The best running trails around Ballymisert

In Belfast stands a fish so large, Made of steel and art, a true castle. Its blue shines in the sunlight, Its face a marine wonder. It swims in the cityscape, proud and free, A symbol of strength and harmony. People watch, marvel, laugh, And are awakened by the work of art. A sea spirit in the middle of the city, That shows what art and courage can do. The blue fish, so beautiful and clear, Remains wonderful in our hearts.

Wide paths through a quiet park.

Ceramic fish sculpture with pictures and texts on the history of Belfast, partly made by children.

Sad past…

The paths meander through lush greenery that makes you feel like you're far away from the city. A well-kept park that offers space for both exercise and relaxed rolling. The tree-lined avenues are particularly beautiful - perfect for cycling in the interplay of light and shadow. The route also runs along the Connswater Community Greenway, a green corridor through Belfast that beautifully connects Orangefield Park with other green areas of the city. The evening atmosphere with the play of light on the manicured lawn and the clouds over Belfast is definitely worth a moment to pause - a calm contrast to the otherwise busy city. Ideal for a relaxed ride in the early morning or to wind down in the evening without being too far away.

Here, in the middle of the city, the characters from The Chronicles of Narnia come to life in the form of impressive bronze sculptures. As a cyclist, you pass right by the square and can pause for a moment to immerse yourself in this fantastic world. The sculptures of Aslan, the mighty lion, and the White Witch's throne in particular attract attention. The details of the figures are impressive and give the characters a special presence. The square is not only a place for literature lovers, but also an interesting work of art in the open air - a change from the usual sights. CS Lewis, the famous writer and son of the city, is omnipresent here and also makes this place a small piece of Belfast history.

Victoria Park in Belfast is an interesting spot for a short bike ride and a break by the water. It is accessible 24 hours a day and has a quiet lake that is enlivened by swans, ducks and other water birds. The walk around the lake is particularly relaxing, where gently curved paths lead you through the greenery of the park. The complex dates back to 1906 and was designed by landscape architect Charles McKimm, who also designed the impressive tropical hall in the Botanical Garden. You can also explore the small BMX track by bike, which attracts ambitious cyclists - perfect for adding a little variety. On the banks of the lake, the complex offers a beautiful mix of nature and urban flair. Free parking makes access uncomplicated and practical. A walk or a bike ride through this historic park is a refreshing break, especially with the lively birdsong and the proximity to the water. Whether for a short break or a longer stay – Victoria Park offers a pleasant ambience in the middle of the city.

Perhaps the most significant development of the strike occurred when Sands entered the election campaign for a seat in the Parliament for Northern Ireland's County of Fermanagh and South Tyrone. On 10 April, after 41 days of hunger strike and to the great shock of the IRA leadership, Sands won the seat by more than 30,000 votes. His election sent shockwaves throughout Ireland and within the British government. After all, Britain's criminalisation policy was based on its claims that the IRA had little public support and was a gang of renegade criminals. Despite Sands' new political status as an MP and mounting public pressure, the British government under Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher refused to take even a step towards reconciliation. Sands' condition continued to deteriorate and he remained confined to the prison infirmary. Eventually, on 3 May, Sands fell into a coma. His family was called to visit and on Tuesday, May 5, 1981, Sands died after 66 days on hunger strike. Sands' death sparked enormous reactions around the world. Hundreds of thousands demonstrated in support of the prisoners' demands, the US government issued a statement of "deep regret", Irish unions went on strike, newspapers around the world condemned Thatcher's "glory" in allowing a parliamentary colleague to die, and riots broke out in the streets of Northern Ireland. His funeral procession was attended by more than 100,000 people. After Sands, nine more prisoners died before the hunger strike was finally ended on October 3, 1981. Shortly afterwards, all prisoners were granted reforms that largely met their demands.(Source: https://www.britannica.com/biography/Bobby-Sands)