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Northern Ireland

Photo by: VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Sunset over the red basalt column. Sea views

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)

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.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Ben Selway

People walking on path between tall intertwined trees

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.

Photo by: David Lyons / Alamy Stock Photo

Old Bushmills Distillery, County Antrim, Northern Ireland. Wooden barrels casks at the world’s oldest whiskey distillery.

Destinations in Northern Ireland

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Belfast

A dynamic port city with a colourful past, Belfast is a vibrant cultural hub on Northern Ireland’s eastern coast.

Find out more

Photo by: Tourism Northern Ireland

The Titanic, Belfast
Causeway Coast

A land of mighty scenery and epic stories, this wild corner of Northern Ireland will steal your heart.

Find out more

Photo by: VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Man and boy sitting on the red basalt columns
Belfast

A dynamic port city with a colourful past, Belfast is a vibrant cultural hub on Northern Ireland’s eastern coast.

Find out more

Photo by: Tourism Northern Ireland

The Titanic, Belfast
Causeway Coast

A land of mighty scenery and epic stories, this wild corner of Northern Ireland will steal your heart.

Find out more

Photo by: VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Man and boy sitting on the red basalt columns

Our favourite experiences in Northern Ireland

  • Bushmills, Northern Ireland

    Though the castle itself dates back to the 16th century, this clifftop spot has over 2,000 years of human history to explore.

    History and heritage

    Photo by: VisitBritain/Ben Selway

    People looking at a historic stony castle from a hill
  • Bushmills, Northern Ireland 3rd - 5th October 2025

    Get stuck into whiskey tastings, artisan food markets and salmon suppers of every description.

    Music and festivals

    Photo by: McAuley Multimedia

    Location: Northern Ireland

    Bushmills Salmon and Whiskey Festival
  • Banbridge, Northern Ireland

    Calling all Game of Thrones fans! Enter the world of The Seven Kingdoms, complete with original costumes, props and weapons.

    Starring Great Britain

    Photo by: Linen Mill Studios / WarnerMedia / Game of Thrones Studio Tour

    Costume Gallery at the Game of Thrones Studio Tour
  • Belfast, Northern Ireland

    This magnificent green space features orienteering trails, nature routes, playgrounds and themed gardens.

    Outdoors and nature

    Photo by: Visit Belfast

    Location: Northern Ireland

    Visitors enjoying a summer’s day in Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park
  • County Antrim, Northern Ireland

    Were these 40,000 interlocking basalt columns created by an ancient volcanic eruption, or built by the fabled giant Finn MacCool?

    Outdoors and nature

    Photo by: VisitBritain/Ben Selway

    Sunset over the red basalt column. Sea views
  • Belfast, Northern Ireland

    From the Oh Yeah music hub in the heart of Belfast, journey through the UNESCO City of Music.

    Music and festivals

    Photo by: Creative Tours Belfast

    Location: Stub

    Group of people on street taking part in Belfast Music Tours
  • Belfast, Northern Ireland

    Discover the history, hear the stories and immerse yourself in Belfast’s past.

    History and heritage

    Photo by: Tourism Northern Ireland

    Location: Northern Ireland

    Lagan Legends Walking Tour, SS Nomadic, Titanic Quarter, Belfast, Co. Antrim
  • Coleraine, Northern Ireland

    With its designer fashions, cosmetics and homewares, this department store offers an elevated shopping experience.

    Shopping

    Photo by: Ulster Stores / Moores of Coleraine

    Location: Northern Ireland

    Moores of Coleraine
  • Portrush, Northern Ireland 14th - 17th November 2025

    Take your pick from folk, classical, rock and soul gigs – many of which are free.

    Music and festivals

    Photo by: Tourism Northern Ireland

    Location: Northern Ireland

    Atlantic Sessions

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!

Photo by: VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Distant view of people crossing a rope bridge over the sea

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