Stormont Estate, Government estate in Ballymiscaw, Northern Ireland
The Stormont Estate covers 91 hectares of wooded grounds with formal gardens and walking trails around the Northern Ireland government buildings near Belfast. The estate opens its public areas to walkers and offers a mix of open lawns, tree clusters and surfaced paths running through the grounds.
The Northern Ireland government bought the estate in 1921 and turned the existing castle into their administrative centre. The current parliament buildings in Greek classical style were completed in 1932, replacing the original residence.
The name comes from the Stormont family who lived here from the 18th century before it became the seat of government. The wide parkland paths are now used by visitors and locals for jogging, walking and family outings, with the parliament building visible in the background.
Visitors find free parking, an outdoor gym area and a children's playground close to the main paths. The public areas remain accessible all year round, and the surfaced paths suit wheelchairs and pushchairs, though some woodland trails are less firm.
The tomb of Viscount Craigavon built from Portland limestone stands on the east side of the parliament buildings, marking the resting place of the first prime minister. The memorial stone is surrounded by open lawn and visible to visitors walking along the main paths.
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