Embarking on a Northern Eire highway journey is the proper strategy to discover the fascinating fantastic thing about the British Isles. This area, steeped in wealthy historical past and tradition, presents gorgeous landscapes, charming cities, and a plethora of hidden gems simply ready to be found. With its distinctive mix of pure wonders, historic websites, and enchanting coastal views, a highway journey by means of Northern Eire guarantees an unforgettable journey for vacationers.
The Causeway Coastal Route is a well-liked place to begin, taking vacationers on a scenic journey from Belfast to Derry/Londonderry whereas showcasing main coastal sights. Alongside the way in which, followers of the favored tv collection Recreation of Thrones can go to a number of iconic filming areas.
Irrespective of which itinerary one chooses, a Northern Eire highway journey guarantees to captivate the senses and create lasting recollections. As vacationers journey by means of the miles of pristine landscapes and immerse themselves within the wealthy cultural tapestry, they’ll acquire a deeper appreciation for the attract of this exceptional nook of the British Isles.
Northern Eire Street Journey Itinerary
Day 1: Belfast
Make your first cease in Belfast, the capital metropolis of Northern Eire. Take a Black Taxi tour and discover town’s wealthy historical past and tradition. A Blue Badge certified driver/information will present you round areas such because the Linen Quarter, Belfast Fort and the Queen’s Quarter. Our information Dessie was a real mine of details about town.
Subsequent, have lunch on the Titanic Resort within the Titanic Quarter. Go to the Titanic Belfast museum, the birthplace of the well-known ship.
From right here, it’s a brief stroll to SS Nomadic in Hamilton Dock. The tender ship for RMS Titanic, this totally restored vessel was inbuilt 1911. She was additionally in service throughout two world wars and as a restaurant venue in Paris.
When you’ve got time, go to HMS Caroline in Alexandra Dock, the final surviving ship from the Battle of Jutland. Afterwards, stroll by means of the colourful Cathedral Quarter. In case you’re visiting on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday, don’t overlook to cease at St. George’s Market – it’s the proper place for some native meals and purchasing.
Day 2: Antrim Coast
The second day takes you alongside the gorgeous Antrim Coast. Drive alongside the scenic coastal highway, admiring the spectacular cliffs, stunning seashores and seaside cities.
Carrickfergus Fort on Belfast Lough is likely one of the finest preserved medieval buildings in Eire. This Norman fort was inbuilt 1177 by John de Courcy.
Take a stroll alongside Whiterocks Seashore in Portrush, and discover Ballycastle Seashore with its views of Rathlin Island. Wrap up your day with a go to to the long-lasting Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge close to Ballintoy.
Day 3: Causeway Coastal Route
Proceed your Northern Irish highway journey by means of the breathtaking Causeway Coastal Route. Marvel on the geological surprise of Large’s Causeway and discover the ruins of the medieval Dunluce Fort.
Followers of Recreation of Thrones may go to a number of filming areas located alongside this route. Cease by the beautiful village of Bushmills, the place the principle attraction is the well-known whiskey distillery.
Day 4: Derry and County Down
Head to the historic metropolis of Derry on the fourth day. Stroll across the historic metropolis partitions and discover the streets lined with Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian buildings.
In a while, drive to County Down and immerse your self in the fantastic thing about the Mourne Mountains. One of the simplest ways to see the world is to hike or bike by means of the paths to soak up the gorgeous landscapes.
Day 5: Return to Belfast
In your last day, make your approach again to Belfast. If time permits, go to County Armagh, also referred to as the Orchard of Eire. Cease by Lengthy Meadow Farm, a family-run orchard rising apples for 3 generations. Style their delectable ciders earlier than heading again to Belfast to finish your memorable Northern Eire highway journey.
High Sights and Actions in Northern Eire
Large’s Causeway
The Large’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Website, is a must-visit vacation spot on a Northern Eire highway journey. This pure surprise is comprised of over 40,000 basalt columns, shaped by cooling lava greater than 60 million years in the past. It has created a formidable stepped panorama.
The Large’s Causeway Customer Expertise contains an audio information accessible in 11 languages, an interactive exhibition, guided tour, a present store and cafe and onsite parking. There’s a bus taking you proper to the Large’s Causeway for individuals who have mobility points, costing £1 for a one-way ticket or £2 return.
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is an exhilarating expertise alongside the Causeway Coastal Route. Suspended 30 meters above the ocean, this rope bridge connects the mainland to the small island of Carrick-a-Rede. It was erected by salmon fishermen greater than 200 years in the past.
Crossing the bridge presents breathtaking views and a little bit of an adrenaline rush. Permit a few hours to go to this website, because it takes round 15-20 minutes to stroll to the bridge itself from the automotive park.
You might also want to attend a couple of minutes to cross the bridge itself at peak instances. For security, the crossing is managed by a guard and restricted to at least one or two individuals at any time. We recommend that you simply guide your ticket upfront to keep away from disappointment at busy instances.
Dunluce Fort
Dunluce Fort is a surprising medieval break perched on the sting of a cliff, surrounded by dramatic coastal surroundings. Constructed within the thirteenth century, this stunning place has a wealthy historical past relationship again to the reign of each the McQuillan and MacDonnell clans. They fought fiercely for management over the fort all through the centuries.
Positioned close to Bushmills, Dunluce Fort attracts guests from throughout who come to marvel at its majestic setting. In addition to self-guiding, there are guided excursions accessible that provide an insightful glimpse into the fort’s previous and the thrilling tales that it holds.
Hillsborough Fort and Gardens
Hillsborough Fort is a surprising instance of the elegant Georgian architectural type that may be discovered all through Northern Eire. Constructed within the 1770s by Wills Hill, 1st Marquess of Downshire, it’s the official residence of the Secretary of State for Northern Eire, in addition to a royal residence.
Though it’s nonetheless used for official functions, the fort is open for excursions with an informative information, who will take guests by means of the elegant halls. This gorgeous fort will also be rented for company occasions, weddings and dinners.
Highlights of a tour embody the State Rooms, which have hosted many historic occasions through the years, in addition to the gorgeous gardens unfold over 100 acres. Highlights embody Yew Tree Stroll, the just lately restored Walled Backyard and Girl Alice’s Temple.
Simply 20 minutes from Belfast, a go to to Hillsborough Fort is a should for anybody taken with Northern Eire’s wealthy historical past and structure.
Titanic Belfast
The Titanic Belfast museum is an important cease for historical past lovers. Positioned inside the Titanic Quarter, this modern museum reveals the wealthy maritime historical past of town and tells the story of the ill-fated Titanic, which was inbuilt Belfast.
The museum presents a novel and fascinating expertise, that includes 9 interactive galleries and restored shipyard installations.
Darkish Hedges
The Darkish Hedges, a protracted avenue of twisted beech timber, is a well-liked vacation spot for Recreation of Thrones followers, because it was featured within the widespread TV collection. This enchanting tree-lined highway in Ballymoney creates an eerie and photogenic environment, excellent for a memorable highway journey cease.
This part of Bregagh Street is pedestrianized, nonetheless there’s a paid car parking zone a ten minute stroll away.
Recreation of Thrones Filming Places
For followers of the hit TV present, a highway journey by means of Northern Eire is the proper alternative to go to varied Recreation of Thrones filming areas. Along with the Darkish Hedges, spots similar to Ballintoy Harbour, Loch Neagh, Tollymore Forest Park, and Downhill Seashore had been all used in the course of the present’s manufacturing.
You too can take a Recreation of Thrones Studio Tour at Linen Mills Studio in Banbridge. Simply half-hour from Belfast, this immersive expertise offers guests the possibility to take a seat on the Iron Throne and see the props from the long-lasting TV collection.
Strolling Excursions and Boat Journeys
Northern Eire presents a variety of strolling excursions and boat journeys to additional discover its fascinating landscapes. Coastal walks, such because the Causeway Coastal Path, present gorgeous vistas, whereas guided strolling excursions are a chance to study in regards to the area’s historical past.
Boat journeys supply a special perspective of the shoreline, with alternatives to identify marine wildlife and discover hidden gems like The Gobbins Cliff Path.
Northern Eire Scenic Landscapes and Coastal Drives
Causeway Coast
The Causeway Coast, stretching 120 miles from Belfast to Lough Foyle, is a world-famous scenic driving route, showcasing among the finest landscapes and shoreline in Northern Eire. As you drive alongside this picturesque route, you’ll be captivated by the gorgeous surroundings, which incorporates the long-lasting Large’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage website.
Alongside the coast, different must-see stops embody the haunting define of Dunluce Fort on a rocky Atlantic Ocean outcrop, and the thrilling Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, which suspends guests above the crashing waves beneath. The Causeway Coast presents extra than simply breathtaking landscapes; it additionally immerses guests in wealthy historical past and geological wonders.
Antrim Coast
The Antrim Coast Street, a 195-mile route, is one other implausible journey to expertise the attraction of Northern Eire’s shoreline. This space is understood for its dramatic cliffs, secluded seashores, and charming villages.
One of many highlights alongside the Antrim Coast Street is the quaint Glenarm Fort, with its meticulously maintained walled backyard, providing an ideal spot to chill out and take within the views.
Whereas driving alongside the Antrim Coast, it’s arduous to not be in awe of the majestic backdrop of the Mourne Mountains. These peaks will not be solely visually gorgeous but in addition present ample alternatives for climbing and exploring.
As you proceed your journey, be sure you cease by Lough Neagh, the most important freshwater lake within the British Isles, the place guests can take pleasure in leisurely boat rides or a serene stroll alongside its shores.
Glenariff Forest Park
This 1185 hectare forest in County Antrim is a paradise for nature lovers. The park boasts among the most stunning surroundings within the nation, that includes rolling hills, lush forests, and breathtaking waterfalls.
The customer centre is the proper place to begin for exploring the park’s many strolling trails and studying in regards to the space’s wealthy heritage.
Coast Street
The Coast Street is a shorter, but equally scenic drive targeted on Northern Eire’s northern shoreline. Winding by means of picturesque landscapes, this route presents an ever-changing panorama of rugged cliffs, unspoiled seashores, idyllic harbors, and charming cities.
Whether or not you select to discover the Causeway Coast, Antrim Coast, or the Coast Street, every journey presents an unforgettable expertise of Northern Eire’s breathtaking landscapes and fascinating shoreline.
Northern Eire Cities and Cities to Discover
Belfast
Belfast is the capital metropolis of Northern Eire and an incredible place to begin on your highway journey. Town is a hub of tradition, historical past, and trendy sights.
Go to the Titanic Belfast museum to study in regards to the iconic ship’s historical past, or discover the gorgeous structure at Belfast Metropolis Corridor. Don’t overlook to take a stroll by means of the colourful St. George’s Market, the place you could find native crafts and scrumptious meals.
Derry
Derry, also referred to as Londonderry, is the second-largest metropolis in Northern Eire and is understood for its well-preserved metropolis partitions. Stroll alongside the partitions to see gorgeous views of town and delve into its wealthy historical past.
The Peace Bridge, an iconic image of unity between communities, and the Tower Museum that showcases town’s previous are each price seeing.
Bushmills
Bushmills is a cute city in County Antrim, well-known for its whiskey manufacturing. The Outdated Bushmills Distillery presents guided excursions the place you’ll be able to study in regards to the course of, in addition to whiskey tastings the place you’ll be able to strive their famend merchandise.
Ballintoy
Ballintoy is a picturesque village alongside the Causeway Coastal Route. It presents gorgeous sea views and a captivating harbor, the place you’ll be able to take pleasure in a conventional seafood lunch.
The village can be a preferred vacation spot for Recreation of Thrones followers, because it was used as a filming location for the Iron Islands. Near Ballintoy, you’ll be able to go to the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, an adrenaline-pumping attraction that gives breathtaking views of the shoreline.
Armagh
Armagh is a metropolis steeped in historical past and regarded the non secular capital of Eire. Town is residence to 2 gorgeous cathedrals that honor St. Patrick, the patron saint of Eire.
Go to the Armagh Observatory and Planetarium for an academic and entertaining expertise. The Navan Centre & Fort is a well-liked spot providing an interactive journey by means of town’s historic historical past.
Newcastle
Whereas exploring these cities and cities, think about making a detour to Newcastle, a coastal resort city in County Down. Benefit from the beautiful seashores or take a scenic stroll by means of the Mourne Mountains, which impressed CS Lewis’ Narnia.
Northern Eire Lodging Choices
Lodges
Northern Eire boasts quite a few resorts catering to totally different budgets and preferences. One upscale possibility within the space is Galgorm, a luxurious spa and golf resort that provides distinctive facilities and companies. Company can chill out within the Thermal Village overlooking a cascade, bask in remedies on the world-class spa, play golf at a championship course, and revel in scrumptious foods and drinks on the resort’s a number of eating venues.
The property boasts stunning grounds, offering ample alternative for reflection amidst the peaceable environment. We stayed in a spacious shepherd’s hut, full with a firepit and out of doors bathtub on the terrace. There’s additionally a bathe room and effectively outfitted kitchen contained in the luxurious hut.
There’s an excellent vary of eating choices, together with Gillies Grill, which we actually loved, Fratelli Ristorante, afternoon tea within the Conservatory, and Fort Kitchen + Bar at Galgorm Fort Golf Membership, in addition to a number of bars.
One other widespread Northern Eire vacation spot is The Rabbit Resort & Retreat. Recognized for its trendy, modern design, this boutique resort offers excellent lodging and a calming environment for company to unwind.
Its prime location in Templepatrick ensures easy accessibility to Belfast and County Antrim. Take a dip within the out of doors pool with its glittering mirror ball, have a calming spa remedy or take pleasure in a cocktail on the Seashore Bar. Seize a chew to eat at The Rabbit restaurant, or cosy up in entrance of the hearth in Hunter’s Bar.
B&Bs
Northern Eire additionally presents a variety of charming mattress and breakfast lodging that present a comfortable and cozy keep. A superb possibility is Millbrae Lodges, a captivating B&B in Crumlin. Anticipate a hearty breakfast together with personalised, heat hospitality.
In abstract, Northern Eire presents a various choice of lodging choices to swimsuit totally different budgets and preferences. Whether or not selecting a comfortable B&B or an expensive resort, guests can count on heat hospitality, wonderful service, and easy accessibility to the area’s gorgeous sights.
Northern Eire Meals and Drink Suggestions
Throughout your Northern Eire highway journey, you’ll need to be sure to indulge within the native flavors and eating experiences.
In County Antrim you’ll discover the charming Glenarm Fort Tea Rooms. Positioned within the outdated Mushroom Home, it is a excellent place to take pleasure in a choice of do-it-yourself savories and desserts. Attempt the award-winningShorthorn Beef from Glenarm Property, or head to The Milk Parlour for gelato from the Shorthorn herd milk.
One other good cease on your itinerary is Harry’s Shack. This widespread beachside eatery in Portstewart presents a spectacular view of the coast and serves up contemporary seafood dishes like fish and chips, oysters, and crab. Their menu is seasonal and regionally sourced, guaranteeing the freshest and most scrumptious components.
In case you’re visiting Hillsborough Fort, depart a while for lunch in both the Weston Pavilion Café or the Steady Yard Café. The Weston Pavilion is open April by means of September, from Wednesday to Sunday and the Steady Yard Café is open from June to September, additionally from Wednesday to Sunday.
When in Belfast, lunch on the Titanic Resort is a should. This historic constructing was the previous headquarters of Titanic shipbuilders Harland & Wolff, and it nonetheless retains many unique options. Dine in Drawing Workplace Two, the place RMS Titanic was designed, or the Wolff Grill, and revel in a mix of basic and modern dishes.
A go to to Northern Eire could be incomplete with out attempting the native gin. Many eating places and bars supply quite a lot of artisan gins, similar to Shortcross Gin and Belfast Artisan Distillery Gin. They’re usually infused with orchard fruits or different regionally sourced flavors.
By experiencing these foods and drinks suggestions, you’ll acquire a style of the colourful culinary tradition that Northern Eire has to supply whereas having fun with your scenic highway journey.
Spas in Northern Eire
Northern Eire just isn’t solely identified for its gorgeous landscapes and wealthy historical past but in addition for its luxurious spas that cater to these in search of leisure and rejuvenation. Among the many high spas within the area, Galgorm and The Rabbit Resort stand out as widespread locations for vacationers and locals alike.
Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort is likely one of the most famous spas in Northern Eire. Positioned simply half-hour from Belfast, this premier luxurious resort and spa presents a variety of amenities and coverings that cater to all preferences.
With an indoor pool, a gorgeous out of doors Thermal Village, and quite a lot of indulgent remedies, company can discover leisure and well-being in a serene setting. Attempt the Celtic Sauna Infusion, or the OTO Quartz remedy.
The Celtic Sauna Infusion is included in Shepherd’s Hut stays at Galgorm, and for these staying in different kinds of lodging it may be added on at £15 per individual. Company staying in a Deluxe room or Suite have a non-public spa expertise included of their keep – a non-public bathing expertise, Galgorm detox remedy or mud rasul.
One other notable spa vacation spot is The Rabbit Resort in Templepatrick. This boutique resort is nestled inside lush gardens and presents a tranquil escape from day by day life.
The Rabbit Resort’s spa has a concentrate on holistic well-being, offering therapeutic remedies and rejuvenating experiences. The non-public Duo Clay Expertise, which is included for all resort company, is nice enjoyable. The cabins overlook the river, and the mix of mud and steam left our pores and skin feeling tremendous easy.
Whereas embarking on a Northern Eire highway journey, don’t miss the chance to pamper your self with a go to to one among these luxurious spas. Whether or not you’re searching for pure leisure, holistic therapeutic, or a connection to historic class, you’re positive to search out the proper spa expertise in Northern Eire.
Tips on how to Get round Northern Eire
When planning a Northern Eire highway journey itinerary, there are a number of transportation choices to think about. This part will cowl two of the principle choices: rental automobiles and buses, in addition to the choice possibility of trains.
Rental Automobiles
A rental automotive is commonly essentially the most handy and versatile selection for a highway journey. You may lease automobiles from varied suppliers, with Uncover Automobiles being a preferred possibility. Renting a automotive makes it simple to discover Northern Eire by yourself schedule, stopping on the many sights and sights alongside the way in which. Whereas driving out of the country could be a bit daunting, roads in Northern Eire are well-maintained, and driving is on the left-hand facet of the highway.
Some issues to think about when renting a automotive embody:
- Insurance coverage protection
- Kind of automotive (automated or handbook transmission)
- Rental location and drop-off level
Buses
Buses are a budget-friendly possibility, and the general public transport system in Northern Eire within reason dependable. You may journey by bus between main cities like Belfast and Derry/Londonderry, in addition to to among the smaller cities and sights. Nevertheless, this selection could also be much less handy for these trying to cease at a number of areas alongside the way in which.
When utilizing buses on your highway journey, bear in mind to:
- Plan your route upfront
- Test bus timetables
- Buy tickets forward of time if potential
Trains
Trains in Northern Eire are an alternative choice for touring between main locations. Whereas the prepare community is proscribed in comparison with international locations like England or France, there are companies between bigger cities like Belfast and Derry/Londonderry, in addition to to smaller cities within the area.
Trains may be extra comfy and quicker than buses, however they could not service all of the factors alongside your chosen itinerary.
Listed here are a number of suggestions for touring by prepare in Northern Eire:
- Test prepare schedules and buy tickets upfront
- Concentrate on the restricted prepare community
- Take into account combining prepare journey with one of many different transport choices similar to renting a automotive, for better flexibility
Tips on how to Get to Northern Eire
Northern Eire, a land of gorgeous pure magnificence and wealthy cultural heritage, attracts guests from everywhere in the world. In relation to getting right here, there are a number of choices to think about.
The area is well-served by three airports – Belfast Worldwide Airport, George Greatest Belfast Metropolis Airport and Metropolis of Derry Airport. They provide a variety of direct flights from cities throughout Europe and past. We flew out and in of George Greatest Belfast Metropolis Airport and it was a very fast and pain-free expertise, being simply 3 miles from town middle. You might additionally fly to Dublin airport within the Republic of Eire.
In case you’re searching for a very scenic route, the ferry is a well-liked selection for these touring from Scotland, England, and Wales. Sailings depart repeatedly from ports in Liverpool, Cairnryan, and Holyhead, and arrive at Belfast or Larne. Whichever approach you select to embark upon your Northern Eire journey, you’re assured a heat welcome upon arrival.
Steadily Requested Questions
What number of days are wanted for a Northern Eire highway journey itinerary?
A highway journey in Northern Eire can fluctuate in length relying in your pursuits and time constraints. A 2-day itinerary is feasible, however to completely expertise the area’s magnificence and historic websites, a 5-day journey is really helpful.
Greatest time to go to?
The most effective time to go to Northern Eire for a highway journey is in the course of the spring and summer time months. On this interval, the climate is extra favorable, and you’ll really admire the luxurious landscapes and gorgeous shoreline.
Advisable itineraries?
There are a number of highway journey itineraries in Northern Eire to select from. Some widespread sights and landscapes to go to embody the Causeway Coastal Route, Large’s Causeway, Glens of Antrim, Lough Neagh, Recreation of Thrones filming areas, Whiterocks Seashore, and Ballycastle Seashore.
Journey with out a automotive?
Whereas a automotive is essentially the most handy mode of transportation for a highway journey, it’s not the one possibility. Northern Eire’s public transport system, together with buses and trains, can enable vacationers to go to key sights. Nevertheless, it might restrict your flexibility and spontaneity in the course of the journey.
Eire mixed journey?
Combining a visit to Northern Eire with a go to to the Republic of Eire is a superb concept. This manner, you’ll be able to expertise each international locations’ distinctive cultural and pure magnificence. Make sure you allocate sufficient time for each international locations, as there’s a lot to find.
Driving length?
Driving length throughout a Northern Eire highway journey will fluctuate relying in your chosen routes and stops. Usually, Northern Eire’s dimension permits for manageable driving distances, and lots of sights are inside 2-3 hours of one another.
Closing Ideas on this Northern Eire Journey Itinerary
In case you’re searching for a very mesmerizing vacation, look no additional than Northern Eire. And with all of the unbelievable sights to see, there might be loads of locations to save lots of for spherical two.
You may make it as large or as small of an journey as you want; with this highway journey itinerary, your vacation has limitless potentialities. Whether or not you’re in Northern Eire for a day, every week or extra, you’ll discover that this stunning province will present countless alternatives for enjoyable and exploration.
In case you’re prepared for some moody panorama and exquisite sights, pack up your automotive and prepare to go. Take this final information to one of the best locations in Northern Eire with you! Be sure to take a look at our different journey articles if you would like some extra inspiration – we’ve obtained one thing for each form of traveler.
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