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    Tourist Attractions in Northern Ireland

    The most interesting and beautiful tourist attractions in Northern Ireland. Photos and a brief description.

    About Northern Ireland

    A corner of the British Isles with harsh but beautiful landscapes. The cultural and natural attractions of Northern Ireland attract many tourists, and unusual, mystical places receive a lot of attention. The natural monument “The Road of Giants” has many ancient legends, and ghosts, the souls of prisoners who died many years ago, walk along the corridors of the Crumlin Road prison.

    In addition to the ancient castles, which are saturated with many European countries, it is worth visiting places characteristic only for Ireland. Belfast is the city where the famous Titanic was built. Now there is a museum on the site of the old shipyard. It is definitely worth visiting the Bushmills distillery, the world’s first enterprise where the famous Irish drink was produced.

    Top Tourist Attractions in Northern Ireland

    Belfast Town Hall

    It is located on Donegall Square in the city center. The grandiose structure in the Victorian style was built in 1906. The shiny copper dome rises to a height of 53 meters. Below it is a Whispering Gallery. The word spoken even in a whisper is perfectly audible against the opposite wall. Several types of marble were used to decorate the lobby and the grand staircase. The three-dimensional stained-glass windows depict events from the life of the city.

    Belfast Town Hall
    The Road of Giants

    The Road of Giants

    A natural monument formed of 40,000 basalt columns. The highest of them is 12 meters high. According to scientists, the natural monument was formed as a result of volcanic eruptions 50-60 million years ago. However, according to local legends, these are the remains of the bridge, which was destroyed by the fleeing monster Goll. The pillars of the Road of Giants are an object from the UNESCO list and this is one of the most popular places among tourists.

    Titanic Belfast

    A museum complex based on the site of the shipyard where the infamous Titanic was built. The museum building is 38 meters high and is made in the shape of a ship. Inside is an incredibly accurate replica of the Titanic's grand staircase. You can explore the bridge and visit the engine room. Interactive exhibitions of the museum tell the story of the Titanic – from the moment of construction and launching to the wreck.

    Titanic Belfast
    Crumlin Road Prison (Belfast)

    Crumlin Road Prison (Belfast)

    It was built in 1846 and for 150 years it housed prisoners sentenced to death. The building is located opposite the court, where the verdict was pronounced. A tunnel has been laid between the court and the prison to transport criminals. Currently, the corridors of the prison and the cells are available for inspection by visitors. They say that visiting a prison requires strong nerves, because many prisoners have returned here in the form of ghosts.

    Carrick-a-reed-Ropybridge

    A suspended rope bridge was constantly built in this place by local fishermen to get to a small island during the salmon migration period. Until 1970, the handrail at the bridge was only on one side. One careless move could cost a life. Later, the design was improved, made it safer. Today, the bridge is a popular tourist attraction, about 500,000 people pass through it every year.

    Carrick-a-reed-Ropybridge
    Dark Alley

    Dark Alley

    The avenue of beeches is 250 years old. She was dropped off by a family of Stewards to decorate the driveway to her mansion. The crowns of the trees during this time, under the influence of the wind, intertwined with each other, forming a tunnel. Experienced photographers advise you to come here in cloudy weather or at sunset – this way you can better appreciate all the mystery and mystery of this place and make a magnificent mystical frame.

    Massenden Temple

    A small rotunda built on the edge of a steep rocky shore in 1875. The first owner of the pavilion used the room as a library. For careful storage of books and to prevent their damage from humidity, a fire was kindled in the basement and dry heat was supplied through hidden air ducts. The room was called a temple because of its architecture, similar to the Italian temple of Vesta. The entrance to the temple is free for tourists.

    Massenden Temple
    Benoni Beach

    Benoni Beach

    It is popular among tourists and locals at any time of the year. A clean beach with good infrastructure did not get the Blue Flag for nothing. The length of the beach is more than 10 km. Smooth entry into the water, soft and fine sand is especially appreciated by vacationers with young children. Various events are often held on Benone Beach. There are entertainment complexes, children's attractions, tennis courts and a golf course.

    Belfast Castle

    Built in the XIX century on the mountainside. This gives tourists the opportunity to explore the city of Belfast from a height of 120 meters. Initially, the castle was located within the city, but after a fire in the XVIII century, the Chichester dynasty decided to build a castle among the picturesque mountains. At the end of the XX century, the castle underwent a major reconstruction. Now it is popular both just for attractionseeing by tourists and for holding special events in it.

    Belfast Castle
    Dunluce Castle (Portrush)

    Dunluce Castle (Portrush)

    The ruins of a medieval castle are located a few kilometers from the town of Potash. The castle was built on a basalt rock 30 meters high. Most of the monument of historical architecture was erected in the XVI-XVII centuries. There is an assumption that the two towers of the castle were erected earlier – in the XIV century. There are many tragic legends about the building, and the Led Zeppelin group used a photo of the castle in the design of the cover of their album.

    Derry City Walls

    Built around the historical center of the city at the beginning of the XV century. The length of the walls is about 1 mile, the thickness reaches 10 meters. The medieval wall with bastions and ramparts has been well preserved to this day. In the Middle Ages, gates were made to pass through the walls – Ship gates, Bishop gates, Butcher gates, and Ferry gates. In the XIX century, three more gates were added to them – Castle, Arsenal and New Gates.

    Derry City Walls
    Belfast Botanic Gardens

    Belfast Botanic Gardens

    It was opened in 1840 and covers an area of 11 hectares. The garden project was done by the famous architect Charles Lanyon in Northern Ireland. A special feature of the park is the greenhouse "Palm House". It has a unique zone with a tropical climate. The attraction is a lily that bloomed after a 23-year wait. Popular performers often perform on the territory of the botanical garden, for example, the world-famous group U-2.

    Belfast Zoo

    The location on the mountainside makes it possible for the zoo's inhabitants to live in unique and peaceful conditions. There are 1,400 animals of 120 different species in the zoo, and their number increases annually not only due to the acquisition of new inhabitants, but also due to the receipt of offspring. About 90 newborn cubs of different species appear a year, which indicates good living conditions for animals.

    Belfast Zoo
    Ulster Museum (Belfast)

    Ulster Museum (Belfast)

    Located on the territory of the botanical garden. It occupies an area of 8000 m2. One of the largest museums in Ireland. The theme of the museum is the natural history of Ireland. The impressive zoological collection of exhibits consists of mammals, birds and insects. Her pride is the triceratops skeleton. There are expositions of archeology and ethnography, as well as a large number of publications and manuscripts on the main theme of the museum.

    Ulster Folklore and Transport Museum

    It is considered one of the most visited museums in Northern Ireland. He received the title of "Museum of the year". The folklore museum clearly shows the rural way of life – old buildings are collected, each of which has its own purpose – a farm, a stable, places to demonstrate folk crafts. The Museum of Transport tells about the history and modes of transport of the region. Steam locomotives, ships, carriages, bicycles and public transport are presented.

    Ulster Folklore and Transport Museum
    Ulster-American Folklore Park

    Ulster-American Folklore Park

    An open-air museum, the expositions of which tell about the life of emigrants who voluntarily left or were sent to North America. It houses about 30 ancient buildings, some of them authentic buildings of the XVIII century. There are recreated houses of immigrants, a bishop's house, a blacksmith shop, churches, a school. On the days of popular holidays in America, festive events are organized here. They are visited by hundreds of people.

    Bushmills Distillery

    The oldest distillery in Ireland and, according to some sources, in the whole world. Located in County Antrim. Whiskey production began here in 1608. The Bushmills Distillery is visited by more than 100,000 people a year. Visitors can get acquainted with the history of production and all its stages. Excursions with tasting of the drink are conducted for them. The distillery produces two varieties – blended whiskey and single malt.

    Bushmills Distillery
    Stormont Parliament Building

    Stormont Parliament Building

    The seat of the Assembly and Executive of Northern Ireland. A separate building for local authorities appeared in 1932. Neoclassicism style is used in architecture – simple forms, laconic facade without decorations, lack of decor. The central facade of the austere building is decorated only with columns. A monument to the famous politician Edward Carson was erected near the building in the year of its opening.

    Jerry's Town Hall

    It is located in the historical center of the city near the City walls. The Neo-Gothic building was built in 1890, it was subsequently severely damaged by fire, and then by a bomb explosion during the "Troubles". To date, the Town Hall has been restored, and the interior has been significantly updated. In particular, the pride and decoration of the Town Hall were replaced – beautiful stained glass windows. A four-sided large clock is installed on the high tower of the Town Hall.

    Jerry's Town Hall
    Bridge of Peace (Derry)

    Bridge of Peace (Derry)

    The pedestrian bridge was opened in 2011. Its name is not accidental. The creation of the bridge symbolizes peace between the Protestant and Catholic communities living on different banks of the river. The bridge stretches from St. Columba's Park to the Guildhall. It is 235 meters long and is made in an unusual curved shape. From it you can clearly see part of the city, located on a hill, as well as the buildings of the Protestant cathedral, the stock exchange and the college.

    Grand Opera House (Belfast)

    An unusual example of architecture with oriental elements for Europe. The project of the building was done by Frank Mitcham. The theater was built at the beginning of the XX century. In 2006, the interior was rebuilt to meet modern needs – the main stage and the auditorium were expanded, a small stage was added, and a restaurant was equipped. Musicals, comedy and drama performances are staged on the stage of the theater, as well as various events are held.

    Grand Opera House (Belfast)
    Queens University (Belfast)

    Queens University (Belfast)

    In 1849, an educational institution was opened with the name "King's College Belfast", which later received the status of a university. It is located in a building of classical English architecture designed by Charles Lanion. The appearance of the building has remained virtually unchanged since its construction. The university employs almost 4,000 people, of which more than 2,000 are researchers.

    St. Anne's Cathedral (Belfast)

    The cathedral in the city center of Belfast. The construction of the majestic building was completed in 1904. The architecture of the building combines Romanesque style and classic Irish motifs. During the war years, the cathedral was severely damaged by bombing. Parishioners collected money for restoration. Tourists will be interested in the beautiful stained glass windows of the cathedral and organ concerts. Divine services are held every day.

    St. Anne's Cathedral (Belfast)
    St. Columba's Cathedral (Jerry)

    St. Columba's Cathedral (Jerry)

    It was opened in 1633. The construction initiative came from King James I, who decided that in the new county of Londonderry, the first building to be built should be a cathedral. A tray and a silver bowl were delivered to the cathedral as a gift from the London Irish community. The chalice is used in the cathedral to the present day. The style of construction is Gothic. In 1776, a large-scale reconstruction of the cathedral began, which ended only at the beginning of the XX century.

    Inch Abbey (Downpatrick)

    Ruins of a monastery near the small town of Downpatrick. From the walls of the monastery church of the XII century, only a small fragment has now been preserved. Previously, there were cells, refectories, workshops on the territory. In the XVI century, the monastery was abolished, and the buildings eventually collapsed. Excavations by archaeologists have discovered that settlements of Celtic monks were located on this site even before the monastery.

    Inch Abbey (Downpatrick)
    Carrickfergus Castle

    Carrickfergus Castle

    One of the best preserved castles in Europe. It was built in 1177 on the top of a hill and is surrounded by the sea and rocks. This arrangement made it almost impregnable. The spring located in the castle helped to survive long sieges. The main tower of the castle consists of four floors. You can climb up the narrow spiral staircase. The castle has been restored several times and is currently popular with tourists.

    Castle Ward

    Built in the XVIII century on the shore of the lake. Its beauty and greatness were appreciated by the creators of the popular TV series "Game of Thrones". Scenes were filmed in the courtyard of the castle of Uadr, which according to the script took place in the castle of Winterfell. After that, the popularity of the castle among tourists increased even more. The architecture fancifully combines Gothic and classicism. 300 hectares of castle gardens with roses and tropical plants are laid out in the Victorian style.

    Castle Ward
    Enniskillen Castle

    Enniskillen Castle

    The castle was built at the beginning of the XV century. Its shape is a classic defensive structure – a square fortress with towers in the corners. Passed from the hands of the O'Donnell clan to the hands of the Maguire clan and back several times. During the sieges and military operations, it was partially destroyed. Currently, the castle houses a museum, the expositions of which are devoted to the history of the castle, as well as the history of the royal regiments of the district.

    Scrubo Tower (Newtownards)

    It was erected on the hill of the same name in 1875 by the famous architect Charles Lanyon. The purpose of the construction of the tower is to perpetuate the memory of the Marquess of Londonderry, Charles Steward. The tower with a sharp spire at the top is built of gray stone. It is surrounded by a park with a grove of hazel trees and green hills. Tourists who will overcome the 122 steps of the stairs inside the tower will be able to enjoy a wonderful view of the picturesque nature around.

    Scrubo Tower (Newtownards)
    Rathlin Island

    Rathlin Island

    It is located in the Irish Sea. Access to the island's only village is possible only by ferry, the water trip will take about 50 minutes. The village has a hotel, a pub, a cafe and a camping area. Tourists are attracted to the island by the amazing natural beauty. Hundreds of seabirds nest on the white high rocks. Another popular excursion is to the Bruce Cave. According to legend, in 1306 it was visited by King Robert the Bruce.

    Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail

    A pedestrian winding path that leads to the observation deck of a high mountain. The charming flat landscape at the beginning of the journey is replaced by a swamp. The shades of grass on it change from cloudy green to purple-red. For passage through the swamp, a flooring of boards about 4 kilometers long is laid. The last leg of the way goes up a steep rise among boulders. From the top of the mountain there are breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

    Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail
    Tollymore Forest Park

    Tollymore Forest Park

    A forest park created in the XVIII century. The nature of the park is picturesque and unique. It is located near the coast, the climate is mild. This allowed plants from all over the world to be planted here, for example, Himalayan cedar. There are two hills in the park with a height of 250 meters. Architect Thomas Wright built several small decorative structures in the park. Several scenes of the first series of the series "Game of Thrones" were filmed here.

    Marble Arch Caves

    The name means "marble arches" – because of the marble-like karst formations. The caves are about 1 million years old. They are a popular tourist attraction. An exciting tour of the cave lasts about 1.5 hours. Paths are laid to the most spectacular places of the cave, and you can navigate along the underground river by boat with an electric motor. Under the illumination rays, stalactites and stalagmites shine like precious stones.

    Marble Arch Caves
    The Morne Mountains

    The Morne Mountains

    A granite mountain range, which attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world. It combines steep peaks and gentle slopes, rivers with clear clear water and a harsh Irish landscape. There are 28 peaks in the Morne Mountains, the highest point is Slieve Donard Mountain – 850 meters. From its top there is a fascinating view of the picturesque Morloch Bay. You can explore the nature of the mountains both on foot and during a mountain bike ride.

    Cave Hill Park (Belfast)

    The park is named after the peak located in it – "Cave Hill". Its height is 368 meters. From the top of the hill you can see the whole city of Belfast, and in clear weather you can see a piece of Scotland. Locals nicknamed the hill "Napoleon's nose". With a good imagination and from a certain angle in the outlines of the hill, you can find a resemblance to the nose of the emperor. At the top of the hill there is an Iron Age monument – Fort MakArta.

    Cave Hill Park (Belfast)