Date: 10 Jul 2020
Getting away for a holiday this year might not be an option for all of us, but luckily Northern Ireland (NI) has some of the best staycation experiences for all ages.
Whether you need some inspiration for a day trip with the kids or just want a weekend away to relax, check out our favourite things to do across NI and make the most of your holistays.
1. Taste & Tour
Kicking off again on the 1st August, Taste and Tour offers you the chance to get off the “eaten track” and explore the best food, drink, and culinary delights that NI has to offer.
Choose from the Whiskey Walk, 5 Stop Brunch, Belfast Bites, and plenty more. Prices start at £55 per person.
Find out more information, including details of the tours, here.
2. Let’s Go Hydro
Ideal for kids, families and the young at heart, Let’s Go Hydro is Belfast’s leading water sports and activity resort offering open water swimming, a giant inflatable aqua park, cable water sports and glamping pods.
For a blast from the past, Let’s Go Hydro is also hosting a drive-through cinema where social distancing comes as standard.
From kids movies to action thrillers and rom coms, the drive-through cinema makes for a perfect alternative date night or “night in” with friends.
Bookings should be made online here.
3. Street Art Walking Tour
It is hard to walk anywhere in Belfast City Centre without noticing the striking art on the walls designed by artists from across the world. Become a tourist for a day and take a tour with Seedhead Arts to learn the stories behind the murals and how Belfast became a blank canvas for artists to leave their mark.
Due to begin again on the 19th July, the gently paced tour begins at Commercial Court, beside the Duke of York, and lasts roughly two hours. For bookings, visit the website.
4. Cargo
Newly opened Cargo, located in Titanic Quarter (only five minutes from Belfast City Airport!), is home to Belfast’s biggest open air, licensed restaurant, complete with quirky teepees for you to relax in and a cracking view of the iconic Harland and Wolff cranes.
All bookings must be made online in advance. Visit: https://www.wearevertigo.com/cargo
5. Montalto Estate
The gardens at Montalto Estate, Ballynahinch, have now reopened, giving you the opportunity to unwind surrounded by history and nature. Bring the family for a picnic or shake off the lockdown cobwebs with a choice of walking trails, suitable for all ages and abilities.
Tickets are required for entry and can be purchased online here.
6. Climb the Mournes
Explore the great outdoors in the Mourne Mountains, an area of outstanding natural beauty and home to the highest mountain in NI, Slieve Donard. Camp sites are located nearby in Tullymore Forest, so pitch up a tent and make a weekend adventure out of it.
Entry to the Mournes is free and you can find more information on walking trails here.
7. Go golfing
NI’s passion for golf is legendary with approximately 100 courses to choose from across the country, two of which are ranked amongst the world’s best - Royal Portrush, which hosted the Open in 2019, and Royal County Down, ranked the best in the UK.
There are also plenty of crazy golf courses throughout NI for those who’s golf skills may be below ‘par’ but still want to have some fun on the fairway.
Find a full list of golf courses here.
8. St. George’s Market
Lived in NI your whole life but never experienced the famous St. George’s Market? You’re definitely missing out!
St. George’s Market opened again for business on 3rd July with safety measures in place to make sure you feel comfortable shopping and browsing. Visit on Friday for the Variety Market, Saturday for the Food and Craft Market, or Sunday for the Craft and Antique Market.
For more information, visit here.
9. Take in a TV Tour
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NI continues to establish itself a world-class filming destination, with hits such as Game of Thrones, Derry Girls, and Line of Duty being produced here.
Filming spots are located across the country, which means you’re always an easy drive away from exploring your favourite sets. Find our top recommendations here!
10. Titanic Belfast
Once voted the World’s Leading Tourist Attraction , Titanic Belfast is a must see attraction with activities for kids and parents alike. Learn about our shipbuilding history, hear stories from that fateful night in April 1912 and see real life artefacts recovered from the seabed.
Doors will open again on the 1st August, and tickets can be purchased here.
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