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Northern Ireland from Belfast.

Posted by (La Conner, WA, usa) on

We are going to Ireland on the 17th of this month. Plan to end in Belfast for a couple days - though one is a Monday. We'd like to get out of town and are thinking of just taking to bus to Derry and perhaps another interesting little town - or taking a day tour. (no car).

What are your recommendations?

I know that there is the Giant's Causeway - but coming from a state where the east side is comprised of tons of basal flows - I would need to be convinced. (Though perhaps eastern wa ought to take a lesson from Northern Ireland. )

Or should we just hunker down in Belfast and enjoy our last moment on the emerald isle.

We are foodies, culture seekers via museums and galleries - and birders.

Thanks!

Linda

Posted by
2261 posts

Do you have any other time in Belfast? If not, and if it was me, I'd probably elect to stay in Belfast-there is lots to see and it's a beautiful city. You could take a Black Taxi tour of some of The Troubles areas, do the Belfast City Hall Tour (free), there's the Titanic Museum, and some very good restaurants. For me I'd be slowing down at the end of the trip.

Is the bus to Derry direct, say under two hours? Personally I would rather be outdoors (finding birds!) than on a bus in my last days there.

Looks like there's a bird reserve at Belfast Lough:
http://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/find-a-reserve/reserves-a-z/reserves-by-name/b/belfastlough/index.aspx

Posted by
8682 posts

Giants Cause is very unique and looks nothing like Eastern Washington basal flows. Trust me, have seen booth.

Dave's recommendations for Belfast are spot on. I'd add a visit to the Gaol, St George's market and the botanical gardens. The Spainard pub is small and intimate. The Duke of York, large and fun.

Don't miss the seafood chowder and fresh mussels at Mourne's Seafood next to Kelly Cellars pub.
Worth every pound. ( remember its British pounds not Euros in NI)

On your way to NI, if driving, you could always tour Newgrange. Again, absolutely nothing like it on the planet. I found it fascinating.

Posted by
343 posts

I think Derry is my favorite place in Ireland/Northern Ireland, but....

With just a few days in Belfast, I'd spend a day in Belfast and a day on the Antrim Coast. Lots to do in both places!

Posted by
97 posts

Thanks, everyone, for the great tips. Copying them onto my notepad. Leaving soon!

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