Local insights
Support, Nature & Community Around Lisburn & Down
Local Support Groups - Useful Websites
Alzheimer’s Society – Lisburn Dementia Support
A welcoming space offering memory cafés, peer support, and practical advice.
Accessibility: Meetings are held in accessible community venues with step‑free entry.
Dementia NI – Empowerment Groups
Confidence‑building groups for people living with dementia across the region.
Accessibility: Venues typically offer wheelchair access and quiet, comfortable spaces.
Age NI – Dementia & Carer Support
Emotional support, information sessions, and wellbeing programmes for carers.
Accessibility: Sessions usually take place in accessible community centres.
Barnardo’s Young Carers Service
One‑to‑one support, group activities, and help with school or emotional wellbeing.
Accessibility: Activities are held in accessible youth and community spaces.
NI Regional Young Carers
Assessments, support plans, and access to local activities.
Local Dementia Support Groups: In-person meetings
Lisburn Dementia Carers Group
Lisburn City Library
First Wednesday monthly, 2–3:30pm
Support for carers of people living with dementia.
Down Dementia Group (Downpatrick)
Down Leisure Centre
Third Wednesday monthly, 12:30–2:30pm
For people living with dementia and their carers.
Community Dementia Care NI Group – Ballynahinch
Parish Centre
Second Wednesday monthly
Social and peer support with lunch included.
Dementia Information Hubs
Lisburn Library, Bridge Community Centre, Hillsborough Village Centre, Enler Community Centre
Provide information, leaflets and guidance for people living with dementia and carers.
Walks & Outdoor Spaces
Hillsborough Forest Park
Lakeside paths, wildlife, and peaceful woodland.
Accessibility: Mostly flat paths, disabled parking, and regular benches.
Castle Gardens, Lisburn
Historic gardens with easy walking routes.
Accessibility: Smooth paths, nearby disabled parking, and accessible toilets.
Lagan Valley Regional Park / Towpath
A scenic riverside route ideal for gentle walks.
Accessibility: Long, flat paths suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
Murlough National Nature Reserve
Coastal boardwalks with stunning views of the Mournes.
Accessibility: Boardwalk sections are accessible; disabled parking available.
Delamont Country Park
Park, playpark and garden
Accessibility: parking, pathways around the area - slippery seaweed down to the beach.
Garden Centres & Outdoor Living
Dobbies Garden Centre, Lisburn
Plants, homeware, and a popular café.
Accessibility: Step‑free access, wide aisles, disabled parking, and accessible toilets.
Inver Garden Centre, Carryduff
A friendly, family‑run centre with a relaxed atmosphere.
Accessibility: Mostly level surfaces and accessible facilities.
Creative Gardens
Beautiful displays, outdoor décor, and a welcoming café.
Accessibility: Step‑free entry and accessible toilets at their sites; home delivery ideal for limited mobility.
Rowallane Garden, Saintfield (National Trust)
A peaceful garden with plant sales and a charming café.
Accessibility: Accessible paths near the entrance, disabled parking, and plenty of seating.