Where to visit outside of Belfast? Great day trips from the city

You can easily spend days here sightseeing (the Titanic Belfast is a must) and you’d still have places left on your must-visit list. But there are so many delights to encounter across Northern Ireland. We highly recommend spreading your wings and venturing out on day trips from Belfast. Make the city (and room2 Belfast) your base and explore further afield from there. Here, we’ll share our recommendations for a day out from Belfast.

5 popular day trips from Belfast

There’s so much to experience across beautiful Northern Ireland. Here are five perennial favourites to get you started.

• Derry – The walled city of Derry oozes history. The city walls themselves date back to the 17th century. But its more recent history – The Troubles of the 1970s and 80s in particular – are also evident in this wonderful city. Make sure to take in the Peace Bridge. And for fans of the brilliant TV series, the Derry Girls mural is an absolute must for a selfie stop.
• Portrush – This scenic, coastal town is around an hour and 10 minutes from Belfast. It’s a perfect place to escape the city and take in the sea air. Potter around Portrush with a wander along the beach and a cuppa in a welcoming cafe. For the more adventurous, you can take a surf lesson in the summer months or enjoy the thrills of Curry’s Fun Park.
• Lisburn – A mere eight miles from Belfast city centre, Lisburn makes an ideal day trip. It’s a verdant city beside the River Lagan. Known as a historic textile producer (Irish linen anyone?), you’ll notice many interesting 18th century buildings around Lisburn. But it also has a vibrant cafe culture and vibrant shopping district. And if aircraft’s your thing, Ulster Aviation Society’s well worth a visit.
• Hillsborough – Just south of Lisburn, you’ll find the lush landscapes of Hillsborough. If you fancy a fix of history and greenery, Hillsborough Castle and Gardens make a grand day out. This Georgian estate is the official residence of the British Monarchy when they come to Northern Ireland. It’s been the site of significant diplomatic efforts and pivotal moments in British and Irish history. It also has 100 acres of woodland and gardens to explore.
• Dublin – A popular hotspot, Dublin is just over two hours away from Belfast by car. There’s so much to explore in this incredible city. Look around the impressive Trinity campus, check out the shops and bars on Grafton Street and admire the artworks at the National Gallery of Ireland. Then, of course, there’s the iconic Temple Bar and the ever popular Guinness factory tour.

The Causeway coastal route

This amazing Irish coastal route stretches 185km (115 miles) from Belfast to Derry. Along the way you’ll take in the Causeway Coast’s exceptional scenery, the wooded Glens of Antrim and world famous landmarks. Whether you’re dipping into it on a day trip, planning a weekend getaway or taking your time with a longer road trip, this legendary route is unmissable.

Key highlights include:

• The Giant’s Causeway – A geological marvel, the Giant’s Causeway is a UNESCO world heritage site. It comprises around 40,000 basalt columns which emerge from the sea off the North Coast of Antrim. Legend says that a giant named Fionn Mac Cumhaill built these stepping stones to reach Scotland. And on a clear day, you can see all the way across the water to Scotland.
• Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge – Are you brave enough to cross this famous rope bridge across a 20 metre wide chasm? It’s believed to date back to the 17th century when a salmon fisherman built it. The stunning views make it worth facing your fears to make the crossing.
• Carrickfergus Castle – This 12th Century Norman castle is an imposing landmark on the Antrim coast. Immerse yourself in the castle’s fascinating history and capture some striking photos to boot.
• Bushmills Whiskey Distillery – An Irish institution, Bushmills has been creating ‘water of life’ since 1608. A visit to Ireland’s oldest working distillery is highly recommended. And yes, you do get a taste!

What are the best day trips from Belfast for nature lovers?

There are plenty of opportunities to stretch your legs, boost your step count and take in our glorious rugged countryside. Head to the Mourne Mountains where you can climb Slieve Donard, the highest peak in Northern Ireland (it takes up to six hours). Or discover the magical woodland of Tollymore Forest on a two to three hour walking tour.

Newcastle is a pretty coastal resort at the foot of Slieve Donard in the Mourne Mountains. If you don’t fancy the six hour trek up the to its peak, stay in Newcastle and immerse yourself in nature and spectacular scenery.

Another exciting option is The Gobbins Cliff Path. It’s a two and a half hour walk along the Antrim coast. Expect to get windswept as well a blown away by the breathtaking natural surroundings. Look out for seals and dolphins in the water below.

An incredibly important place for nature conservation, Strangford Lough is unique and wonderful and under an hour from Belfast. Home to a huge variety of wildlife, Strangford Lough is the UK’s largest sea lough. Go for walks, hire a kayak or simply press pause on your busy life and connect with nature.