Northern Ireland City Breaks

A guide to Northern Ireland

With its proximity to Scotland and the north of England, Northern Ireland is a great choice for a weekend away. It is a good option for those looking for a last minute trip, with convenient transport links by both air and sea allowing you to arrive at your chosen city break destination within just hours of setting off. Bright cities, stunning natural scenery and welcoming locals make a visit to Northern Ireland fun and relaxing, whilst those in search of history and culture will have plenty to keep themselves occupied.

Head to Belfast, for plenty of sights

Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland, and the country’s largest city, as well as its most popular short break destination. Situated on the east coast at the mouth of the River Lagan, Belfast benefits from attractive riverside promenades and nearby scenic coastal areas, as well as good transport links by ferry from Scotland and the north of England. The city is home to a medley of architectural styles, from Edwardian to contemporary, with areas such as the Cathedral Quarter giving it an impressive sense of history, while modern buildings, such as the Waterfront Hall add dynamism to the cityscape. A wide range of national museums and galleries can be found throughout Belfast, as well as stunning parks and gardens including the pleasant Botanic Gardens in Queen’s Quarter, and Belfast Zoo.

History and a unique culture to discover

Northern Ireland’s unique history stretches over the centuries, with monuments and museums telling its story, from its ancient roots to the much more recent and turbulent past. Belfast’s Ulster Museum, located in the Botanic Gardens, is a good way to learn more about the history of the region, with a range of social history exhibits alongside some of the country’s natural history. Alternatively, Northern Ireland’s second largest city Londonderry, in the north-west, is another good option for historical sightseeing. The only remaining fully walled city in Northern Ireland, and one of the best examples of its kind in Europe, Londonderry has plenty to offer the interested visitor.