It’s looking like Staycations are the new trend this summer… the perfect excuse to explore what’s on your doorstep, support local and discover the many things that Northern Ireland has to offer!
Please keep yourself and others safe by abiding by current social distancing guidelines when out and about.
Things to Tick off your Northern Ireland Bucket List
It’s looking like Staycations are the new trend this summer… the perfect excuse to explore what’s on your doorstep, support local and discover the many things that Northern Ireland has to offer!
Please keep yourself and others safe by abiding by current social distancing guidelines when out and about.
1. Gortin Glen Forest Park, Co Tryone
Follow the trail through Gortin Glen Forest Park where you can take in the views of the gateway to the Sperrin Mountains. There are even spots for a picnic or BBQ so come prepared with your packed lunch!
Image source: Gortin Glen Forest Park
2. Castlerock, Co Antrim
The North coast has so much to offer, it is worth taking a visit to Castlerock where you can spend the day walking Downhill beach or exploring Mussenden Temple, then finish up with a coffee at The Surf Shack – where you can also rent surfboards, wetsuits and paddleboards!
3. Kilbroney Forest Park, Co Down
Kilbroney Forest Park and Rostrevor Forest has several walking and driving routes bringing visitors to a series of spectacular views over Carlingford Lough and County Down’s most beautiful countryside. C.S Lewis even described this place as his version of Narnia!
4. Belfast Zoo, Co Antrim
It’s time to get back and see the beautiful wildlife at Belfast Zoo. If you happen to grab a dry or sunny day, Belfast Zoo is now open to the public and operating on a ticket-only basis so get yours today!
5. Rathlin Island, Co Antrim
Catch the ferry in Ballycastle and spend a full day exploring Rathlin Island. When you land, pay a visit to the Boathouse Visitor Centre where you can find out about the island’s attractions that include shipwrecks, seals, and puffins. Accommodation is available on the island or you could catch the last boat back and stay in one of the north coast’s many hotels, lodges, cottages or bed and breakfasts.
6. Cuilcagh Boardwalk, Co. Fermanagh
You have probably seen the Cuilcagh Boardwalk, also known as ‘Stairway to Heaven’, on your social channels pre COVID-19, and it still can be on your summer bucket list as it reopened to the public on 22nd June 2020.
7. Slieve Donard, Co.Down
If hiking is your thing, make sure to add climbing Slieve Donard to your list, the highest summit in Northern Ireland. On a clear day you will see views of the Isle of Man, Wicklow, Donegal, Wales and Scotland.
8. The Giant’s Causeway, Co.Antrim
You can be sure that the majority of NI bucket lists feature the Giant’s Causeway but there’s good reason why! A popular spot for tourists, but sometimes forgotten by locals, the Giant’s Causeway is well worth a visit this summer. Warm up with a visit to Mini Maegden after for their famous hot chocolates and grilled cheese toasties.
9. Lissan House, Co. Tyrone
Lissan House in Cookstown remains closed for tours, however, their gardens and walkways are open for everyone to explore. Take a socially distanced walk through the wood land, wildflower meadow or along the river, or enjoy a picnic in one of their stunning locations across the estate.
10. C.S Lewis Square, Co Antrim
C.S Lewis Square in East Belfast is a great place to spend a morning or afternoon. Explore statues based on The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe and finish up for coffee at the aptly named Lampost Café.
11. 17th Century City Walls, Derry/Londonderry
Built in 1613-1619, the Walls are the largest ancient monument in Northern Ireland and are the only remaining completely walled city in Ireland.
12. Kinbane Castle, Co Antrim
You won’t want to miss the Sunrise at Kinbane Castle along the coast of Ballycastle this summer. Check the sunrise times on a clear morning and get ready for some of the most beautiful views in Northern Ireland.
13. Gosford Park, Co Armagh
Gosford Park is the perfect location for a stroll where you might even get the chance to see some woodland animals and finish your day off with an outdoor BBQ or picnic.
14. Belfast City Centre, Co Antrim
If you’re taking a day out to Belfast this summer, there is loads you can cover in one day. Grab a coffee and cinnamon bun at Established in the cobbled streets of Cathedral Quarter, or visit St. George’s Market and taste the best of Belfast’s produce (please check their website for COVID-19 rules).
15. Marble Arch Caves, Co Fermanagh
From the 13th July you can book a guided tour of the fascinating Marble Arch Caves in Enniskillen which isn’t far if you’re already crossing Cuilcagh off your list! A historical day out for a group of friends or family this summer.
16. Mussenden Temple, Co Derry/Londonderry
Overlooking Downhill Beach, Mussenden Temple has already been a hot spot since it opened back up for summer and now is your chance to take in the views from a 120ft cliff top!
17. Glenariff Waterfalls, Co Antrim
You might have been planning on seeing Instagram worthy waterfalls abroad this summer, but who is to say you can’t find them in Northern Ireland? Explore the Glenariff Waterfalls Walk for picture-perfect scenes.
18. Mount Stewart, Co Down
Some parts of Mount Stewart have reopened for the public to enjoy this summer. You can safely book a slot to visit and enjoy the amazing gardens and trails.
19. Slieve Gullion Forest Park, Co Armagh
Explore the woodland trails of Slieve Gullion Forest Park with picturesque views of the Ring of Gullion, Mourne Mountains, Cooley Peninsula and Armagh Drumlins.
20. Portstewart Strand, Co Antrim
Don’t let the Northern Irish weather stop you from enjoying an ice cream along Portstewart Strand! Morelli’s Portstewart is open whatever the weather for a delicious cone of your favourite flavour.
21. Murlough Beach, Co Down
Murlough Beach is one of the top beaches in Northern Ireland and is a great addition to your staycation this summer. Newcastle is famous for its delicious fish and chips, so make sure to take a trip down the promenade before you settle at the beach.
We have added some of the most popular suggestions to the above list but thank you so much to everyone who contributed. We have included all suggestions below!
Tower Museum, Co Derry/Londonderry; Hillsborough Castle and Gardens; Co Down; Davagh Forest, Co Tyrone; Castlewellan, Co Down; Dunluce Castle, Co Antrim; The Lakes at Kesh, Co Fermanagh; Kilkeel, Co Down; Castle Archdale, Co Fermanagh; Beaghmore Stone Circles, Co Tyrone; Glenarm Castle, Co Antrim; Silent Valley, Co Down; The Gobbins, Co Antrim; Peace Bridge, Co Derry/Londonderry; The Titanic Museum, Co Antrim; Blackhead Path, Co Antrim
Please remember to follow social distancing guidelines when you are out and about to keep yourself and others safe.
Where is on your Northern Ireland Bucket list? Let us know using the hashtag #SmarterLiving on our Facebook and Twitter pages.