Things to do
Taxi tour
The black taxi "Troubles" tour around Belfast gets great reviews.
Titanic Belfast
A striking museum dedicated to the Titanic and the history of Belfast.
Botanic Gardens / Queens University
A nice park located in the "Queens Quarter", close to the Ulster Museum and Queens University.
Bars
The "Cathedral Quarter" is the cultural heart of the city and the place to go for drinks and food. The following bars are recommended:
- The Duke of York: Cosy, atmospheric pub.
- The Harp Bar: Great pub, frequently has live music.
- The Spaniard: Small, cosy pub in the centre of the Cathedral Quarter.
- The Merchant Hotel: Nicest hotel in Belfast; has multiple bars/restaurants.
Restaurants
- James Street: Good steak and fish; one of our favourites whenever we are home.
- Hadskis: Under the same ownership as James Street (above); relaxed, modern dining room.
- Deanes at Queens: High(er) end, first class local food.
- Deanes Deli: Sister restaurant of Deanes at Queens; more relaxed, city centre location.
- Coppi: Italian small plates.
Downpatrick
Downpatrick is where we grew up and went to school, and we are excited to welcome you here. It is where St. Patrick established the first church in Ireland and it is the home town of the band "Ash"...! If you have time, take a walk along the Quoile river or pop into the Down County Museum to get a flavour of Downpatrick's history. While the town has a certain charm... we would encourage you to explore the surrounding area and countryside to see its real beauty. In particular, we love the nearby coastline of Strangford lough and Newcastle, and the beautiful scenery and walks it has to offer.
Murlough beach
Walk from the outskirts of Dundrum, through Murlough Nature Reserve and on to Murlough Beach for a great view of the Mourne mountains.
Newcastle
Small coastal town at the foot of the Mourne mountains. Good location for a coastal walk (and there are lots of cafes where you can refuel). It is also home to the Royal County Down championship golf course.
Mourne mountains
The Mourne mountains provide some of the most spectacular scenery in Northern Ireland. From Donard Park in Newcastle, you can walk to the summit of Slieve Donard (the highest peak in N. Ireland) and back down again in approximately 3/4 hours; you will need to be appropriately dressed, and we would only recommend this if the weather is good...!
Castle Ward / Game of Thrones
National Trust property in well maintained grounds - perfect for a leisurely walk. Used extensively for filming of Game of Thrones. Located near Strangford.
Strangford
Small village on the shore of Strangford Lough. Take the short ferry across Strangford Lough to Portaferry. The Cuan in Strangford is recommended for food/drinks.
Ardglass
Small coastal town about 6.5 miles from Downpatrick. Home to the excellent Ardglass Golf Club. The Golf Club and Aldo's are recommended for food/drinks.