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Things to do in Northern Ireland

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Discover the best things to do in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland, with its breath-taking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, offers every traveller a treasure trove of experiences. From dramatic coastlines to historic castles, and from lively cities to tranquil countryside, there’s something for everyone in this enchanting corner of the world.

Here are some must-do activities and attractions to consider when exploring Northern Ireland.

Northern Ireland Attractions

A must-do when visiting Northern Ireland is the Giant’s Causeway. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a geological wonder that will leave you awestruck. The unique hexagonal basalt columns that form the Giant’s Causeway are a sight. Legend has it that it was built by giants, adding a mystique to the already magical landscape.

Alternatively, immerse yourself in the history of the world’s most famous ship at the Titanic Belfast Museum. Through interactive exhibits, you’ll learn about the ship’s construction, voyage, and tragic sinking. It’s a poignant experience that pays tribute to the past while celebrating Belfast’s industrial heritage.

For adventurous souls, crossing the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a must. Suspended almost 100 feet above the crashing waves, the bridge offers stunning coastal views and a thrilling experience you won’t forget.

Hiking enthusiasts will be enchanted by the beauty of the Mourne Mountains. With its sweeping vistas, meandering trails, and diverse wildlife, this area is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. Whilst whiskey aficionados shouldn’t miss a visit to the Bushmills Distillery. Learn about the art of whiskey-making with a guided tour, and of course, savour a tasting of their renowned spirits.

Continue reading to find more things to do in Northern Ireland…

  • Ballintoy harbor in Northern Ireland

    Ballintoy Harbour

    Harbour Rd
    Ballintoy
    Ballycastle
    BT54 6NA

    Nestled near the stunning Giants Causeway, Ballintoy Harbour exudes rugged beauty and cinematic charm. This ‘raised beach’ features sea stacks, rocky pools and craggy cliffs, making it a popular filming spot.

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  • Large Belfast Botanic Gardens palm house with flowers in foreground

    Belfast Botanic Gardens

    College Park Ave
    Botanic Ave
    Belfast
    BT7 1LP

    028 9031 4762

    Step into the magical world of Botanic Gardens, where nature’s beauty blooms amid bright flora and peaceful sceneries.  Discover an oasis of green in the heart of Belfast.

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  • Belfast Castle Estate Feature

    Belfast Castle Estate

    Belfast

    1.5 hours

    2.2 miles

    Easy

    Delight in a dramatic walk through dense woodland and parkland at Belfast Castle Estate which is backed by the impressive Cave Hill.

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  • Belfast City Hall, Northern Ireland

    Belfast City Hall

    Donegall Square N
    Belfast
    Northern Ireland
    BT1 5GS

    02890320202

    An iconic symbol of Belfast’s history and modernity, City Hall is a must-visit for any visitor to the city.

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  • Carrick a Rede Rope Bridge Aerial View

    Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

    Ballintoy
    Antrim
    Ballycastle
    Northern Ireland

    02820769839

    Immerse yourself in a heart-pounding adventure amidst Northern Ireland’s coastline as you traverse the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.

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  • Carrickfergus Castle, Northern Ireland

    Carrickfergus Castle

    Marine Hwy
    Carrickfergus
    Northern Ireland
    BT38 7BG

    02893351273

    Transport yourself to a realm of medieval splendor and intrigue at Carrickfergus Castle, a fortress steeped in history.

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  • crumlin road gaol
    Image Credits: GrimsbyT - CC BY-SA 4.0

    Crumlin Road Gaol

    53-55 Crumlin Rd
    Belfast
    Northern Ireland
    BT14 6ST

    02890741500

    Step into the shadows of history and uncover the haunting stories within Crumlin Road Gaol, a once ominous Belfast prison now transformed into a must-visit landmark.

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  • View of Dunluce Castle from above

    Dunluce Castle

    87 Dunluce Rd
    Bushmills
    Northern Ireland
    BT57 8UY

    02820731938

    Perched dramatically on the edge of the Northern Irish coastline, Dunluce Castle beckons with its medieval allure and storied history.

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  • Giant's Causeway at Sunset

    Giant’s Causeway

    Bushmills
    County Antrim
    Northern Ireland
    BT57 8SU

    02820731855

    Step into a world of natural wonder and intrigue at Giant’s Causeway, where myth and geology create a captivating landscape.

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  • The Grand Opera House Belfast
    Image Credits: GFoxGOH - (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Grand Opera House Belfast

    2-4 Great Victoria St
    Belfast
    BT2 7HR

    028 9024 1919

    Discover the enchantment of live entertainment at the Grand Opera House Belfast. Watch thrilling performances take place in a historic and magnificent setting.

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  • Natural Marble Arch cave

    Marble Arch Caves

    43 Marlbank Rd
    Enniskillen
    BT92 1EW

    +44 (0) 28 66321815

    Step into the mesmerising world of Marble Arch Caves. Delved beneath the Earth’s surface and discover limestone passages and hidden chambers. Located near the village of Florencecourt, this a must-see attraction in Northern Ireland.

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  • Slemish feature

    Slemish

    0.7 miles

    1437 feet

    Difficult

    Part of the Danders Anoon series, Slemish is a challenging yet breath-taking walk which rewards its visitors with unbeatable views across County Antrim.

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  • Side view of Derry Walls defence with hills in distance

    The Derry Walls

    The Diamond
    Londonderry
    BT48 6HW

    +44 (0) 78 9453 4553

    The Derry Walls in Londonderry (Derry) is an emblem of resilience and history. These 17th-century barriers wraps around the city and tell stories of Northern Ireland’s captivating past.

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  • titanic belfast

    Titanic Belfast

    1 Olympic Wy
    Belfast
    Northern Ireland
    BT3 9EP

    02890766386

    Titanic Belfast is a captivating destination suited for history enthusiasts, families, and curious minds alike, offering a compelling exploration of the Titanic’s story and its impact on maritime history.

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  • ulster museum belfast, exterior
    Image Credits: Rossographer - CC BY-SA 2.0

    Ulster Museum

    Botanic Gardens
    Belfast
    Northern Ireland
    BT9 5AB

    02890440000

    Step into a world of art, culture, and knowledge at the Ulster Museum, where captivating exhibits and diverse collections await to inspire and enlighten visitors of all ages.

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