The Ultimate Northern Ireland Road Trip

Northern Ireland may be small, but it packs in more to see and do than many places twice its size. From the coastline of Antrim to the hills of Tyrone and the lakes of Fermanagh, this road trip will take you through every single county in Northern Ireland.

Buckle up – we’re off on an adventure!

Day 1: Belfast – The Gateway to Northern Ireland (County Antrim)

Your Northern Ireland road trip kicks off in Belfast, with plenty of museums, pubs, and stunning Victorian architecture, making it the perfect introduction to Northern Ireland.

What to Do

• Titanic Belfast – A visit to Belfast wouldn’t be complete without exploring this multi-award-winning museum dedicated to the city’s most famous ship. With interactive exhibits, reconstructions, and a deep dive into the shipyard’s history, it’s a must-see.

• Crumlin Road Gaol – This 19th-century prison once housed some of Ireland’s most notorious criminals and political prisoners. Today, guided tours take you through execution chambers, underground tunnels, and cells, making it an unforgettable experience.

• St. George’s Market – A Belfast institution that dates back to the 1890s. It’s the perfect place to grab breakfast, browse through stalls selling local crafts, and listen to live music.

• Cathedral Quarter – Filled with street art, buzzing pubs, and great restaurants - Make sure to stop at The Duke of York, one of the city’s most atmospheric watering holes.

• Belfast City Hall – A beautiful Edwardian building in the heart of the city, offering free guided tours that give an insight into Belfast’s history.

Where to Eat

• The Muddlers Club – Tucked away in the Cathedral Quarter, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers an ever-changing menu of modern Irish cuisine.

• Maggie Mays – Famous for its massive Ulster Fry, this is the place to go if you want a proper Northern Irish breakfast.

• The Crown Liquor Saloon – A historic Victorian pub known for its stunning interiors and classic Irish dishes.

Where to Stay

• The Merchant Hotel – A five-star luxury hotel in a grand former bank building with a rooftop hot tub, and a cocktail bar.

• Bullitt Hotel – A chic, modern hotel with stylish rooms, a buzzing rooftop bar, and a great café.

Day 2: The Causeway Coastal Route & Beyond (County Antrim & County Derry)

Today, you’ll be driving along the world-famous Causeway Coastal Route, often ranked among the most scenic drives in the world. 

What to Do

• The Gobbins Cliff Path – Start your day with a walk along this coastal path, which features suspension bridges, tunnels, and caves carved into the cliffs.

• Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge – This daring 20-metre rope bridge has connected the mainland to a tiny island for over 350 years. Cross it if you dare, and enjoy panoramic ocean views.

• Giant’s Causeway – No Northern Ireland road trip would be complete without stopping at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The iconic basalt columns were formed by volcanic activity, but legend says they were built by the giant Fionn MacCumhaill.

• Bushmills Distillery – One of the oldest whiskey distilleries in the world, Bushmills has been producing Irish whiskey since 1608. Take a tour, enjoy a tasting session, and maybe pick up a bottle of Black Bush as a souvenir.

• Dunluce Castle – These dramatic ruins are some of the most photogenic in Ireland. The castle is said to have inspired Cair Paravel in The Chronicles of Narnia!

• Portrush & Whiterocks Beach – A seaside town with sandy beaches. Perfect for a walk, surfing, or just enjoying an ice cream by the water.

Where to Eat

• Ramore Wine Bar (Portrush) – Famous for its fresh seafood, great cocktails, and lively atmosphere.

• Tartine at The Distillers Arms (Bushmills) – A fantastic spot for traditional Irish cuisine with a modern twist.

• Harry’s Shack (Portstewart) – A relaxed beachfront restaurant serving fresh, locally caught seafood.

Where to Stay

• Bayview Hotel (Portballintrae) – A hotel with seafront views and a cosy atmosphere.

• Bishop’s Gate Hotel (Derry) – A luxurious boutique hotel in the heart of Derry, perfect for the next stage of your trip.

• The Bushmills Inn – A historic coaching inn, right in the heart of whiskey country.

Day 3: Derry & The Sperrins (County Derry & County Tyrone)

Today, you’ll explore Derry, Northern Ireland’s second-largest city, before heading into County Tyrone.

What to Do

• Walk the 400-year-old City Walls – Derry is the only city in Ireland with completely intact medieval walls. Walk along them for incredible views.

• Visit the Museum of Free Derry – This museum tells the story of Derry’s civil rights movement and Bloody Sunday.

• Check out the Peace Bridge – A symbol of unity spanning the River Foyle, perfect for a walk.

• Drive into the Sperrin Mountains – One of Ireland’s most underrated mountain ranges, the Sperrins are perfect for hiking, cycling, and scenic drives. Highlights include:

  • The Glenshane Pass

  • Beaghmore Stone Circles

  • Gortin Glen Forest Park

Where to Eat

• Pyke ‘N’ Pommes (Derry) – A fantastic street-food-style eatery by the river, with delicious tacos, burgers, and fresh seafood.

• The Brewer’s House (Donaghmore, Tyrone) – A gastropub serving some of the best food in County Tyrone.

• Brown’s in Town (Derry) – A bistro with modern Irish cuisine using local ingredients.

Where to Stay

• Beech Hill Country House (Derry) – A country retreat surrounded by woodlands, with elegant rooms and a great restaurant.

• Corick House Hotel & Spa (Clogher, Tyrone) – A beautiful 18th-century mansion, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

• Shipquay Hotel (Derry) – A boutique hotel in Derry’s city centre, ideal for those who want to be in the heart of the action.

Day 4: The Lakes of Fermanagh (County Fermanagh)

County Fermanagh is ideal for nature lovers, with Lough Erne, a vast network of lakes, islands, and waterways that are perfect for exploring. 

What to Do

• Marble Arch Caves – One of the most impressive cave systems in Europe, offering guided tours that take you deep underground to see waterfalls, winding passageways, and ancient rock formations. The caves are part of the Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark.

• Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail – Also known as the "Stairway to Heaven," this iconic hike takes you across bogland before climbing to a viewpoint overlooking the countryside. 

• Lough Erne Boat Tour – Rent a boat or take a guided cruise to explore the Upper and Lower Lough Erne. 

• Enniskillen Castle – This historic fortress on the banks of the River Erne dates back to the 16th century and houses two museums: the Fermanagh County Museum and the Inniskillings Museum.

• Castle Coole – A grand 18th-century neoclassical mansion set on an estate. Take a tour of the house, walk through the surrounding woodlands, and imagine life in the time of the aristocracy.

Where to Eat

• 28 At The Hollow (Enniskillen) – A stylish yet casual dining experience, offering locally sourced ingredients and modern takes on Irish classics.

• The Catalina Restaurant (Lough Erne Resort) – Northern Ireland’s first 3 AA Rosette restaurant, perfect for a fine-dining experience with stunning views of the lough.

• Franco’s (Enniskillen) – A beloved Italian restaurant with a warm atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed evening meal.

Where to Stay

• Lough Erne Resort – A luxurious five-star resort offering spa treatments, golf, and fine dining in a spectacular lakeside setting.

• Westville Hotel (Enniskillen) – A stylish boutique hotel in the heart of Enniskillen, perfect for exploring the town.

• Finn Lough Bubble Domes – For a unique experience, book a stay in one of these transparent domes and sleep under the stars in the heart of nature.

Day 5: Armagh & The Orchard County (County Armagh)

County Armagh, known as the Orchard County, is known for its apple production. As the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland, it has stunning cathedrals, ancient sites, and fantastic local cider.

What to Do

• Armagh Observatory & Planetarium – A must-visit for stargazers and science lovers. Enjoy interactive exhibits, learn about space exploration, and even experience a digital dome theatre show that takes you on a journey through the universe.

• St. Patrick’s Cathedrals – Armagh has two impressive cathedrals dedicated to St. Patrick. The Church of Ireland Cathedral sits on the site where St. Patrick built his first church in 445 AD, while the Roman Catholic Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture.

• The Navan Centre & Fort – Step back in time at this fascinating Iron Age site, which is believed to have been the seat of the legendary Ulster kings. You can meet costumed characters, learn about Celtic mythology, and explore the ancient fort.

• Apple Orchard Tours – No visit to Armagh is complete without exploring the county’s famous orchards. Visit Armagh Cider Company or Long Meadow Cider for a tour of their apple farms, a tasting session, and a chance to learn about the traditional cider-making process.

• Gosford Forest Park – A fantastic place for nature walks, cycling, and even wild camping.

Where to Eat

• Uluru Bar & Grill (Armagh) – This restaurant offers a unique fusion of Irish and Australian cuisine, making it a must-try for foodies.

• Embers Restaurant – A cosy, family-run spot with a welcoming atmosphere and hearty meals.

• The Moody Boar – Located in Armagh Palace Demesne, this charming café serves locally sourced food in a relaxed setting.

Where to Stay

• Armagh City Hotel – A modern and comfortable hotel right in the heart of the city.

• Basil Sheils (Tassagh) – A countryside retreat offering a peaceful escape and great food in a traditional Irish pub setting.

Day 6: The Mournes & Beyond (County Down)

The final day of your road trip takes you to County Down, home to the Mourne Mountains, and some of the most picturesque coastal villages in Northern Ireland. 

What to Do

• Hike Slieve Donard – At 850m, Slieve Donard is Northern Ireland’s highest peak, with views over the Mournes, the Irish Sea, and even Scotland on a clear day. The hike takes around 4–5 hours round trip and is a rewarding challenge.

• Silent Valley Reservoir – The perfect place to unwind after a morning of hiking.

• Castle Ward – A beautiful 18th-century mansion and estate on the shores of Strangford Lough. Fans of Game of Thrones will recognize it as Winterfell, making it a must-visit for fans of the series. Try archery and medieval banquets at the on-site experience centre.

• Newcastle Beach & Promenade – A lovely place for an afternoon stroll, with charming cafés, ice cream shops, and great views of the Mournes meeting the sea.

Where to Eat

• The Mourne Seafood Bar (Dundrum) – A must-visit for seafood lovers, serving fresh oysters, mussels, and locally caught fish.

• Brunel’s (Newcastle) – A fine dining restaurant offering seasonal dishes with local ingredients.

• Hillyard House (Castlewellan) – A cosy gastropub serving great food in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Where to Stay

• Slieve Donard Resort & Spa – This luxurious hotel sits at the foot of Slieve Donard, with a spa, fine dining, and views over the sea.

• Denvir’s Downpatrick Hotel (Downpatrick) – An inn dating back to 1642, with traditional hospitality, great food, and a cosy atmosphere.

• The Cuan (Strangford) – A charming boutique hotel with views over Strangford Lough, perfect for a peaceful end to your trip.

Let us know your favourite Northern Ireland road trip spots!