goes into Tier 3, so we’ll be at the highest level. The good thing is that close family wise we just have my mother in law to worry about and we’re allowed to be in a social bubble with her as she lives alone. And work will continue much as it has been – opening our libraries for click and collect but still working from home for me.
Wonderful nature pics. Happy to hear your Boris is doing better.
Thank you very much…very kind of you to say so 🙂
You’ve captured such beauty in these photos. I’m glad you are able to go on little expeditions like this to breathe in the fresh air and wondrous colors and all.
Thank you very much for your kind comments!