What type(s) of travellers would your recommendations for Northern Ireland suit?
My recommendations for Northern Ireland will suit backpackers and those who love nature and adventures!
How many days would you recommend for one to spend in Northern Ireland?
5 days 4 nights for a comfortable schedule!
What are the top things to do in Northern Ireland that you would recommend?
- Hike Glenariff
– One of the nine Glens of Antrim, and sometimes called “Queen of the Glens”
– Gorgeous views, with many trails to discover
– Great place for a picnic lunch
– Don’t miss the little waterfall called the “Horseshoe”!
– Free entry!
Address: Glenariffe Rd, Ballymena BT44 0QX, UK (View on Google Maps)
- Giant’s Causeway
– Possibly the most famous attraction in Northern Ireland
– Be fascinated by the almost-perfect hexagonal columns that form the causeway
– If you peer hard enough, you may see Scotland 😉
– Pre-purchase tickets from giantscausewaytickets.com for a £1.50 discount off the £11.50 price
Address: J44 Causeway Rd, Bushmills BT57 8SU, UK (View on Google Maps)
- Dunluce Castle
Dunluce Castle
– For the Game of Thrones fans, this was the filming location for the House Greyjoy.
– Medieval castle close to the Giant’s Causeway
Address: 87 Dunluce Rd, Bushmills BT57 8UY, UK (View on Google Maps)
- Coasteering
– Not for the faint hearted!
– Explore the north coast of Ireland in the most intimate way possible – by scrambling across the rocky coast on your hands and feet, and then jumping off the cliffs into the frigid waters of the Irish Sea (don’t worry, you’ll be warm and toasty in your winter wetsuits)
– Cliff jumps range from 2ft to 10ft, and you only have to jump if you want to
– £40 for 3 hours of pure adrenaline. Book at http://www.causewaycoasteering.com/
What are the top things to eat in Northern Ireland that you would recommend?
- Bushmills Distillery
– One of the oldest Whiskey distilleries in the world, established in 1608
– See how Irish Whiskey is made through their distillery tour (£8.00 per adult), and learn the difference between Irish Whiskey and Scottish Whisky
– Enjoy a hot toddy or a single malt in the cafe
Address: 2 Distillery Rd, Bushmills BT57 8XH, UK (View on Google Maps)
- Irish coffee
– Not-to-be-missed when you’re in Ireland!
– Coffee with a shot of whiskey. Yums.
– Available in most cafes and restaurants
The above food and sight recommendations for Northern Ireland are saved in a list here to help you plan your trip.
Any recommendations on where to stay in Northern Ireland?
Stay near Bushmills, where most of the attractions are. One hour drive from Belfast. Finn McCool’s Giant’s Causeway Hostel ($90/night for a double room with shared bathroom, or $30/night for a dorm bed). Free breakfast overlooking the lovely countryside.
When is a good time of the year to visit Northern Ireland?
Spring – Autumn
How should one get around in Northern Ireland?
Driving is the most convenient. Alternatively, the public bus system serves most attractions too. See http://www.translink.co.uk/ for timetables
What are the acceptable payment currencies and modes in Northern Ireland?
Cash and credit accepted in most places
Any other tips/things to be aware of in Northern Ireland?
If you drink, don’t drive! Don’t speed either, or you could be slapped with a fine. (These applies everywhere else actually!)
How should one stay connected to the internet in Northern Ireland?
Get a SIM card from Belfast airport. UK SIM cards would also work here.
Cost of Trip
Airfare – British Airways flies to Belfast via London. There are lots of budget airlines like EZJet and Ryanair too.
Accommodation – Finn McCool’s Giant’s Causeway Hostel ($90/night for a double room with shared bathroom, or $30/night for a dorm bed). Free breakfast overlooking the lovely countryside.
Food – £10-20 at cafes and restaurants
Transport – Rent a car from Belfast airport – Car rental was £50 for two days, starting from Belfast Airport. Driving is on the same side as in Singapore/UK, and quite easy to navigate with Googlemaps.
Tell us a bit about yourself
Full-time office drone, and part-time wanderer.
