About the region
Travel to Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland is a breathtaking destination for tourists seeking natural beauty and rich history. Explore the iconic Giant's Causeway, a natural wonder made up of 40,000 basalt columns that are steeped in myth and legend. The rugged coastline also boasts the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, an exhilarating crossing over a chasm between the mainland and a tiny island. In the charming city of Belfast, delve into the past with a visit to the Titanic Belfast museum or admire the gothic architecture of the stunning St. Anne's Cathedral.
Travelers seeking cultural experiences can visit the Ulster Museum, which houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts, or head to the traditional St. George's Market to sample delicious local food and crafts. For a glimpse of Northern Ireland's troubled history, take a black cab tour of the political murals in Belfast or visit the Peace Wall, a symbol of hope and reconciliation.
Nature lovers will be enchanted by the verdant Glens of Antrim, a series of nine valleys filled with cascading waterfalls and ancient ruins. Meanwhile, history buffs can explore the ruins of Dunluce Castle, a 16th-century fortress perched atop a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. With its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, Northern Ireland is a must-visit destination for any traveler.
Getting to Northern Ireland
There are several ways to get to Northern Ireland, depending on your starting location and preferences. By air, you can fly into Belfast International Airport or George Best Belfast City Airport, both of which offer direct flights from many cities in the UK, Europe, and beyond. You can also fly into Dublin Airport in the Republic of Ireland, which is approximately 2 hours away from Belfast by car or public transportation.
If you prefer to travel by ferry, there are regular crossings from the ports of Liverpool, Cairnryan, and Isle of Man to Belfast or Larne. These routes are operated by various companies, including Stena Line, P&O Ferries, and Irish Ferries.
If you're driving, Northern Ireland is easily accessible from the Republic of Ireland via several border crossings, including the A1 from Dublin to Belfast. Alternatively, you can take the A5 from Dublin to Derry/Londonderry in the northwest of Northern Ireland.
Finally, if you're coming from Great Britain, you can take a train or coach to Belfast or Derry/Londonderry from various cities, including London, Glasgow, and Manchester. The journey times vary depending on the starting location and mode of transport.
Alternative and off the beaten track stays and experiences in Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland has a wealth of off the beaten track stays and experiences for travelers seeking unique and non-specialist accommodations. For a truly memorable stay, consider a night in a traditional Irish cottage or a shepherd's hut in the countryside. These cozy and rustic accommodations offer a glimpse into rural Irish life and are the perfect base for exploring the natural beauty of Northern Ireland. Many of these cottages and huts are located on working farms, so you can experience life as a farmer and even help out with the daily chores.
If you're looking for a more alternative stay, consider a night in a glamping pod or treehouse. These unique accommodations are perfect for nature lovers and offer a comfortable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional camping. You can enjoy a night under the stars in a cozy pod or treehouse, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Northern Irish countryside.
For a truly off the beaten track experience, consider a stay in a lighthouse or castle. Northern Ireland is home to several historic lighthouses that have been converted into unique and luxurious accommodations. These lighthouses offer stunning views of the coastline and are the perfect base for exploring the surrounding areas. Alternatively, you can stay in a castle or stately home, many of which have been converted into boutique hotels or bed and breakfasts. These historic accommodations offer a glimpse into Northern Ireland's rich cultural heritage and provide a luxurious and unique experience.
No matter what type of off the beaten track experience you're looking for, Northern Ireland has something to offer. From cozy cottages to luxurious castles, there are plenty of unique and non-specialist accommodations to choose from. So why not step off the beaten track and experience the best of Northern Irish hospitality?
Top 10 things to do in Northern Ireland
- Visit the Giant's Causeway, a stunning natural wonder made up of 40,000 basalt columns that are steeped in myth and legend.
- Explore the vibrant city of Belfast, including the Titanic Belfast museum, the gothic architecture of St. Anne's Cathedral, and the historic Crumlin Road Gaol.
- Cross the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, an exhilarating crossing over a chasm between the mainland and a tiny island.
- Admire the stunning scenery of the Glens of Antrim, a series of nine valleys filled with cascading waterfalls and ancient ruins.
- Delve into the past with a visit to the Ulster Museum, which houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts from Northern Ireland and beyond.
- Take a black cab tour of the political murals in Belfast to learn about the city's troubled past and ongoing peace process.
- Sample delicious local food and crafts at the traditional St. George's Market in Belfast.
- Experience the thrill of motorsports at the famous Ulster Grand Prix, one of the world's oldest and fastest road races.
- Explore the historic ruins of Dunluce Castle, a 16th-century fortress perched atop a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
- Walk the stunning Causeway Coast Way, a 52-mile trail that takes you along some of Northern Ireland's most breathtaking coastline, including the Giant's Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.
The climate of Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland has a temperate maritime climate, which means that it experiences mild winters and cool summers, with rainfall spread relatively evenly throughout the year. The average temperature in Northern Ireland during the winter months (December-February) is around 5-8°C (41-46°F), while during the summer months (June-August), it is around 16-19°C (61-66°F).
Rainfall is a common occurrence in Northern Ireland, with the wettest months usually being October through January, and the driest months typically being April through June. Snow is relatively rare in Northern Ireland, but it can occur during the winter months in higher elevations, particularly in the Sperrin Mountains and the Mourne Mountains.
The weather in Northern Ireland can be quite changeable, and it's not uncommon to experience a mix of sunshine, clouds, and rain all in one day. However, the country's mild climate makes it an ideal destination for outdoor activities year-round, from hiking and cycling to golfing and fishing. And with its lush green landscapes and stunning coastline, Northern Ireland is a beautiful place to explore no matter what the weather.