A dynamic port city with a colourful past, Belfast is a vibrant cultural hub on Northern Ireland’s eastern coast.
Northern Ireland
Why we love Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland has everything from World Heritage Sites to real-world Game of Thrones locations, plus scenery that will leave you in awe. From the mountains of Mourne to the Fermanagh Lakelands, the Causeway Coast to the Glens of Antrim, you’ll find an inspiring country made for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and adrenaline addicts.
With a wild Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Irish Sea on the other, take your pick of spectacularly unique beaches set against backdrops featuring mountains, cliffs, caves and even temples. Stand on the very spot where the Titanic launched, or marvel at the remains of a causeway, believed to be built by a giant so he could cross the North Channel.
Follow in the footsteps of local heroes Rory Mcllroy and Darren Clarke and tee off at over 90 courses, including the legendary Royal County Down. Or stay in the three-bedroom terrace house where football legend George Best grew up.
There’s no better time than the present to embrace your giant spirit and discover what adventure awaits you in Northern Ireland.
Capital city
Belfast
Currency
GBP
Timezone
GMT (Winter), GMT + 1 (Summer)
The SCENEic Route
Northern Ireland is ready for its close-up – and you’re in the director’s chair. Take The SCENEic Route to discover the nation’s screen stars with the help of this illustrated guide. Game of Thrones fans – step into the world of Westeros in County Down, or if you’re more into Derry Girls, you’ll feel right at home in Derry-Londonderry. Plus, explore Belfast and County Antrim’s blockbuster backdrops to Line of Duty, Dungeons and Dragons: Honour Among Thieves and Artemis Fowl.
Titanic Belfast
Located on the very spot where the ship was designed, built and launched is Titanic Belfast. Discover the story of RMS Titanic from her conception, through her construction and launch, to her maiden voyage and subsequent place in history.
Castles and Historic Sites
Northern Ireland is filled with towers, turrets and tales of yore. From the 400-year old Antrim Castle in the north to the ruins of Dunseverick Castle, plus the magnificent medieval Dunluce Castle, there are plenty of castles and heritage sites in Northern Ireland to explore across these historic lands.
Step into the spotlight
Think of the Game of Thrones universe, and Northern Ireland’s dramatic landscapes immediately spring to mind. Experience Westeros for yourself at the Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Banbridge, where you’ll discover the vast sets and intricate costumes as seen on screen. Then, take your pick from these Game of Thrones-inspired sightseeing tours of key filming locations, like the mind-blowing Dark Hedges, for the ultimate behind-the-scenes adventure.
The Fermanagh Lakelands
You’ll find family fun as well as romantic weekends away around the lovely Fermanagh Lakelands. On a rainy day, a visit to the Marble Arch Caves is an experience not to be missed.
Northern Ireland
Discover World Heritage sites and Game of Thrones filming locations, dramatic coastlines, historic castles, and thrilling outdoor adventure in Northern Ireland.
Follow the Titanic Trail in the capital Belfast to discover the ship's famous story, or head to the city’s Queen’s Quarter to explore the Botanic Gardens and Ulster Museum.
Marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage Giant’s Causeway, spot dolphins on a sea safari, or cross the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge on the Causeway Coast.
Uncover myths and legends at the magnificent Antrim Castle, Dunseverick Castle ruins and medieval Dunluce Castle.
Tour the Marble Arch Caves in Fermanagh, hike the 7-mile (11km) Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, kayak on Lough Erne or cycle the rolling Glens of Antrim.
Discover the majestic Hillsborough Castle, home to the Royal Family in Northern Ireland, while exploring the glorious gardens and Lady Alice’s Temple.
Fun fact
Fun fact
Northern Ireland is home to more Game of Thrones filming locations than anywhere else in the world, including The Dark Hedges in Country Antrim and the magical Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Banbridge, County Down.
Did you know?
Did you know?
Northern Ireland is the smallest member of the United Kingdom, covering an area of 5,456 square miles (14,130 square km), with a population of approximately 1.8 million people.
The Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage site, is a spectacular ancient volcanic rock formation dating back an estimated 60 million years.
Established in 1608, Old Bushmills Distillery in County Antrim is the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world – guided tours delve into its 400-year history.
Dating back to 1890, St George’s Market is one of Belfast’s oldest attractions – more than two hundred stalls offer a wide range of local produce and handmade crafts every weekend.
- The OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory in Davagh Forest, County Tyrone, is Northern Ireland’s only official Dark Sky Park, offering the chance to stargaze and explore the solar system at special events.
Featured things to do in Northern Ireland
OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory
Davagh Forest in County Tyrone is the country’s only International Dark Sky Park. Found near the ancient Beaghmore Stone Circles, at the foot of the Sperrin mountains, visitors can star-gaze and explore the solar system from the park’s observatory.
Find out more about OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory (opens in a new tab)
Gobbins Experience
For a truly thrilling cliff walk, head to this network of walkways and bridges on the County Antrim coastline. Witness dolphins dancing out to sea, native sea birds overhead and the Irish Sea winds on your face.
Find out more about the Gobbins Experience (opens in a new tab)
St George’s Market
Explore the colour, craic and cracking food at St George’s Market. On Fridays, there are over 200 stalls selling the freshest fruit and vegetables, the widest range of fish in Ireland and a unique assortment of antiques, books and clothes.
Find out more about St George’s Market (opens in a new tab)
Belfast Christmas Market
Belfast’s award-winning Christmas market enjoys a Victorian twist on its first and third weekends, when Charles Dickens’ stories are brought to life with magical storytelling and performances.
Explore Belfast Christmas Market (opens in a new tab)Our favourite experiences in Northern Ireland
Suspend yourself above a giant
The Causeway Coast is a must-visit, from its giant boulders to its remote walking trails, but did you know there’s a way to soar above it? Embark on a 30 metre high adventure on a rope bridge walk towards the tiny island of Carrick-a-Rede. If heights aren’t your thing, make sure you don’t look down!
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Want to know more?
Want to know more?
Discover information, resources and contacts for Northern Ireland.
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