Are you planning a trip to Northern Ireland? Despite being so close to Great Britain, many Brits have never crossed the water to check out some of the top tourist sights on their doorstep.
Northern Ireland is a truly stunning country that’s packed with many wonderful tourist sights across natural, historical, and cultural features.
All six counties are blessed with stunning attractions. Whether you’re just starting to plan your adventure or already have some dates set in stone, here are 10 spots that are sure to provide those magical memories you crave.
The Titanic Belfast
The most famous passenger liner in history was built in Belfast, and the Titanic Museum and monument is one of Northern Ireland’s most significant attractions.
Learn more about RMS Titanic, that fateful maiden voyage in April 1912, and everything else related to the legend. Exhibitions including the Shipyard and the Sinking bring the tragic history to life in an engaging and educational manner while the architectural brilliance is something that will stay in your mind for years.
Since opening 2012, it has been one of Northern Ireland’s premier attractions. It’s the eye-catching centrepiece of an entire new district of Belfast that has been developed in recent years, helping to catapult the city’s tourist appeal in the post-Troubles era.
Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge
Northern Ireland’s most famous bridge attracts around 450,000 visitors each year and connects the mainland to a small island called Carrickarede. There is a 30-metre drop to the rocks below while the bridge itself spans 20 metres. It is cared for by the National Trust.
Crarrickarede itself is a volcanic plug, which is another reason to make the bridge a bucket list item. It can be a little scary for those that are scared of heights, but the views and ability to say you crossed the bridge will make it all worthwhile. Anyone visiting County Antrim should take this in.
The city walls of Derry
The Derry City Walls offer spectacular views of the city while the landmark itself offers an interesting walk supported by various plaques to provide educational insight, although you can take things to another level with the help of a guide.
Built in the early 17th century, the Walls are the largest monument in State care in Northern Ireland. Londonderry is the last walled city built in Europe, adding another special ingredient. It’s impossible to visit without seeing the walls, but embracing them fully is advised.
Belfast City Hall
Belfast City Hall was built over a century ago, and is an architectural masterpiece. The Edwardian building isn’t only stunning from the outside, though, as guests can tour the beautiful interiors to learn more about the architecture and the history of the city.
At 53 metres high, the venue is simply striking while its positioning in Donegall Square separates the business and commercial districts of the city. For an extra special time, visit on a day of celebration to see it illuminated in a different colour.
Giant’s Causeway
Giant’s Causeway in County Antrim attracts thousands of visitors each month, particularly those looking for day excursions from Belfast.
The natural icon is made up of 40,000 basalt rock columns, producing a series of giant stepping stones along the Northern Irish coast. It’s quite the sight.
This destination of outstanding natural beauty is one that can be enjoyed by tourists of all ages and interests, and the views of the coastline are simply incredible too. Watching the sunset from here is easily one of Northern Ireland’s greatest attractions, although you’ll want to wrap up warm as the sea breezes can be brisk!
The Dark Hedges
The Dark Hedges is an avenue of breathtakingly beautiful beech trees that attracts thousands of tourists annually. This was always the case, but even more so since the avenue was used to represent the King’s Road in the hit HBO show Game of Thrones.
Photographers, artists, and romancing couples are all regular visitors. However, the stunning setting is ideal for all guests to the County Antrim region. According to the myth, they are visited by the Grey Lady ghost. A preservation status was placed on the area in 2004.
The approach and entrance feel mesmerising while the walkway itself is nothing short of magical. The memories, and snaps, you get will be simply amazing.
The Mourne mountains
Northern Ireland’s highest mountain peak, at Slieve Donard stands at 850 metres and forms part of the Mourne Mountains in County Down in the South East. It has been proposed as the country’s first National Park, and has been recognised as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
This natural attraction attracts thousands of visitors each year, especially explorers that want to climb a mountain without taking on an impossible challenge. Form up high, you can see out for miles of green natural beauty. It is simply stunning.
Dunluce Castle
Despite being in ruins, Dunluce Castle is one of the most famous in Northern Ireland. This is partly due to the location, on the edge of a basalt outcropping overlooking the sea in County Antrim. However, the appeal is partly due to its historical and cultural significance.
The original castle was originally built in the 13th century and was a focal feature for Vikings and the McQuillan clan throughout the ages. The current ruins were built in the late middle ages. In recent years, its appearance in Game of Thrones has added to the appeal.
The Peace Walls of Belfast
Belfast’s political and religious history is etched into the city’s identity, even in the modern era where problems are minimal.
Back when sectarian riots were rife, during a period known as the Troubles, the large walls were built to keep the two communities apart. They remain to this day and are a certain bucket list item. The huge walls are an incredible sight, but it’s the cultural relevance that provides the true appeal.
Whichever side you stand on, you’ll be guaranteed a memorable experience. Besides, there are plenty of other attractions nearby.
Windsor Park
The home of Northern Irish football has seen plenty of big moments, especially in recent years thanks to the Green & White Army’s successes. Windsor Park is also the home of Linfield FC and hosts rugby union and Gaelic Games on a regular basis. The latter is a great way to soak in the heritage in an entertaining fashion.
Situated in Belfast, the 18,434-seater stadium has played a central role in the country’s sporting history for over a century while renovations in 1996 and 2015 have introduced modern features to the iconic venue. Even if it’s a tour rather than a match, you must see this sporting icon.
Have you been to Northern Ireland before? What’s your favourite thing to do?
If you’ve enjoyed this post and it’s inspired you to plan a trip, why not share your plans on Pinterest? We’ve got just the pin for that:
