Northern Ireland

The province of Northern Ireland is compact and every corner is easily reached from the capital Belfast.  The province is divided into the 6 counties of Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Londonderry and Tyrone.  Northern Ireland is for those who love the great outdoors and fascinating history. One visited, it is never forgotten. 

BELFAST
Belfast is the capital of the province and where the Northern Ireland government sits.  It has the largest urban area in the province and is also the UK’s 15th largest city.   The city has recently undergone some regeneration and has enjoyed a sustained period of relative calm following conflicts of past.  Today it gives us some fascinating history and heritage to enjoy.   Start at the waterfront and see the water gushing underneath the city.  It was the Victorians that left their mark.  They made their money as great shipbuilders and engineers and left some magnificent architecture behind.  Some of the more prominent buildings in the city are the City Hall, The Linen Hall Library with it’s great collection of books and many preserved Victorian Pubs.  Back to the present day, like any other city you can boutique shop, enjoy numerous children’s activities, and indulge in it's arts and culture.

ANTRIM
To the North of Belfast lies the nine glens of Antrim and this was the last place in the county where Gaelic was spoken.  Between Larne and Portrush are the Glens revealing the Giant Causeway, arguably the province’s most famous attraction. This really is stunning landscape. Continue on through this scenic route and there are plenty of photo opportunities.  Climb Torr Head and you may be able to see the Mull of Kintyre and the outline of Scotlands West coast. There are some beautiful little coastal villages in Antrim and the 14 mile North Antrim Cliff path runs from the causeway to Carrick-a-rede which is a small offshore rock connected by a swinging rope bridge. En route you will also find some delightful beaches and castles. This is beautiful area but be prepared - there are no shops, cinemas or nightlight, just the great outdoors!

LONDONDERRY
The city of Derry as some varied heritage.  The City Walls are home to numerous historic attractions including many art and culture venues.  Visit the Tower Museum to hear Derry’s story and the Museum of Free Derry in Bogside to find out about the troubles and Bloody Sunday.  Discover the area’s natural resources on the banks of the Foyle at The Riverside Visitor Centre and Aquarium.

TYRONE
This is the second largest of the nine counties and is made up of ancient moorland, steeping in history and Celtic remains.  The Creagan Visitor Centre near Omagh lets you discover more about the county’s ancient past.  Other attractions include Dungannon Park, Tyrone Crystal Visitors Centre and numerous historic sites and museums. 

FERMANAGH
The westernmost of the six counties is often referred to as Irelands Lake District.  There are extensive waterways and therefore boating and fishing are popular.  The counties main town is Enniskillen and here you can visit such popular attractions as the Enniskillen Castle and Castle Coole.

ARMAGH
The smallest of the six counties County Armagh is the centre of Christianity in Ireland for both Roman Catholics and the Church of Ireland and many of their leaders are based in the city. As with the other counties there is a broad range of historic attractions such as the Cathedrals, Gosford Castle and the Public Library including the first edition of Gulivers Travels. Armagh also has an observatory and Planetarium.

COUNTY DOWN
The most easily point of Northern Ireland includes the Ards Peninsula.  It is teeming with seabirds and pretty towns.  From the Peninsula you can see the Mourne Mountains. Take in some of the seaside towns such as Newcastle.  Newcastle is right in the middle of a five year redevelopment plan and is certainly going up in the world.  The prom has been rebuilt and new shops and hotels are starting to appear.