Tourist Attractions in Northern Ireland

The most interesting and beautiful tourist sites in Northern Ireland

Photos, reviews, descriptions, and links to maps

About Northern Ireland

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

In addition to the ancient castles, which saturate many European countries, it is worth visiting places characteristic only for Ireland. Belfast is the city where the famous Titanic was built. Now on the site of the old shipyard there is a museum. The Bushmills Distillery, the first in the world to produce the famous Irish drink, is a must-visit.

Top-35 Tourist Attractions in Northern Ireland

Belfast City Hall

 4.6/5

1914 reviews

Located in Donegall Square in the city centre. The grand Victorian-style structure was built in 1906. The gleaming copper dome rises to a height of 53 metres. Beneath it is the Whispering Gallery. A word spoken even in a whisper can be heard perfectly against the opposite wall. Several types of marble were used to decorate the lobby and the grand staircase. Volumetric stained glass windows depict events from the life of the city.

Open time

Monday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Giant's Causeway

 4.7/5

24212 reviews

A natural monument formed of 40,000 columns of basalt. The tallest of them is 12 metres high. According to scientists, the natural monument was formed as a result of a volcanic eruption 50-60 million years ago. However, according to local legends, they are the remains of a bridge that was destroyed by the fleeing monster Goll. The Giant’s Causeway Columns is a UNESCO site and it is one of the most popular places for tourists.

Open time

Titanic Belfast

 4.5/5

31451 reviews

A museum complex based on the site of the shipyard where the infamous Titanic was built. The museum building is 38 metres high and is made in the shape of a ship. Inside there is an incredibly accurate replica of the Titanic’s grand staircase. You can tour the captain’s bridge and visit the engine room. The museum’s interactive exhibitions tell the story of the Titanic from its construction and launching to the wreck.

Open time

Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Crumlin Road Gaol Visitor Attraction and Conference Centre

 4.6/5

5369 reviews

It was built in 1846 and for 150 years it housed prisoners sentenced to death. The building is located opposite the court where the sentence was passed. There is a tunnel between the court and the prison for transporting criminals. Currently, the prison corridors and cells are available for visitors to see. It is said that visiting the prison requires strong nerves, as many prisoners have returned here as ghosts.

Open time

Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

National Trust - Carrick-a-Rede

 4.6/5

7601 reviews

A suspended rope bridge, permanently built in this place by the local fishermen to reach the small island during the salmon migration. Until 1970, there was only a handrail on one side of the bridge. One careless movement could cost a life. Later, the structure was improved and made safer. Today, the bridge is a popular tourist attraction, with about 500,000 people travelling across it a year.

Open time

Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

The Dark Hedges

 4.3/5

11665 reviews

The Beech Alley is 250 years old. It was planted by the Sturd family to decorate the motorway to their mansion. The crowns of the trees have been intertwined by the wind to form a tunnel. Experienced photographers advise to come here in cloudy weather or at sunset, so you can better appreciate the mystery and mystery of this place and make a great mystical shot.

Open time

Mussenden Temple

 4.7/5

1168 reviews

A small rotunda built on the edge of a precipitous rocky shore in 1875. The first owner of the pavilion used the space as a library. In order to store books carefully and prevent them from deteriorating due to humidity, a fire was lit in the basement and dry heat was supplied through hidden ducts. The room was called a temple because of its architecture, similar to the Italian temple of Vesta. Entrance to the temple is free for tourists.

Open time

Benone Beach

 4.8/5

1164 reviews

Popular among tourists and locals at any time of the year. The clean beach with good infrastructure was awarded the Blue Flag for a reason. The length of the beach is more than 10 kilometres. Smooth entrance to the water, soft and fine sand is especially appreciated by holidaymakers with small children. On the beach of Benone often hold various events. There are entertainment centres, children’s attractions, tennis courts and a golf course.

Open time

Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Belfast Castle

 4.5/5

5302 reviews

It was built in the 19th century on the side of a mountain. This gives tourists the opportunity to view the city of Belfast from a height of 120 metres. Originally the castle was located within the city limits, but after a fire in the XVIII century the Chichester dynasty decided to build the castle among the picturesque mountains. At the end of the 20th century the castle underwent a major reconstruction. Nowadays it is popular both for tourists and for holding festive events.

Open time

Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Dunluce Castle

 4.6/5

6638 reviews

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

Open time

Monday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM

The Derry Walls

 4.7/5

2309 reviews

Built around the historic city centre in the early 15th century. The walls are about 1 mile long and up to 10 metres thick. The medieval wall with bastions and ramparts is well preserved up to the present time. To pass beyond the walls in the Middle Ages gates were made – Ship, Bishop, Butcher, and Ferry gates. In the XIX century three more gates were added to them – the Castle Gate, the Arsenal Gate and the New Gate.

Open time

Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Botanic Gardens

 4.6/5

7687 reviews

It was opened in 1840 and covers an area of 11 hectares. The garden was designed by Charles Lanyon, an architect famous in Northern Ireland. A special feature of the park is the Palm House greenhouse. It has a unique zone with a tropical climate. A landmark is the lily of the valley, which bloomed after a 23-year wait. Popular performers, such as the world-famous band U-2, often perform on the territory of the botanical garden.

Open time

Monday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Thursday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Friday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Saturday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Sunday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Belfast Zoo

 4.4/5

4327 reviews

The location on the mountainside allows the zoo’s inhabitants to live in a unique and tranquil environment. There are 1400 animals of 120 different species in the zoo, and their number is increasing every year not only due to the acquisition of new inhabitants, but also due to breeding. There are about 90 newborn cubs of different species per year, which indicates good living conditions for the animals.

Open time

Monday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Ulster Museum

 4.7/5

3660 reviews

Located on the territory of the botanical garden. It covers 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. Its pride is the skeleton of Triceratops. There are expositions of archaeology and ethnography, as well as a large number of publications and manuscripts on the main theme of the museum.

Open time

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Ulster Folk Museum

 4.7/5

2002 reviews

Considered one of the most visited museums in Northern Ireland. It has been voted “museum of the year”. The Folklore Museum illustrates the rural way of life through the collection of old buildings, each with its own purpose – a farm, a stable, places for demonstrating folk crafts. The Transport Museum tells about the history and types of transport in the region. Steam locomotives, ships, carriages, bicycles and public transport are represented.

Open time

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Ulster American Folk Park

 4.8/5

588 reviews

An open-air museum whose expositions tell about the life of emigrants who voluntarily left or were deported to North America. It houses about 30 old buildings, some of them authentic structures of the XVIII century. There are recreated settler homes, a bishop’s house, a blacksmith shop, churches, and a school. In the days of popular American holidays here are organised festive events. Hundreds of people attend them.

Open time

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Old Bushmills Distillery

 4.6/5

779 reviews

The oldest distillery in Ireland and, by some accounts, the world. It is located in County Antrim. The distillery began making whisky in 1608. Bushmills Distillery is visited by over 100,000 people a year. Visitors can learn about the history of production and all its stages. There are guided tours with tasting of the drink. The distillery produces two types of whisky – blended whisky and single malt.

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Parliament Buildings

 0/5

The seat of the Northern Ireland Assembly and Executive. A separate building for local authorities appeared in 1932. Neoclassicism style is used in the architecture – simple forms, laconic facade without decorations, lack of decorations. The central facade of the strict 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.

Guildhall

 4.8/5

244 reviews

Located in the historical centre of the city near the City Walls. The neo-Gothic building was built in 1890 and was subsequently badly damaged by fire and then by a bomb blast during the Troubles. By now, the Town Hall has been restored and the interior has been significantly renovated. Among other things, the pride and jewellery of the Town Hall – the beautiful stained glass windows – has been replaced. A four-sided large clock has been installed on the high tower of the Town Hall.

Open time

Monday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Sunday: Closed

The Peace Bridge

 4.7/5

1610 reviews

The pedestrian bridge was opened in 2011. Its name is not accidental. The creation of the bridge symbolises peace between the Protestant and Catholic communities living on different sides of the river. The bridge stretches from St Columba’s Park to the Guildhall. It is 235 metres long and is made in an unusual curved shape. It provides a good view of the elevated part of the city, as well as the Protestant Cathedral, the Stock Exchange and the College.

Open time

Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Grand Opera House

 4.7/5

3857 reviews

An unusual for Europe example of architecture with oriental elements. Frank Mitcham designed the building. The theatre was built in the early XX century. In 2006 the internal premises were rebuilt for modern needs – the main stage and auditorium were expanded, a small stage was added, and a restaurant was equipped. The theatre stages musicals, comedy and drama plays, as well as various events.

Open time

Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: Closed

Queen's University Belfast

 4.5/5

694 reviews

In 1849, an educational institution called King’s College Belfast opened, which later gained the status of a university. It is housed in a building of classical English architecture designed by Charles Lanyon. The appearance of the building has remained largely unchanged since it was built. The university employs nearly 4,000 people, of whom more than 2,000 are research staff.

Open time

St Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast

 4.4/5

1384 reviews

Cathedral in the centre of the city of Belfast. The majestic building was completed in 1904. The architecture of the building combines Romanesque style and classical Irish motifs. During the war years the cathedral was badly damaged by bombings. Money for the restoration was collected by parishioners. Tourists will be interested in the beautiful stained glass windows of the cathedral and organ concerts. Divine services are held every day.

Open time

Monday: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday: Closed

St Columb's Cathedral

 4.5/5

253 reviews

It was opened in 1633. The initiative to build it 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 silver bowl were delivered to the cathedral as a gift from the London Irish community. The bowl has been 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 was finished only at the beginning of the XX century.

Open time

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Sunday: Closed

Inch Abbey

 4.7/5

833 reviews

The ruins of a monastery near the small town of Downpatrick. Only a small fragment of the walls of the XII century monastery church has survived. Earlier on the territory there were cells, refectories and workshops. In XVI century the monastery was abolished, and the buildings were destroyed over time. Excavations by archaeologists revealed that there were settlements of Celtic monks on this site even before the monastery.

Open time

Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Carrickfergus Castle

 4.4/5

4994 reviews

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

Open time

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

National Trust - Castle Ward

 4.6/5

2675 reviews

Built in the XVIII century on the shore of the lake. Its beauty and grandeur were appreciated by the creators of the popular TV series Game of Thrones. In the courtyard of the castle of Wadr, scenes were filmed, which according to the script took place in the castle of Winterfell. After that, the popularity of the castle with tourists increased even more. The architecture is an intricate blend of Gothic and Classicism. The castle’s 300 hectares of gardens with roses and tropical plants are laid out in Victorian style.

Open time

Enniskillen Castle Museums

 4.5/5

1398 reviews

The castle was built in the early 15th century. Its shape is a classic defence structure – a square fortress with towers in the corners. Several times it passed from the O’Donnell clan to the Maguire clan and back again. During sieges and military operations it was partially destroyed. Nowadays the castle houses a museum, the expositions of which are devoted to the history of the castle and the history of the royal regiments of the county.

Open time

Monday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: Closed

Scrabo Tower

 0/5

Erected on the hill of the same name in 1875 to the design of the famous architect Charles Lanyon. The purpose of the tower was to commemorate Charles Stewart, Marquis of Londonderry. The tower with a pointed spire at the top is built of grey stone. It is surrounded by a park with a grove of hazel trees and green hills. Tourists who climb the 122 steps of the staircase inside the tower can enjoy a wonderful view of the beautiful nature around.

Rathlin Island

 4.7/5

107 reviews

Located in the Irish Sea. The only village on the island can only be accessed by ferry, the water journey takes about 50 minutes. The village has a hotel, pub, café and camping site. Tourists are attracted to the island’s fascinating natural beauty. There are nesting grounds for hundreds of seabirds on the white high cliffs. Another popular excursion is to Bruce’s Cave. According to legend, it was visited by King Robert the Bruce in 1306.

Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail

 4.7/5

1297 reviews

A winding footpath that leads to the observation deck of a high mountain. The charming flat landscape at the beginning of the trail changes to a swamp. The grass changes from muddy green to purplish red. To pass through the bog, there is a boardwalk about 4 kilometres long. The last section of the path goes up steeply among boulders. From the top of the mountain you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Open time

Tollymore Forest Park

 4.8/5

4432 reviews

A forest park created in the 18th century. The nature of the park is picturesque and unique. It is located near the coast and the climate is mild. This made it possible to plant plants from all over the world, such as the Himalayan cedar. The park has two hills 250 metres high. The architect Thomas Wright built several small decorative structures in the park. Several scenes of the first series of Game of Thrones were filmed here.

Open time

Marble Arch Caves

 4.7/5

3029 reviews

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. A fascinating tour of the cave lasts about 1.5 hours. There are paths to the most spectacular places of the cave, and the underground river can be travelled by boat with an electric motor. The stalactites and stalagmites shine like precious stones under the rays of illumination.

Open time

Mourne Mountains

 4.9/5

123 reviews

A mountain granite ridge that attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world. It combines steep peaks and gentle slopes, rivers with pure clear water and the harsh Irish landscape. There are 28 peaks in the Mourne Mountains, the highest point is Mount Slieve Donard – 850 metres. Its summit offers a mesmerising view of the picturesque Morloch Bay. You can explore the nature of the mountains either by hiking or mountain biking.

Cave Hill Country Park

 4.8/5

543 reviews

The park is named after the peak located in it – “Cave Hill”. It is 368 metres high. 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 have nicknamed the hill “Napoleon’s nose”. With a good imagination and from a certain angle in the outline 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 – McArthur’s Fort.

Open time

Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours