Northern Ireland is a beautiful mix of Celtic Ireland and British culture. From cliffside castles to natural novelties, Northern Ireland is brimming with unique places to explore. With so many places to see and things to do, where should you start? Here are some ideas to make your top o’ the i’land trip the very tip of the top!
North of Norn Iron
There are plenty of places to visit along the northern coast. You may, for example, see Giant’s Causeway, a natural anomaly of hexagonal-shaped stones layered along the shoreline. The world-famous pillars formed nearly 60 million years ago when volcanic eruptions created layers of basalt that eventually cracked into the iconic shapes we see today.
Traditional Irish folklore gives the causeway a much more mystical origin. Legend has it that an Irish giant named Fionn mac Cumhaill created the causeway to cross the ocean and fight his Scottish rival, Benandonner. Benandonner ripped up the causeway, leaving only the pillars of stone we see today.
The historic ruins of Kinbane Castle top off the top of the island. A steep dirt path leads down to the coast and then continues up to the ruins. It ends on a narrow strip of land that offers a beautiful vantage point of the crashing waves and rising cliffs. The castle stood for nearly 500 years but has since fallen victim to the elements. Despite its ruined state, it stands as a thought-provoking piece of history against the scenery.
Some South Yoke
As you move down the island, you may need a break from coastal causeways and castles. And there’s no better way to refresh than with a stop at the Crosskeys Inn, one of the oldest pubs in Ireland, about 30 minutes west of Belfast. The pub dates back to 1654 and feels like a portal to the past; stone floors, newspaper clippings, and a traditional folk band set the mood to a candlelit Irish dinner.
When your stomach’s full and you’re ready for more adventure, head east to Belfast for an Irish city experience. A black taxi tour will take you through both the Catholic and Protestant sides of town, where you can learn about the Irish Troubles and even write a proclamation of peace on the dividing wall. When you’re done, head over to Titanic Belfast to learn about the history of the notorious Belfast-built ship. Additionally, the Belfast Botanic Gardens and Grand Opera House will stun you with their natural and architectural beauty.
To round off your trip, be sure to head to Corrigan Park and catch the Gaelic Games, which are traditional Irish sports that unite the entire island from Northern Ireland down to the Republic of Ireland. Combining elements of rugby, basketball, volleyball, and soccer, the Games are riveting and will get you in the true Irish spirit.
That’s the Craic
Northern Ireland is brimming with things to find and places to explore. You’re sure to never forget this trip, just as you’ll never forget the Irish sentiment éire go brách! (Ireland Forever!)
—Ashley Wilson