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Nothern Ireland Arts & Culture

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Nothern Ireland Cultural Attractions Regional Picks

While the troubles of the last century seemed to stunt the growth of arts and culture in Northern Ireland the truth is that it just became a little more hidden. The youth of the north took to the back streets, pubs and libraries to express themselves. Gaining knowledge and training their creativity. During the 1970s and 1980s street art, know as murals, began to spring up on the walls of Belfast and Derry. These usually portrayed strong political ideals and sensibilities painted with expert precision and detail. This time also saw glut of pop bands, usually of a punk persuasion, form and become successful in the region (The Undertones, Stiff Little Fingers and Ash being the more notable). Today Northern Ireland is blessed with a more peaceful existence and is thriving from the culture of its forefathers.

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Cultural Tourist Attractions

Literary points of interest.

For years Northern Ireland struggled to find its literary identity, or rather, it struggled to showcase its literary identity. Deemed not British enough to find a market in the U.K and not Irish enough to register south of the border, Northern Irish literature was for years caught up in a political quagmire that failed to reveal its true potential. Some of Northern Ireland's more notable authors include (Lewis Carroll-Alice's Adventures in Wonderland-1865) and Seamus Heaney (Winner of the 1995 Nobel Prize in Literature, one of four Irishmen to do so and the only one born outside of Dublin).

With Northern Ireland enjoying a more settled period over the past two decades and reclaiming more of a national identity, its literary works have become more celebrated than ever. Below are some of the major libraries of the north as well as a few interesting tours that you can take to learn more about its literary heroes.

C.S Lewis Trail Belfast

• A tour of Belfast focusing on the sights and place that inspired the young author C.S Lewis. His most memorable work, The Chronicles of Narnia, features heavily. There is also a chance to see his birth-home and St. Mark's Church, where his grandfather was rector.
• +44 (028) 9045 1900
• Find on Google Maps
• Belfast City
• Open Weekdays 9a.m to 5p.m.(Closed Weekends)

Belfast Central Library Belfast

• +44 (028) 9050 9150
• Royal Ave, Belfast City
• Open Weekdays 9a.m to 5.30p.m. Saturday 10a.m to 4.30p.m (Closed Sunday)

Cave Hill Belfast

• A massive hill overlooking the city of Belfast. It is the location where Jonathan Swift found inspiration for his most famous work, Gulliver's Travels. Easy to see once you reach the summit, stand as a giant looking down at the miniature city below.
• Newtownabbey, Belfast

Heaney County Tour Derry/Londonderry

• A family run guest house operated by people who know Seamus Heaney personally. They hosts for anyone who would like to find out more about Derry's literary son.
• +44 (028) 7930 1459
• laurel-villa.com
• Magherafelt, Londonderry

Derry Central Library Derry/Londonderry

• +44 (028) 7122 9990
• Foyle St, Londonderry
• Open Monday and Thursday 9a.m to 8p.m Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday to 5.30pm. saturday to 4.30p.m. (Closed Sunday)

Newcastle Library Down

• +44 (028) 4372 2710
• Newcastle, Co. Down
• Open Monday, Wednesday & Thursday 10a.m to 5p.m. Tuesday 1p.m to 8p.m. Friday & Saturday 10a.m to 4p.m. (Closed Sunday)

Art Galleries & Installations

Find your way through the history of Northern Ireland's art via its galleries and installations. Discover classic paintings, sculptures and contemporary works by Northern Irish and international artists.

FE McWilliam Gallery and Studio Armagh

• +44 28 4062 3322
• femcwilliam.com
• Banbridge, Armagh
• Open 10a.m to 5p.m. (Sunday 1p.m to 5p.m)

Gormleys Fine Art Belfast

• +44 28 9066 3313
• gormleys.ie
• Lisburn Rd, Belfast City
• Open 10a.m to 5.30p.m. (Closed Sunday)

Charles Gilmore Gallery Belfast

• +44 28 9031 1666
• charlesgilmore.com
• Donegall Quay, Belfast City
• Open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 10a.m to 5p.m. Friday 10a.m to 4p.m. Saturday 10a.m to 3p.m. (Closed Sunday)

Catalyst Arts Gallery Belfast

• +44 28 9031 3303
• College Court, Belfast City
• Open Tuesday to Saturday 11a.m to 5p.m. (Closed Sunday & Monday)

Wray James Belfast

• +44 28 9031 3013
• jameswray.ie
• James St, Belfast City
• Open Daily 11a.m to 5p.m.

Eakin Gallery Belfast

• +44 28 9066 8522
• eakingallery.co.uk
• Open 10a.m to 5p.m. (Closed Sunday)

Fenderesky Gallery Belfast

• +44 28 9023 5333
• fendereskygallery.com
• North St, Belfast City
• Open Noon to 5p.m. (Closed Sunday & Monday)

Dawn Crothers Artist Studio & Gallery Belfast

• +44 28 9076 1262
• dawncrothers.com
• Belmont Rd, Belfast City
• Open 10a.m to 5p.m. (Closed Sunday & Monday)

Ship Quay Gallery Derry

• +44 28 7136 7711
• Facebook page
• Shipquay St, Co. Derry/Londonderry
• +44 28 7130 8080
• derryvoid.com
• Patrick St, Co. Derry/Londonderry
• Open 11a.m to 5p.m. (Closed Sunday & Monday)

Centre for Contemporary Art Derry

• +44 28 7137 3538
• Artillery St, Co. Derry/Londonderry
• Open 12a.m to 6p.m. (Closed Sunday & Monday)

Music & Concert Venues

Having always been a form of escapism throughout its turbulent past, the music & concert venues of Northern Ireland continue to be as popular as ever during these times of peace. For the best selection of music venues, ranging from small Rock&Roll venues to grander classical music concert halls. Derry City is also a popular live music hub of the North.

The Old Courthouse Antrim

• +44 28 9442 8331
• theoldcourthousetheatre.com
• Market Square, Co. Antrim

Johnny B Goode's Antrim

• High St, Co. Antrim
• Open Saturday 3p.m to Midnight

The Belfast Empire Music Hall Belfast

• +44 28 9024 9276
• thebelfastempire.com
• Botanic Ave, Belfast

Limelight Belfast

• +44 28 9032 7007
• limelightbelfast.com
• Ormeau Ave, Belfast

Ulster Hall Belfast

• +44 28 9033 4455
• ulsterhall.co.uk
• Open from 10a.m to 5p.m. (Closed Sundays)

Waterfront Hall Belfast

• waterfront.co.uk
• Lanyon Place, Belfast

Oh Yeah Music Centre Belfast

• +44 28 9031 0845
• ohyeahbelfast.com
• Gordon St, Belfast
• Open Daily from 10a.m to 11p.m.

Voodoo Belfast

• +44 28 9027 8290
• voodoobelfast.com
• Fountain St, Belfast
• Open Noon to 2p.m. Monday & Sunday till 1a.m.

Mandela Hall Belfast

• mandelahall.com
• University Rd, Belfast

Odyssey Complex Belfast

• +44 28 9073 9074
• ssearenabelfast.com
• Queens Quay, Belfast

The Glassworks Londonderry

• +44 28 7126 4132
• culturlann.org
• Great James St, Londonderry
• Open Weekdays 8a.m to 5p.m. Saturday 9a.m to 4p.m. (Closed Sundays)

St Columb's Hall Londonderry

• Newmarket St, Londonderry

Millennium Forum Londonderry

• +44 28 7126 4455
• millenniumforum.co.uk

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Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

About Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

Adare is a small town in Co. Limerick, known for its quaint and colourful thatched cottages. Adare is considered to be one of Ireland's most beautiful towns so stop and take in the view. Don't forget your camera today - the perfect chance to capture the essence of old Ireland.

Explore Adare Village along the Wild Atlantic Way .

Black Taxi Tour Belfast

About Black Taxi Tour Belfast

Take a journey through this once troubled city. See the murals of the Loyalist Shankill Road & Nationalist Falls Road. The Troubles took their toll on the economic life of Belfast, but the past ten years of peace have returned much prosperity while the genuine friendliness of the city never left.

Blarney Woollen Mills

About Blarney Woollen Mills

Originally built in 1823, Blarney Woollen Mills was mainly used for the spinning and weaving of wool. After it closed in 1973, it reopened in 1975 — as an Irish heritage shop.

Visit their website...

Culloden Battlefield

About Culloden Battlefield

The Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre commemorates the last pitched battle fought on British soil, in April 1746. Learn more about the Jacobite intent to overthrow the House of Hanover and return the House of Stuart to the British throne.

Glenveagh Castle

About Glenveagh Castle

Located within Glenveagh National Park, Glenveagh Castle was built by Captain John George Adair between 1870 and 1873. Having made his fortune through land speculation in America, Adair return to Ireland and began large amounts of land in County Donegal. The castle was built in the Scottish Baronial style and is surrounded by a garden and commands stunning views of the nearby mountains, lakes, woodlands and valleys.

Highland Folk Museum

About Highland Folk Museum

About Highland Folk Museum is a museum and open-air attraction located in the Scottish Highlands. It is designed to showcase the domestic and working lives of the early highland people.

King John's Castle

About King John's Castle

Located alongside the River Shannon in County Limerick, on King's Island. Dating back to 922, to a time when Vikings were the inhabitants of the island (Thormodr Helgason, the Viking sea-king, built the first settlement here. The castle itself was built in 1200, under the instruction of King John of England.

About Moriarty's

Located close to the Killarney National Park, Moriarty's is an Authentic Irish Gift Store and Restaurant. Hand crafted Irish jewellery, Waterford Crystal and classic and modern tweed fashions and furnishings are all on offer at the gift store. The restaurant is an 85 seater offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Mount Congreve Gardens

About Mount Congreve Gardens

Mount Congreve Gardens. Located in Kilmeaden, County Waterford, Mount Congreve Gardens is an 18th century Georgian estate and mansion. It was designed by the same architect that created both of Waterford's cathedrals, John Roberts.

Mount Stewart House & Gardens

About Mount Stewart House & Gardens

Recently recognised as being one of the top 10 gardens in the world, Mount Stewart is a rich tapestry of planting plant life and stunning walking trails. The house dates back to the 19th century, and was the Irish seat of the Vane-Tempest-Stewart family.

Muckross House

About Muckross House

Located on the grounds of the expansive and idyllic Killarney National Park. Muckross House, and its 11,000-acre grounds, was donated to the Irish state in 1932.

Muckross House Traditional Farms

About Muckross House Traditional Farms

Located on the grounds of the picturesque Muckross House and its impeccable gardens. Take a step back in time and see the Irish farming lifestyle of the 1930s and '40s. A time when the horse was responsible for much of the labour and the weather was the be all and end all in terms of production.

The Quiet Man Museum

About The Quiet Man Museum

The Quiet Man Museum. A reproduction of the quaint thatched cottage from the John Wayne starring, John Ford directed movie of the same name. all costumes, artefacts and furnishings have been recreated in precise detail, to reflect the setting of the 1952 classic. Located in the picturesque village of Cong, County Mayo.

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Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

A Tour of The Street Art of Belfast

Last updated: June 12, 2022 . Written by Laurence Norah - 2 Comments

One of our favourite things we did when we were in Belfast was to take a tour of Belfast’s street art. The city is well known for its political murals, but in recent years there has been a growth in street art of a less political nature, meaning there is a wide variety of different types of art to take in.

In today’s post, I’m going to share some photos of Belfast’s street art, and then provide you with the information you need to take your own tour of the street art of Belfast – including all the different types of art you can see, and your options for finding them.

Street Art in Belfast

Note there is a lot of street art in Belfast, far more than I could fit into one post, or even find. These are just some of my favourite pieces, starting with the contemporary street art murals, the majority of which came about as part of various initiatives to promote art on the streets.

I really liked this piece, which reminded me of a similar piece of street art in Glasgow . This, it turns out, is because it’s by the same artist, the Australian street artist Sam Bates, also known as Smug .

There are a lot of different subjects covered on Belfasts walls. This one, we were told, must have been technically challenging due to all the fine lines – not easy with a spray can. I can believe that! It’s by artist Louis Masai .

Street art can definitely be thought provoking. This one is titled “The son of Protagaros”, and is by the street artist MTO .

Protagoras was an ancient Greek philosopher who it is thought did not believe in God. The dove in this image represents the dove of peace, killed by arrows marked with the crosses of the Knights of Malta and the Latin Cross. So you can make of that what you will.

This was one of my favourite pieces because I love dragons and space! It’s a space dragon, with every part of the dragon made up from a spaceship that featured in Star Wars. From the head, you can see Jabba the Hutt’s pleasure craft, and then as you work back you will identify more.

This one is by Bristol based street artist Andy Council  – Bristol of course being famous for it’s street art, as well as being the home of street artists Banksy. Check our our guide to the street art of Bristol for more.

This whimsical art piece is found on the shutters of a former fishing tackle shop which is now an art shop. As the shutters are rolled away when the shop is open, you’ll want to visit outside of opening hours to see this piece by street artist Elph .

This is another work of incredible detail that definitely warrants a close up look.

This was a new one on me – 3D street art! As you can see from the writing above the piece, “3D Glasses in Sunflower”.

Sunflower is the pub over the road, but in our case, our tour guide had 3D glasses we could use. I’ve never seen three dimensional street art, so this was pretty cool! This one is by the artist EMIC .

Another really awesome piece, this one by Christina Angelina , also known as Starfighter, which represents Pandora’s box. The three characters represent the same person, in various stages of opening and not opening the box. Very Schrödinger’s Cat .

Here’s a picture of some street art with a street artist! This is Tim, aka Verz , who was leading our tour of the street art in Belfast. He is also the artist behind this piece, and he specialises in art featuring dogs.

Originally Verz largely did images of dog breeds that were often negatively perceived by the public, with the idea of sharing the idea that perception is not always truth. This image, on the other hand, if of his own dog. Which is obviously, very cute!

This collection of street art is directly opposite the Duke of York pub, down an alleyway by the Dark Horse pub, and features a great many scenes of figures from Belfast history. Occasionally private events happen at these pubs, which means you might not be able to come all the way in to the courtyard.

So now it’s time to share a few of the political murals. You can also find these throughout the city. We saw most of them while on our Black Cab tour as many of the more political ones are outside the main tourist areas.

We’d definitely recommend seeing these as part of a tour, as the guide will be able to explain the history and significance of the murals as well as Belfast’s fractious history.

For those of you not aware, Northern Ireland is a part of the United Kingdom, and has been since 1921, when Ireland was partitioned up. Northern Ireland at the time was largely made up of unionists, who were predominantly of the Protestant faith, whilst southern Ireland, or the Republic of Ireland, was generally made up of nationalists, largely of the Catholic faith.

Of course, this split wasn’t perfectly even, with both sides living in each country. This division down lines of belief and national identity within Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland led to three decades of violence, generally known as the Troubles , which had a significant impact on life in Belfast. This conflict is deemed to have ended in 1998, with the signing of the Good Friday Agreement.

Obviously, two paragraphs is insufficient to summarise thirty years of trouble, and the full history of a country, but that will give you something to look up at least!

The summer of 69, other than being a classic song, was also the last summer that brought us the sixties “summer of love”, and other, free-spirited, peace loving vibes.

Belfast didn’t quite experience this type of revolution unfortunately, and this mural seeks to show what the summer of 69 might have been like in the city during the Troubles.

This is a mural in tribute to Bobby Sands. Bobby was a member of the paramilitary group the Irish Republican Army, also known as the IRA. He died in prison in 1981 whilst on a hunger strike.

Many of the political murals take up long stretches of street, depicting a wide range of scenes from Belfast’s history.

King William III, also know as William of Orange, or King Billy, was the King of England, Ireland and Scotland. He was a Protestant who fought the Catholic King of France, and the Orange Order movement is named for him.

To this day, every year the orange order marches in celebration of his victory at the Battle of the Boyne in 1690, when he defeated the deposed English King James II, and ensured the Protestant faith in Ireland continued to rise in strength.

How to See Street Art in Belfast

Of course, it’s not hard to walk around Belfast yourself and see street art, as there’s a lot of it on the sides of buildings here.

There are also regular street art festivals and events taking place in Belfast, meaning that there will always be new pieces to see, and that many of the pieces in this post will likely be replaced in time.

This website contains a fairly up to date map of the street art in Belfast, divided by type, which is a helpful resource.

If you want to get a better understanding of the art as well as the stories behind each piece, we can very much recommend that you take a street art tour.

The two tours that we can recommend are the street art walking tour with Seedhead arts , and the Black Cab Mural tour with Touring Around Belfast .

Both these tours are run by Belfast locals, but they have somewhat different foci.

The street art walking tour with Seedhead arts focuses on the recent, more contemporary street art, and shares information on some of the art works, as well as the artists behind the pieces. The tour is given by actual street artists, and is a great insight into the current street art scene.

The Black Cab Mural tour, led by blue badge guide Billy Scott, is both a tour of the city itself, and also an insight into Belfast’s troubled recent history, known as the The Troubles, part of which is shared through the political murals painted in parts of Belfast. These murals, which represent various political viewpoints, religious beliefs, events, and figures, show a different side of the city.

We’d argue that both tours are worth going on, although of course it’s up to you. The walking tour is currently a weekly event, held at midday on a Saturday, although other times can be arranged subject to availability.

The Black Cab mural tours are run on demand, just get in touch with Billy via his website to set that up. If Billy isn’t available (he’s a very popular tour guide), you might check out this tour instead.

Further Reading

Hopefully this post has helped inspire you to seek out the street art of Belfast on a future trip to the city! We’ve got a lot more content to come on Belfast which we’ll be linking to below, so do check back and don’t forget to subscribe to get updates on new content, which you can do here .

In the meantime, here’s some content to help you along with planning your Belfast trip.

• Our guide to how to spend 2 days in Belfast , which has a detailed itinerary as well as planning advice and guidance on where to stay and how to get around
• We also have a comprehensive guide to things to do in Belfast , to help you plan your trip even more
• Our guide to visiting the Dark Hedges , an excellent day trip from Belfast
• We also have a complete guide to the best day trips from Belfast .
• Our guides to spending 2 days in Dublin and 3 days in Dublin
• An overview of how much it costs to travel in the UK to help you with budget planning
• Our guide to spending 2 weeks in the UK , which includes time in Belfast
• A guide to driving in the UK , in case you choose to hire a car and do a road trip
• The official Visit Belfast website , which has lots of information to help you plan your visit
• If you are looking for a guidebook, we recommend the Lonely Planet guide to Ireland, the Rick Steves Northern Ireland guide  or the DK Eyewitness Ireland Travel Guide

And that’s it! Hopefully you found this post useful. As always, if you have any feedback or questions, do let us know in the comments below.

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There are 2 comments on this post

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Teniesha Collins says

16th October 2018 at 10:03 pm

Can’t wait to visit Europe!! Love these images so much, thanks for sharing!

Laurence Norah says

17th October 2018 at 7:25 pm

Thanks Teniesha!

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THE 10 BEST Northern Ireland Literary, Art & Music Tours

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See the City Hall in Belfast

Originally built to celebrate Belfast’s new status as a city, the City Hall is one of the most beloved   Belfast tourist attractions. We’ll show you around this grand monument to history, or you can relax on the grassy grounds, with the Belfast Wheel in the background.

Walk on the Derry City Walls

We’ll take you on a journey through history to the Derry City Walls, one of the most historically important   places to visit in Northern Ireland. Surrounding the old city center of Derry, the city walls are a 17th-century fortification with panoramic views of the region. Incredibly, most of the original structure is still standing.

Feel the Irish Spirit at St George's Market

Completed in 1896, St George’s Market is the last surviving Victorian market in Belfast and one of the oldest   Belfast attractions. There are markets every Friday and Sunday and you can explore local produce, secondhand treasures, traditional arts and crafts, Irish homewares, and live music in this beautiful building.

Explore the town of Donegal

With its wild mountains, sandy beaches and glittering lakes, Donegal is one of the most remarkable places in Europe. The scenic highlight of any Northern Ireland travel experience, we’ll take you through pretty Donegal Town, with a serene harbor, the 15th-century Donegal Abbey and the ancient Donegal Castle.

Admire 40,000 basalt columns at Giant's Causeway

Take a drive with Trafalgar up the gorgeous Antrim coastal road to the Giant’s Causeway, where you can see the natural spectacle of 40,000 interlocking basalt columns. It’s one of the most iconic things to do in Northern Ireland, and your trip will also ‘Make a Difference' by helping to preserve this natural wonder.

Our top 5 things to do in Northern Ireland

We show you the best things to do in Belfast and beyond, from the ancient Derry City Walls to the spectacular natural columns of the Giant’s Causeway.

Ulster Museum

Located in the Botanic Gardens in Belfast, the Ulster Museum is a vast display of fine art, botany, geology, culture and local and European history. It’s the largest museum in Northern Ireland with everything from dinosaur skeletons to an ancient Egyptian mummy.

The Titanic Belfast is an incredible museum, dedicated to telling the story of the Titanic, from her design and construction in Belfast in the early 1900s to her disastrous voyage. Located in the Belfast docklands, where the original Titanic was launched, you can explore over nine interactive galleries.

Downpatrick

Down County Museum

We’ll take you back through 9,000 years of history at the Down County Museum, a former prison now dedicated to documenting the history of Downpatrick. You can visit the original cells used to house prisoners in the early 1800s, and learn the legendary history of St Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland.

Best museums in Northern Ireland

Our  Belfast tours  take in the best museums and galleries in Northern Ireland. See an ancient Egyptian mummy at the Botanic gardens and discover the vivid history of the Titanic.

Ardglass potted herring

This classic Northern Irish dish consists of Ardglass herrings rolled in a dish with vinegar, spice berries, raw onions, salt and pepper. It’s baked until the top of the fish becomes crispy, then served with crusty bread and butter to mop up the tasty juices.

One of the most well-loved dishes in Northern Ireland, Ulster fry is a traditional cooked breakfast with griddle breads (potato bread and soda bread fried until golden), small pancakes, bacon, eggs, sausages, tomatoes and mushrooms, served with tea and toast.

Traditionally found in the north midlands such as Fermanagh and Donegal, Boxty is a Northern Irish potato pancake made with a blend of grated raw potatoes and cooked mashed potatoes with flour and buttermilk. Served with a smear of butter, this is a delicious favorite.

Best food in Northern Ireland

Our trips will let you in on the best places to try Northern Irish cuisine, filled with grilled bread, potato pancakes, bacon and sausages, and generous dollops of creamy butter.

What to pack for Northern Ireland

Water and windproof jacket

Northern Ireland is one of the wettest and windiest regions in Europe, with temperatures averaging just 15°C (59°F) in summer. Stay cosy with a sturdy jacket and warm layers.

A big appetite

With a hearty cuisine filled with delicious breads, meats, pancakes and potatoes in every form, you’ll need to bring your appetite for a tour of Northern Ireland.

Although the Republic of Ireland (the southern partition of Ireland) uses the Euro, Northern Ireland uses the Pound sterling, so you’ll need to change currencies at the border.

An adaptor plug

Voltage in Northern Ireland is 230V, and the sockets are of Type G, with standard British 3-pin plugs.

Northern Ireland is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in the world, and you’ll want to bring a camera to capture all of this wild beauty.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and reusable toiletry bottles.

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CONTEMPORARY ART OF NORTHERN IRELAND

ART ONLINE & AT EXHIBITIONS

Welcome to Gallery 545!

Art for you - art online, private viewings and art advisory. find out more about our art services . artworks -  explore our diverse selection of original artworks for all tastes and budgets.

Latisha Reihill, Without Form, painting, 41 x 61 x 3 cm £800

Patricia Kelly, Coloured Dots on Black Background, textile art, 10.5 x 15.5 cm (12.5 x 17.5 x 3 cm framed) £250

Ashley B. Holmes, Angel, painting, 30 x 41 cm £325

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About Gallery 545

54° North 5° West: Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Putting Northern Ireland’s talent on the art map

Original artworks online for all budgets

Curated exhibitions online and at venues

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You can browse Gallery 545's collections by selecting one of the filters below or selecting multiple filters in the artworks page. 

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GALLERY CLOSURES VISITOR NOTICE: Art Galleries 1-3 are temporarily closed. Please check the Exhibition pages within 'What's On' before your visit for more specific info. We're sorry for any inconvenience.

Art Gallery Tour

A guided tour of our Art Galleries, as part of European Heritage Open Days

Time: 14:45 to 15:30

For European Heritage Open Days, we're hosting a fascinating tour on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th September to explore our Art galleries, and discover how our collections came to be on display at the Ulster Museum. 

The Ulster Museum is home to Northern Ireland’s national collection, covering Art, History and Natural Sciences. It is a place to inspire wonder, encourage creativity and to understand the importance of our shared humanity through our past, present and future.

Experience the very best of the national collection in our art galleries with a special guided tour. 

Tours will take place on the following dates:

• Saturday 9th September: 14.45 to 15.30
• Sunday 10th September: 14.45 to 15.30

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Street Art in Belfast

Delve into Belfast's vibrant street art scene on a self-guided walking tour. We've rounded up some of the city's top pieces in our street art map and guide.

Each year, Belfast attracts a host of international artists who add to the ever-evolving canvas of our city’s streets. We’ve rounded up just a small selection of the street art Belfast has to offer. Discover them on a self-guided walking tour using our map below. Our streets are always changing, so while you’re exploring you might even come across new artworks!

Golden Hares of Rathlin Island

Annatomix, 2018 Castle Street

Annatomix’s beautiful geometric hare can be found just off Castle Street, at the entrance to Marquis Street. Though the Irish hare is one of Europe’s rarest animals, some of the largest colonies can be found in Northern Ireland and there’s a group on Rathlin Island, off the north coast of Antrim, with a distinct genetic variation – the ‘golden’ hare.

Keep Her Lit

ADW, 2016 Union Street

With a human heart fitted with a pressure clock set among pipes and chains, this unique piece by ADW has industrial themes, complemented by the electrical box included in the artwork.

In Your Face- Belfast Spring

Studio Gift, 2023 James Street South

This stunning mural on a former linen mill portrays a symbol of new beginnings. Just like the flax flowers from which linen is made, spring is often associated with a fresh start. Traditionally flax plants are given to newly weds to honor their new life together!

Aches, 2020 Kent Street

If you’re talking a stroll down Kent Street, don’t miss Aches 3D mural ‘Disruption’ above the Bingo hall! Captured is Stephen Considine from BipolarBear Wear- an organisation which sells gear to raise money for mental health charities.

Mikey- The Man with the Atom Tattoo

Voyder, 2023 North Street/ McKibben’s Court 

This piece of artwork captures Mikey- a close friend of Voyder’s who pushed him artistically to become the successful artist he is today. Mikey is pictured in a freight yard where the two of them used to paint train carriages. He has now become a talented tattoo artist!

Blurry Eyed

Dan Kitchener, 2016 Talbot Street

This mural depicting a soaked urban street was created freehand without the use of guides or stencils. Find it on Talbot Street in the Cathedral Quarter.

When You Weren't Looking

Kitsune Jolene, 2022 Queen Street

This stunning piece of artwork by Belgian artist Kitsune was nominated as one of the top pieces of street art in the world in 2022. This mural echoes the message that magic always comes your way when you are least expecting it.

R.O.A, 2023 Donegall Street 

Belgian artist R.O.A has painted this large squirrel as part of Hit the North 2023. R.O.A takes his inspiration from animals- particularly showcasing the lifecycle of life and death. Find this distinguished mural on the side of the Irish Times building on Donegall Street.

Still Water

Nomad Clan, 2017 Hill Street

Manchester-based Nomad Clan touch on Belfast’s industrial heritage in this piece, which shows a modern young woman face-to-face with a wolf, representing past tensions and an acknowledgment of past and present.

The Son of Protagoras

MTO, 2014 Talbot Street

This striking piece of art is named after the agnostic Greek philosopher ‘Protagoras’. After learning that there is still a large division between the protestant and catholic communities within Northern Ireland, MTO created this mural. The boy represents the son of peace and the arrows which have killed the dove are symbolic of the two conflicting religions.

The Duel of Belfast, Dance by Candlelight

Conor Harrington, 2012 Hill Street

This stunning piece on Hill Street in the Cathedral Quarter was painted by Irish artist Conor Harrington. It hints towards the colonial West, depicting two duelling men and an onlooker.

Star People

Rocket01, 2023 Kent Street

Take a walk down Kent Street to see this incredible design by Rocket01. The artist’s surreal and futuristic style of painting is truly impressive.

Nesting Time

Andrey Palval, 2023 Union Street

Aundrey Palval’s ‘Nesting Time’ portrays a little tern- typically a type of seabird- mothering a chicken. Palval’s artwork beautifully captures photorealistic images of birds and can be found across the globe. Find it on Kent Street just down from The Sunflower Pub.

Life Preserver

Shane Sutton, High Street

This piece by Shane Sutton demonstrates Belfast’s vulnerability to rising sea levels and the imminent threat of climate change. Shane designed this mural in partnership with Friends of Earth and Strange Spaces.

Smug, 2016 High Street

This stunning portrait can be found on the side of the Ulster Sports Club at the bottom of High Street. The three-story image of a chef with a lobster was created by Australian artist, Smug.

Let Me Unsee

Art of Asbestos, 2022 North Street

Don’t miss this eye catching piece created at Hit the North Street Art Festival 2022 – the mural represents a feeling of being overwhelmed by today’s technological world and the desire to switch off your eyes and process fewer things.

ADW, 2017 Dunbar Street

ADW’s iconic painting of a diver in an antique diving suit carrying a mermaid in his arms can be found on Dunbar Street.

Woman And Parrot

SANCHO, 2018 Gresham Street

Created by Columbian street artist Sancho Medina as part of the Hit the North 2018 festival, this colourful image of a woman and parrot stands over three storeys on Gresham Street. Sancho’s work is inspired by man’s close relationship with nature.

Spirit of Commerce

Irony, 2020 Pottinger’s Entry

Discover this incredible piece by Irony, which was part of the Belfast entries project, on Pottinger’s Entry.

The Acrobat

Alice Pasquini, 2018 Donegall Street

Alice Pasquini’s ‘The Acrobat’ is a tribute to Will Chamberlin, the director of Belfast Circus School who passed away in 2017. This piece portrays an acrobat in a state of repose in mid air, symbolizing Chamberlin’s impact across the community.

Various Pieces

BustArt (2022), Annatomix (2023) Kent Street

Both of these eye catching mural’s were painted as part of Hit the North Festival. Neo-pop artist, Bust, created ‘Various Pieces’ (on the left) as part of Hit the North 2022. Annatomix took inspiration from Bust’s colour palette at this year’s festival and created a cartoon style backdrop for their signature fox.

Street Art Map

Street Art Walking Tour

Belfast is a city with a unique tradition of murals and while there are lots of tours which showcase the murals of the old Belfast, this tour is something different. This tour is all about the new Belfast and the street art scene which is now flourishing.

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10 Of The Best Art Galleries In Belfast To Wander Around This Weekend

By Author Gillian Birch

Posted on Last updated: January 2, 2024

There are some excellent art galleries in Belfast for those of you looking to soak up a bit of culture during your visit

Northern Ireland’s capital is home to  bucket-loads  of culture, if you know where to look!

And while it’s the Belfast street art (not to be confused with the political murals ) that tends to steal the show at times, the city has plenty more to offer in the way of art.

From heavyweights, like The Mac, to sometimes overlooked Belfast art galleries, like The John Luke Gallery, there’s something to tickle most fancies, as you’ll discover below.

Table of Contents

Our favourite art galleries in Belfast

The first section of this guide is packed with our favourite Belfast art galleries. These are galleries that one of The Irish Road Trip Team have visited and loved!

Below, you’ll find everything from The Mac and Belfast Exposed Photography to the Golden Thread Gallery and more.

1. The MAC 

Courtesy of Tourism Northern Ireland via Ireland’s Content Pool

The MAC is arguably the best known of the many art galleries in Belfast, and you’ll find it  right in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter . Yes, it has over 40 visual art exhibitions if you’re looking for a traditional art gallery, but this award-winning venue has a lot more going on, all in the name of art!

Open daily 10-4pm, it offers theatre performances, dance, family workshops and it has a great café. The drama starts in the foyer where the Permanent Present sculpture by Mark Garry is the only permanent exhibit. 400 metal wires create a spectrum of colour that sets the tone for this contemporary arts venue.

2. Golden Thread Gallery

The Golden Thread gallery is a publicly funded contemporary art gallery worth hunting down on Great Patrick Street near Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter. Open Tuesday-Saturday from 11-5pm (4pm Saturdays), it’s free to visit and enjoy and there’s even a private car park.

Descriptive audio guides and guided tours off the gallery are offered free of charge but the gallery requires one week’s advance notice. They are a great way to learn more about the artists and their thought-provoking artworks.

Temporary exhibits are frequently changed and feature renowned artists as well as film and sculptural installations. This is one of the most popular Belfast art galleries for good reason.

3. Belfast Exposed Photography

Photo via Google Maps

Those who appreciate photography will enjoy a visit to Belfast Exposed . It’s a leading photography organisation in Northern Ireland promoting photography for everyone while telling a story and creating dialogue.

Belfast Exposed was founded by a team of local photographers in 1983 during The Troubles. It was a means of challenging media representation of Belfast and showed the city from a local working class perspective.

It now has four public galleries displaying photographic works by local and internationally renowned photographers. As well as maintaining an important archive, Belfast Exposed also has a “Futures” programme for emerging art photographers.

4. Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich

Also known as An Chultúrlann, the Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich is an Irish language cultural centre located on the Falls Road area of Belfast. It’s in the former  Broadway Presbyterian Church building which has had multiple uses as a cultural centre.

Raidió Fáilte once operated from the building, it was an Irish language school for a time, home of La Nua Irish newspaper and it has a resident theatre group. Drop in and enjoy the art gallery named after local artist Gerald Dillon.

There’s also a theatre, book shop, restaurant and conference rooms. If you’re looking for cultural places to visit in Belfast when it’s raining, get yourself here!

Often missed Belfast art galleries

Now that we have our favourite Belfast art galleries out of the way, it’s time to see what else the city has to offer.

Below, you’ll find everything from The Naughton Gallery at Queen’s and Queen Street Studios to Catalyst Arts Gallery and more.

1. The Naughton Gallery at Queen’s

Photo by Gena_BY (Shutterstock)

Part of Queens University on the first floor of the Lanyon Building, The Naughton Gallery is is an exciting visual arts space showcasing a rolling programme of contemporary exhibitions. Past artists include Adham Faramawy, Marie Jacotey, Aidan Koch and Locky Morris.

It was founded to display the University collection of artworks, sculptures, furniture and silver that were gifts, bequests and purchases.

It has since developed to display artworks on loan. With free admission, the Naughton Gallery is open 6 days a week. It also runs an extensive programme of talks, screenings and special events.

2. Queen Street Studios

Queen Street Studios , aka QSS, offers affordable studio space for emerging artists to work and display their creations. It offers in-house events including art workshops and guided tours as well as exhibitions and open days.

Located at The Arches Centre of Bloomfield Avenue, this gallery is supported by the N.I. Arts Council and has 37 studios which offer subsidized rents. The studios are open to the public Tuesday-Thursday 10am-5pm, or by appointment.

It’s a great atmosphere and offers the chance to see a diversity of artworks including some as works-in-progress.

3. Catalyst Arts Gallery

Another top artist-led gallery and project space, Catalyst Arts opened in 1993. Located at College Court, it’s open Tuesday- Saturday from 11-5pm. The arts space was the brainchild of a group of artists determined to make a mark in Northern Ireland’s arts scene, and that’s what they continue to do.

Promoting contemporary arts in many formats, it’s also the home of FIX Biennial, the longest running performing arts festival in Ireland.

Catalyst Arts manages an ever-changing programme of themes and events including the Belfast Photo Festival, drama, public art installations and video performances.

4. Gormleys Fine Art

Gormleys Fine Art has galleries in both Dublin (Frederick St) and Belfast (Lisburn Road). Founded in 1990, Gormleys specialises in international and Irish contemporary artworks so if you’re looking for a unique piece of art, this is a great place to come and browse.

The gallery also showcases works of well-known “blue chip” artists such as Banksy, Andy Warhol, Joan Miro and Damian Hirst. Gormleys also has a fine collection of sculpture including garden sculptural pieces. Best leave the plastic at home or you might be sorely tempted!

Art Museums in Belfast

So, there are some nice alternatives to the many art galleries in Belfast – museums! Now, while these are dedicated art museums, each is home to its share of artwork.

Below, you’ll discover what’s on offer at the  very  popular Ulster Museum and the often-overlooked Irish Linen Centre & Lisburn Museum.

1. The Ulster Museum

Photo via the Ulster Museum

Overlooking the Botanic Gardens , the Ulster Museum has a rich collection of artworks and treasures. With interactive exhibits, discovery zones and hands-on activities covering history and natural science, it’s an uplifting educational attraction for all the family.

Significant paintings include J.M.W.Turner’s Dawn of Christianity (1841), valuable artworks by Joshua Reynolds, Jack Butler Yeats and Sir John Lavery.

William Conor’s depictions of working class life in Belfast and the vibrant canvases of John Luke add to the pleasure ad there are works by contemporary artists including Rita Duffy and Willie Doherty.

2. Irish Linen Centre & Lisburn Museum

Photo by Brian Morrison via Ireland’s Content Pool

Touch on Ireland’s world-famous Irish Linen industry at this Irish Linen Centre and Lisburn Museum which is a 20-minute drive from the city. Located on Market Square in Lisburn, admission is free.

Housed in a 17th century Market House, this local history museum also has some interesting art exhibits. The ground floor assembly rooms once hosted social dances and John Wesley preached there. Follow the story of linen weaving and production seeing old looms and finished fashions.

The museum has regular displays and exhibitions on wider topics such as the Titanic and life in 17th century Lisburn. This is a great alternative to the Belfast art galleries above.

FAQs about the best art galleries in Belfast

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from what are the most unique art Galleries in Belfast to which are the biggest.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the best art galleries in Belfast?

The best Belfast art galleries are, in our opinion, are The MAC and the Golden Thread Gallery.

What Belfast art galleries are the biggest?

Size wise, The Mac is one of the biggest. It has over 40 visual art exhibitions on show and there are also events and performances that take place.

Are there any art museums in Belfast?

The Ulster Museum has a rich collection of artworks and treasures that are well worth checking out.

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Belfast city walking tour, lower ormeau road walking tour.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to really discover Belfast. Step back in time with Rory’s stories and learn about the rich history, the politics and the architecture as you take in the vibrant streets, the sights and sounds and what makes this city unique. This tour brings the city to life in an entertaining and informative journey starting at Belfast City Hall, taking in the many highlights and revealing many hidden gems along the way. Book Here!

Beginning at the Gas Works building, an iconic landmark with a rich history, the tour explores the murals, the architecture, the troubled past and fascinating people who have made this place their home. With all its current diversity of culture, the Ormeau Road offers so much for locals and visitors to discover, from its industrial past, through conflict to its regeneration into the thriving thoroughfare which it has now become. Book Here!

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From Belfast to the north coast, take a day to enjoy the stunning scenery and beautiful landscape en route: the historic castle at Carrickfergus; the quaint seaside cove villages of Carnlough and Cushendun nestling in the renowned Glens of Antrim; the majestic sight of Fair Head at Ballycastle and the jewel in Northern Ireland’s crown, the Giant’s Causeway. Bespoke tours and transport services available to suit all budgets. To book please contact Rory, details below.

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Street art tour - Belfast Forum

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Looking for a street art tour, but not necessarily the political murals as planning to do a black cab taxi tour. Suggestions appreciated please? Alternatively, is there a map I can follow as a self-guided tour?

2 replies to this topic

Google is your friend.

https://visitbelfast.com/article/virtual-street-art-tour/

This is great, thank you so much! 🥰

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The Perfect 3, 4 or 5 Days in Northern Ireland Itinerary

Last Updated on February 12, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning out a Northern Ireland itinerary is an excellent option for those who want to see more of this area than a simple day trip along the Causeway Coastal Route or a day or two exploring Belfast.

If you have 3, 4 or 5 days to dedicate to exploring Northern Ireland, you can see a lot of the country and experience some of the island of Ireland’s most incredible scenery and learn about the heartbreaking recent history.

If you’re planning on visiting Northern Ireland and are curious about what to see and do here, this route will help you map out up to five days of exploring this corner of the United Kingdom.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Northern Ireland?

Before jumping into this route, you’re likely wondering how many days to spend in Northern Ireland. This can really depend on what kind of trip you’re after, however, if you’re interested in spending time in the city along with seeing the iconic natural sites, then plan to spend at least 3 days in Northern Ireland.

With 3 days, you will have the time to explore Belfast and learn about that city while also having time to get to take in the basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway and some of the other highlights of the Antrim Coast.

However, if you have 4 days in Northern Ireland, you will have more time to take your time on the Causeway Coast and to spend time at attractions other than the Giant’s Causeway.

For those who want quite a holistic experience, then plan to spend 5 days. This will allow you to add on a visit to the city of Derry and learn about the history here.

Getting To & Around Northern Ireland

There are a range of options available for you when it comes to arriving in Northern Ireland. First and foremost, Belfast is home to its own international airport that connects it to a number of destinations within the UK, Europe and further afield.

Though flying into Belfast is certainly an option, you will find that there are far more flight options going into Dublin airport. Dublin is located only about a 2-hour drive from Belfast and there are also lots of stops along the way . The two cities are also well-connected by bus or train.

It’s worth noting that there is no hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland and it is likely you won’t even notice that you’ve crossed. However, if you are driving, keep in mind that speed limits in Northern Ireland are listed in miles per hour while they’re listed in kilometres per hour in the republic.

It’s also possible to arrive into Belfast via ferry from Liverpool in England and from the village of Cairnryan in Scotland.

Once in Northern Ireland, you’ll be wondering how to get around whilst there. In Belfast and Derry, you can certainly plan to get around on foot and via public transport – in fact, it’s probably easier than planning on driving.

Those venturing outside of the cities have a couple of options. The easiest and most convenient option to get around is by having your own vehicle as it will give you the flexibility to visit where you want when you want without having to reckon with bus timetables and routes. Doing a Northern Ireland road trip is easygoing, fun and incredibly scenic and generally the most recommended option.

And if you’ve decided that a Northern Ireland road trip itinerary is the choice for you, you can browse car hire options on Rentalcars.com to compare prices across major companies.

However, you can also get around regional Northern Ireland by bus and train, where applicable. For instance, there is a regional bus system connecting the sites along the coastline so it is possible to travel independently in this area even if you don’t drive.

3, 4 or 5 Days in Northern Ireland Itinerary

Without further ado, here is how to spend 3 to 5 days exploring Northern Ireland. This route is meant to be built upon each day so if you’re only seeing Northern Ireland in 3 days, then plan to spend the first 2 in Belfast before heading onto the Causeway Coast. And if you’re spending 4 days, it’s best to leave a visit to Derry for another time.

Day 1 – Belfast

Begin your time in Northern Ireland in the capital city of Belfast . Though this city has a bit of a dark reputation and something of a rough-around-the-edges vibe, it’s very much worth exploring and it has a lot to offer visitors – especially for those interested in learning more about its recent history.

On your first day in Belfast, make sure to learn as much about the history of the city as possible by embarking on a black cab tour . On these tours, you can learn about the Troubles from knowledgeable guides and also get a good feel for the geography of this divided city.

After your tour, head to Belfast City Hall and then visit the historic Crumlin Road Gaol before rounding out your day.

Where to Stay in Belfast

The Warren Belfast – Those looking for luxury will love this plush, centrally-located hotel in the heart of Belfast. They have several luxe rooms to choose from, great amenities, breakfast each morning and an unbeatable location in the Queen’s Quarter

Central Belfast Apartments: Citygate – If you’re looking for a self-catering option while visiting Belfast, then these apartments are the perfect choice. Centrally located, they have many fully-furnished flats available along with free parking for guests.

Vagabonds – Budget and solo travellers will love this cool, highly-rated hostel in Belfast. Offering both private rooms and dorms, there are also clean facilities and great common areas making it easy to meet other travellers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Belfast hotels!

Day 2 – Belfast

On day 2, it’s time to visit one of the Northern Irish capital’s top museums – the Titanic Belfast. The infamous ocean liner was actually constructed in Belfast before it embarked on its fateful 1912 journey across the Atlantic.

This iceberg-shaped museum will take you through a range of exhibits explaining all there is to know about the Titanic and the history surrounding both the construction of the ship itself and also some information about the crash and its repercussions. It’s truly a great experience to have while in Belfast. You can book tickets in advance here.

Spend the rest of your day in Belfast exploring some of the sites that you didn’t make it to the first day. For instance, you can grab a bit to eat at St George’s Market, get the views from the Victoria Square Dome or even head to CS Lewis Square to take in some statues dedicated to the late children’s author and theologian.

Day 3 – Causeway Coast

On day 3 of this trip, it’s time to head out of the city and make your way to the north of the country – to the iconic Causeway Coast. We highly recommend leaving Belfast as early as possible to make it to the Giant’s Causeway before the tour buses arrive – it takes about an hour to drive here from the capital.

If you don’t have a car, there are a number of guided tour options such as this full-day tour or this full-day tour that will pick you up from Belfast in the morning.

The Giant’s Causeway is the name for a collection of roughly 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns that were likely formed as part of an ancient volcanic eruption.

However, in Irish myth, it is said to have been formed when an Irish giant built a causeway in order to fight a Scottish giant — there are similar rock formations on the island of Staffa just off the Hebridean Isle of Mull in Scotland.

Note that the Causeway is free to enter, however, it is not free to park at the visitor’s centre or go inside unless you’ve paid for that. If you’re up for a bit of a (beautiful) walk, we recommend parking at the Salmon Rock Beach car park in the town of Portballintrae and walking to the Giant’s Causeway – that way you can visit entirely for free!

Plan to spend a couple of hours at the Giant’s Causeway as there is more here than just the rock formations. Take the time to walk on all of the trails and really take in the views of this gorgeous place. It’s a truly spectacular experience and an essential inclusion on any Northern Ireland road trip itinerary.

After visiting the Giant’s Causeway, you can take the time to take in some other sites on the Northern Ireland Coast. Head over to the town of Bushmills and tour the Bushmills distillery. You can also make your way over to some viewpoints and maybe even go on a few more walks.

If you’re only spending 3 days in Northern Ireland and want to maximise your time here, you can take in some of the other sites in this area, such as the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, Dunluce Castle and the Dark Hedges. However, if you are planning a 4- or 5-day itinerary, then you can take your time more at go at a slower pace.

End your day in the town of Portrush. This makes a great base in the area and the town itself is a popular seaside resort complete with its own amusement park and lovely beach. There are also plenty of pubs and restaurants to unwind in at the end of the day with a pint of Guinness and a good meal.

Where to Stay on the Causeway Coast

Anvershiel House – Located in the town of Portrush, this bed and breakfast is an excellent mid-range option for those exploring this part of Northern Ireland. They offer several clean and bright rooms, an excellent breakfast available in the mornings, and a location within walking distance of the beach and town centre.

Elephant Rock Hotel – Those looking for a luxury hotel while on the Causeway Coast will love this chic hotel in Portrush. Centrally located, they have a range of lovely rooms to choose from, an on-site restaurant and bar along with plenty of other great amenities.

Causeway Hotel – If you’d like to stay within a stone’s throw of the Giant’s Causeway and see it without the tour buses, then this hotel is a great option. Located adjacent to the visitor’s centre, booking a night here will also grant you free entry to the centre along with plenty of other perks.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Causeway Coast hotels!

Day 4 – Causeway Coast

Those who have more time to devote to the Causeway Coast will be energised to hit the road early and start exploring again.

Start your day by touring the lovely and striking Dunluce Castle. This ruined castle is perched on striking cliffs not far at all from the town of Portrush and it makes for an excellent place to visit.

Next, you can make your way over to the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. This place was used as a filming location for the HBO series Game of Thrones and it is now very popular amongst visitors – so make sure to book your tickets online in advance and also to arrive relatively early if you want to beat the crowds.

You can spend a fair amount of time hiking around here and it’s worth doing this on your second day so that you don’t feel rushed.

Of course, no visit to this area of Northern Ireland is complete without heading to the Dark Hedges. Again, this was used as a filming location for Game of Thrones and it is an incredibly popular tourist attraction. It’s simply a country laneway that is lined with intertwining trees.

Keep in mind that it is definitely a lot more beautiful in the late spring and summertime when there are leaves on the trees and it can seem a bit lacklustre in the winter to about mid-May.

Day 5 – Derry

If you’ve got five days to devote to your Northern Ireland road trip, then make sure not to miss the city of Derry (Londonderry). As Northern Ireland’s second-largest city, Derry can be overlooked by visitors here, however, it has a lot to offer visitors and can provide important cultural context.

Though the city has been popularised as a destination because of the sitcom Derry Girls (you can even tour filming locations ), it doesn’t get the same amount of attention as Belfast.

Derry is a small city and you can certainly take in the majority of the sites and points of interest within the confines of a day. Take the time to walk the city walls – Derry is, in fact, the only walled city in Ireland and this is a great thing to do here.

Of course, no visit to Derry is really complete without taking the time to learn about the city’s more recent history and what life was like during the Troubles. You can visit the Bloody Sunday memorial to learn more about the 1972 massacre and you can also opt to take a walking tour of the Bogside murals with a knowledgeable local guide.

Those who want to learn even more about the city’s history will also find the Free Derry Museum interesting.

Another top Derry attraction is the Peace Bridge. The pedestrianised bridge connects the majority Unionist east side of the city to the majority Republican west side of the city and was meant to be an emblem of bridging the gap of a centuries-long political divide.

Have More Time?

If you have more time after this Northern Ireland itinerary, why not continue on from Derry into the Republic and visit County Donegal ?

If you’re coming from Northern Ireland and only have a day, then driving the Inishowen 100 is an excellent way to explore this part of northwestern Ireland. However, you could easily spend more time exploring this area, as well.

You can reach the town of Muff in County Donegal in about 15 minutes or you can drive north and take the ferry across Lough Foyle to the town of Greencastle. The latter option would also give you the opportunity to make a stop at Mussenden Temple.

For those who want to tour more of the Emerald Isle, then consider heading further south and enjoying some of (or the entirety of) the Wild Atlantic Wa y. County Donegal is absolutely gorgeous, but other highlights include Benbulben in County Sligo, Achill Island in County Mayo, Connemara in County Galway and more.

When planning a trip to Northern Ireland, you may not realise just how much this small country has to offer visitors. From vibrant and historic cities to some of the most spectacular natural scenery there is to offer in this world, spending a few days exploring Northern Ireland is never a bad idea.

Are you planning to visit Northern Ireland? Have any questions about this route? Let us know in the comments!

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Dublin or Belfast: Which Irish City to Visit?

10-Day Ireland Itinerary: 3 Road Trip Routes

The Perfect 1, 2, or 3 Days in Belfast Itinerary

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hi, I enjoy reading your travel blogs and find them informative. Living in Northern Ireland I’d like to let you know that not only do we have an airport some 20 miles away from the city centre but there is also George Best Airport less than 2 miles from the City Centre and is great for those arriving to the city for its convenience. Also please note that St George’s market is only open from Friday to Sunday . I have seen many disappointed tourists arrive to the market on other days only to find it closed. Finally if you are travelling from Britain and have a National Trust membership this will allow free entry at the Causeway centre and other attractions – their website would provide more detail.

Thanks for those insights, Barbara!

Thank you so much Barbara Would not have thought about our N T membership. We are thinking about driving, any suggestions??

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