Hillsborough Forest facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hillsborough Forest |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Map | |
 Location in Northern Ireland
|
|
| Geography | |
| Location | Down, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom |
| Coordinates | 54°27′31″N 6°04′21″W / 54.4585°N 6.0726°W |
| Area | 500 acres (200 ha) |
| Administration | |
| Governing body | Forest Service Northern Ireland |
Hillsborough Forest is a wonderful place to visit in County Down, Northern Ireland. It's a large forest with many different types of trees. You can find it close to the village of Hillsborough. This forest was once part of the big estate belonging to Hillsborough Castle.
Contents
Discover Hillsborough Forest
Hillsborough Forest covers about 500 acres, which is like 378 football fields! It's home to a mix of trees. Some are broadleaf trees, which means they have wide, flat leaves that often change color in autumn. Examples include oak and beech trees. Other trees are coniferous, like pine or fir, which have needles and stay green all year.
A Forest with History
This forest has a long history. It used to be part of the land around Hillsborough Castle. A "demesne" is a large area of land that belongs to a castle or a big house. Imagine having your own forest to explore right outside your home!
The Lake and Its Fish
One of the best parts of Hillsborough Forest is its beautiful lake. This lake is a great spot for fishing. It's home to two types of trout:
- Brown trout: These fish are native to the area and are known for their spotted patterns.
- Rainbow trout: These fish were introduced to the lake and are famous for the colorful stripe along their sides.
Fishing in the lake is a popular activity for visitors.
What is a Rath?
Deep inside Hillsborough Forest, you can find the remains of something called the Fox Fort rath. A "rath" is an ancient type of fort. It was built a very long time ago, usually during the Iron Age or early medieval period.
- How they were built: Rath forts were often circular areas. They were protected by big earth banks and ditches. These banks and ditches helped keep people and animals safe inside.
- What they were for: People used raths as homes or farms. They were like small, fortified villages. The Fox Fort rath shows us how people lived many centuries ago in this area. It's a cool piece of history right in the forest!
Exploring the Forest
Hillsborough Forest is a fantastic place for outdoor adventures. You can enjoy walking, running, or cycling on the many paths. It's a peaceful spot to connect with nature. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, like birds and small animals. The forest is managed by the Forest Service Northern Ireland, which helps keep it beautiful for everyone to enjoy.
Images for kids
-
The lake, Hillsborough forest
-
The earth bank shown is part of what remains of the rath
