8 things to tick off your Northern Ireland bucket list
Last updated 22nd Jan 2019
There is so many great things to see and do in Northern Ireland.
If you fancy living like a tourist for a weekend and explore our 'wee' country, here's a handy list of eight things to check off the list. You don’t have to travel to other countries, beauty is right here in front of us... road trip anyone?
8. The Giant's Causeway, County Antrim
40,000 or so hexagonal-shaped basalt columns tumble down into the Atlantic Ocean. Formed by the result of a volcanic eruption 60 million years ago, it’s an epic sight. There’s no disputing that the Causeway makes a pretty picture, it was the most popular local visitor attraction last year with a reported one million visits.
7. Titanic Belfast
The Titanic Belfast visitor attraction extends over nine galleries, with multiple dimensions to the exhibition, explore the Titanic story in a fresh and insightful way from her conception in Belfast in the early 1900s, through her construction and launch, to her infamous maiden voyage and catastrophic demise. The journey goes beyond the aftermath of the sinking, to the discovery of the wreck and continues into the present day.
6. . Visit the grave of St. Patrick, Co. Down
Visit the burial site of Ireland's Patron Saint in the grounds of Downpatrick Cathedral, he's thought to have died in 461. The cemetery itself is really cool, take time to walk around and explore. The views of the surrounding County Down countryside and Mourne Mountains are amazing from here.
5. Visit Game of Thrones territory The Dark Hedges, Co.Antrim
One of the most popular attractions in Northern Ireland is the Dark Hedges, a beautiful row of beech trees made famous by famous HBO TV show Game of Thrones. Sadly recent storms has caused many of the trees to be lost, approx 90 of the original 150 trees still remain. If you are driving, then there is a large free visitor parking lot provided by The Hedges Hotel located just off Ballinlea Road.
4. Cross Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge
Connected to the cliffs by a rope bridge across the Atlantic Ocean, cross if you dare! Suspended almost 100 ft above sea level, the rope bridge was first erected by salmon fishermen 350 years ago. Thousands of people visit every year to blow out the cobwebs, see beautiful coastal scenery, and spot rare wildlife. Please note a timed ticketing system is in place at Carrick-a-Rede to ease traffic congestion and you can now book online via: http://carrickaredetickets.com
3. Hike the highest point in the country Slieve Donard, Co.Down
At 850m Northern Ireland's highest peak is definitely not for the faint-hearted. Set aside 3.5-6 hours to complete. There are two routes up, via Donard Car Park and Bloody Bridge. For the most popular route (Donard Car Park), follow the Glen River uphill through the forest. Dogs are allowed but must be kept on leads. Click here for the full route.
Make sure you are prepared, the weather in the Mourne Mountains can be unpredictable, pack a rain proof jacket, wear the right footwear, hikers should carry a mobile phone, compass and map with them at all times. Tell someone else where you are going and how long you expect be gone. Top safety tips for walking in the Mourne Mountains
2. Visit the fantastic Rathlin Island
At the very top of Northern Ireland, six miles off the Antrim coast is the country's only inhabited island. Just 120 people live there. During the summer thousands of Puffins share the cliffs at the island’s west lighthouse. The island is famous with with birdwatchers and offers some amazing walks. An excellent day out for all the family.
1. Drive along the amazing Causeway Coastal Route
The Causeway Coastal Route between Belfast and Derry~Londonderry offers spectacular scenery, imposing cliffs, bubbling mountain streams and gushing waterfalls.
The route starts in Belfast and will take you to the remarkable Gobbins Cliff Path, through the gorgeous Glens of Antrim, towards the famous Giant’s Causeway and the magnificent Mussenden Temple. Stop by the impressive remains of Dunluce Castle which lies teetering on a craggy headland, make sure to stop for some breathtaking pictures!