Exploring Northern Ireland with the Family
Northern Ireland is a beautiful part of the world, filled with miles of stunning coastline and plenty of awe-inspiring scenes of unspoiled wilderness. In addition to this natural beauty, there are countless picturesque towns and villages and the bustling urban metropolis of Belfast just waiting to be explored.
The beauty of Northern Ireland lies in the fact that it remains largely unspoiled by the large numbers of tourists which usually descend on many parts of Europe during the summer season. This means that it is the perfect destination for those who prefer a more relaxing, laid-back break, away from all the crowds found at the most popular attractions and holiday destinations.
The region’s close proximity to mainland UK also makes it a perfect location for family holidays. Long-haul flights and lengthy trips can be a nightmare with bored young children in tow, yet Northern Ireland offers all the excitement of travel abroad without the hassle.
Although the summer may be almost over, it is never too early to start thinking ahead and planning your next holiday. After all, you understandably want everything to go as smoothly as possible, which is why it is important to be prepared – even if it is pretty far in advance!
Exploring the City
Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland, meaning that it is well worth a visit. The city is great for culture lovers and history buffs alike, offering a wide range of sights and attractions that will keep both you and the kids entertained! Spend a relaxing day wandering the streets and simply taking in the atmosphere of the city, or find time for a trip to one of the city’s main tourist attractions. Crumlin Road Gaol is popular thanks to its rich history, or alternatively, learn all about the infamous voyage and subsequent disaster at Titanic Belfast.
Aside from Belfast, another city well worth a visit is Derry. Offering the perfect combination of history, tradition and culture, Derry is a city with something to suit every unique visitor. Stop off in a quaint café for a coffee and a bite to eat, before heading out for an interesting walk around the historic city walls.
Exploring the Countryside
City life not your thing? Instead, why not head away from the town and into the beautiful countryside that this region has to offer. There are plenty of walking routes and trails for the more active visitors, or alternatively, you can take some time to explore one of the area’s stunning natural attractions. Castles and nature reserves dot the coastline and heading inland, there are still plenty of places to visit and things to do. In addition, older fans may be interested to see some of the locations where the hit TV show Game of Thrones is filmed. While you might be hard-pressed to catch a glimpse of a dragon, the beautiful countryside is more than worth a visit in its own right too.
Of course, one of the most unmissable attractions on your must-see list is the Giant’s Causeway. This striking natural formation is known across the world for its beauty and wonder and is also the only UNESCO world heritage site in Northern Ireland. If you still want to see the sights but don’t want to drive so far out from the city, a Giant’s Causeway tour departing from Belfast could be the perfect option for you and your family.
There are plenty of destinations and attractions on offer to suit every individual taste and personal preference. Even the pickiest of kids are sure to be wowed by some of the sights of Northern Ireland, and the natural wonders are guaranteed to make for a family holiday that will be remembered for many more years to come.
*** This is a collaborative post ***
Ireland is indeed beautiful. I love seeing old architecture. I didn’t know some of the Game of Thrones’s locations were shot there. I’m thrilled!
I’ve never watched it but I’m told this is a real selling point! xx
Ireland seems like a beautiful place, I definitely need to visit one day. I always hear great things about Northern Ireland!
It’s absolutely stunning Whitney! xx
Ireland is at the top of our bucket list and has been one place we are both dying to explore. I didn’t know Game of Thrones was filmed there, lol, I don’t watch it but my husband is a huge fan. More leverage, yay!
Haha yes! I know this would appeal to a lot of people!! xx
To be honest, I’ve always wanted to visit Ireland. Outside of its beauty and culture, It just seems so peaceful there. I watch an Irish YouTuber named Riyadh K who is from there.
It really is such a peaceful place isn’t it?! xx
This looks so beautiful. I think the country side would be my favorite. My husband is Irish and he’s always wanted to visit, might have to add this to the list!
Yes it’s a gorgeous country! Would recommend a visit! xx
OMG! This is such a wonderful place! I got so excited to learn that GOT was filmed here? WAAAAAAAAAAA
xx Kamille | http://www.kamilleking.com
I live in the UK and I have been all over the world but never to Ireland or Northern Ireland! Ive always wanted to go! The castles sound great, so does Belfast and Id live to see the Giants Causway!
Hi there, pleasantly surprised to read a post on Ireland as I’m an Irish blogger and I live outside Dublin. Yes , Belfast is a happening city now and as time moves on its beginning to thrive and come into its own. Northern Ireland in general is particularly beautiful and especially the Giants Causeway. Are you from Ireland!
That looks like an amazing trip. It’s so nice you were able to visit with your family. That castle is so pretty. My dog would love to walk that shoreline.
You know what I think, sometimes only a photograph is perfect to tell us about the place. No need to worry about writing! Ireland looks so impressive in that photo itself. Just loved it.
Oh, wow! I’ve never been to Northern Ireland before. It looks absolutely beautiful though 🙂
Louise x
I love Northern Ireland. It is so beautiful and wild. I love staying Bushmills and the fish and chips in the restaurant in the hotel is delicious.
Ooh I haven’t heard of Bushmills, will have to look it up! xx
Oh Ireland is just stunning! I’m still kicking myself for not squeezing a day or two when I was studying abroad in England. But I have to make it happen so because Belfast looks amazing.
It really is stunning, I am yet to see enough of it! xx
Ireland is a place my husband has always wanted to visit. If we’re ever lucky enough to, I know we’d love to visit some of the places Game of Thrones was produced (for him) and go hiking in the nature reserves (for her). x
This looks like a beautiful place to visit. I love the sea side and can stand by those rocks for hours!
I didn’t know that the Game of Thrones were filmed there. The countryside is truly beautiful. Another TV show that they watch was filmed there is cold Outlander.
Nor me!! I’ve never seen the show though! xx
Oh, I always enjoy reading your new posts. I really want to go to Ireland someday. I told the boyfriend that if we ever get married that I want our honeymoon to be what we spend the money on. Not the wedding. I told him I’d want to go to Ireland. It looks so beautiful.
Wow! Ireland looks a beautiful place. I will definitely put this on my travel wish list.
I’d love to take my two to explore Northern Ireland. Such a beautiful part of the world. I’m a huge GoT fan as well, so would love to visit the set!
It really is a beautiful part of the world. xx
I haven’t been to Northern Ireland in a while and love the idea of visiting the Giants Causeway. Belfast is a city I’m keen to explore.