Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is the smallest and least visited country in the UK, made up of 6 counties in the northeast of Ireland. Depending on your age and outlook, you might associate Northern Ireland with its proud shipbuilding industry, its turbulent politics or its many set locations featured in Game of Thrones. Regardless, Northern Ireland is now an area on the up thanks to a host of regeneration projects and inward investment.

The capital city of Belfast is the cultural and economic hub of the country. The world’s most famous ocean liner, RMS Titanic, was built here and there’s an excellent museum devoted to it, while the nearby Medieval monument of Dunluce Castle ruin in County Antrim makes for a popular daytrip. Northern Ireland has an esteemed golfing pedigree with several local world champions and many excellent courses. Other iconic landmarks include the Giant's Causeway and the Glens of Antrim.

Belfast

Belfast is best known to many around the world as the birthplace of the Titanic. Her story can be appreciated at the dockyards, whose Titanic Belfast takes visitors through the shipyard and to the bottom of the ocean using interactive galleries.

The capital has more to offer than just the legacy of the infamous passenger liner. Admire the 19th-century St George's Market, pick up a bargain at the Castle Court shopping centre or catch a show at the Grand Opera House. Afterwards, you can dive into one of the cosy bars to linger over a pint before heading to one of the city's hip eateries.

The best things to do in Belfast could include learning about shipbuilding, turbulent politics or checking out a vibrant city with great restaurants, tourist attractions, and nightlife. In truth, the capital of Northern Ireland retains all 3 of these alter egos in its charming streets and in the hearts and minds of the friendly locals.

One thing which is rather surprising to many visitors is that parts of the city are separated by large walls. These were erected back in the 1970s when the city was a very different place. Thankfully, these days Belfast is a thriving, multicultural city and this recent history is a fascinating addition to your trip.