Ballydyan
Situated midway between Crossgar and Saintfield, this disused section of the old Belfast to Downpatrick railway line, closed in 1950, is now a beautiful and peaceful walk.
With two different parts, half of the reserve is mature ash and some scrub and the other half is a grassland with some wetland areas. It is an incredible place for birds and in spring there are many interesting butterflies. There is a circular path around the reserve and it takes 20 minutes at an easy pace. It is a real wildlife corridor with badgers, foxes, rabbits and grey squirrels all seen on the reserve. Access: This nature reserve is open to the public and is open all year. Getting There: From Crossgar, take B7 to Ballynahinch. After 2 miles, take minor road on right to Listooder. Continue for about 1.5 miles following signs to Ballydyan. Parking is available for three cars on the roadside verge. Look out for: Holly blue butterfly, bullfinch, sparrow hawk, willow warbler.
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