Weekends are the perfect time to spend with family, your partner, or with friends, and finding the right place makes those memories extra special. Heading across the Irish Sea to Northern Ireland might be the ideal spot to consider for a weekend away. It can feel like more than just a staycation. So if you are looking for a great place to go for a weekend away, here are the top picks in Northern Ireland.
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Weekend trips to Northern Ireland – Where to visit
The UK is very much under-explored. With so many wonderful locations within it, and regions that are diverse and different but equally have so much to offer, there is a lot to see and do. However, while you may be aware of some of the best locations to enjoy a weekend away, you might often feel a little indecisive about where to go and what to do.
Belfast
One of the best places to visit in Northern Ireland has to be Belfast. It is the capital city and offers everything that you would expect from a fantastic location. It can be a relaxing break, or you may want to fill your weekend with entertainment and things to do. One of the great attractions is Titanic Belfast. The Titanic was built in Belfast, so while you are there you will be able to explore the hosiery, how it was created, and some facts about the sinking that happened in the Atlantic Ocean. There is also some incredible footage that will give you goosebumps.
You will also find plenty of shops, bars, and restaurants to enjoy while you are there. It is a great location and the perfect spot for a weekend away with friends, family, or a loved one.
County Antrim
Belfast actually sits in the region of County Antrim, but while it is just one part of this area, there really is a lot more to explore. The city of Belfast is amazing, but in the area of County Antrim, you will be able to explore the 400-year-old grounds of the Antrim Castle, as well as enjoying the walled garden of Glenarm Castle. There are plenty of historical areas and attractions within the area perfect for you to explore.
Derry-Londonderry
The Causeway Coastal Route is one of the best things you can do and could be enjoyed during a weekend, but the starting or endpoint will be Derry-Londonderry. This is a beautiful city that is worthy of a weekend escape in all its glory anyway. There are few places these days that have such a history. It is one of the only truly walled cities left. You can enjoy the walls and take a stroll along them while taking in some of the other historical sites along the way. Beyond the walls you have County Londonderry, which has a lot of countryside, walking trails and things for you to do.
The city has been classed as up and coming, so there is an abundance of bars and restaurants for you to enjoy. There is also a plethora of shops for you to browse from high street favourites to independent boutiques. A fabulous location for a weekend away.
County Down
South of Belfast and County Antrim, you enter into the region of County Down. There are some incredible white sandy beaches and coastline that you might expect from a rugged Irish landscape. There are some beautiful castles to explore, first parks that you can wander through, and also stately homes. Offering a perfect mix of fun and relaxation in the area. Golf lovers will love the Top Links golf course. It is a great location that offers people heading there for a weekend away, the perfect mix of things to do. It is quieter than some of the other regions, but there is still plenty of pubs, restaurants, and bars to keep you entertained in the evening.
Other places in the South East worthwhile visiting
There are, of course, many places in the South East worthy of visiting and could be included as part of your weekend away in the area. Here are some of the other top locations to think about:
- The Causeway Coastal Route (One of the best road trips you can do. There are so many great places along the way)
- County Armagh (Here you can explore an ancient pagan ceremonial site, any fan of St. Patrick can find out more about the history here at the St. Patricks Hilltop Cathedrals)
Hopefully, this has given you plenty of inspiration for some of the best places for you to enjoy a weekend away in Northern Ireland.
