Northern Ireland is one of the four nations that comprise the UK and also one of the top destinations for travelers hoping to explore a mix of both charming small villages and cosmopolitan cities with the very best in dining, theater, museums, and historical sites. Some of the biggest draws of Northern Ireland are the real-world Game of Thrones locations, World Heritage sites, and the actual spot the Titanic set out on its infamous voyage. Let’s dive into the ten things you must do when planning luxury UK travel to Northern Ireland.
Explore Belfast
Belfast is chock-full of seafaring history and historical sites. Plan a walk along the Maritime Mile to explore key attractions on both sides of the River Lagan. This historic trail will take you through dry and wet docks, the Salmon of Knowledge (known locally as “the big fish”), the SS Nomadic, Titanic Belfast, the Great Light, and Thompson Dock where the RMS Titanic was fitted out.
Belfast is also home to the Rayanne House featuring a Titanic Menu event with a nine-course dinner served in a period dining room. Don’t forget to visit the home of football legend George Best, which has been restored to how it would have looked in the 1950s with items of memorabilia from his childhood and youth.
Visit Real-Life Westeros Locations
Northern Ireland is also a mecca for Game of Thrones fans with real-life Westeros locations such as Castle Ward Estate (Winterfell), Tollymore Forest Park (the Haunted Forest), Cushendun Caves (Stormlands Cove), Dark Hedges (The Kingsroad), Downhill Beach and Mussenden Temple (Dragonstone locations), and Pollnagollum Cave (the fictional Hollow Hill secret hideout). There are also plenty of immersive experiences and tours for fans.
Stargaze & Marvel at Nature’s Wonders
Don’t forget to soak in the incredible recreational opportunities Northern Ireland has to offer. Popular nature-centric experiences include:
- Finn Lough – A resort where you can stay in a secluded, luxurious forest bubble-dome and watch the starry night skies up above.
- OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory at Davagh Forest – With one of the ‘darkest skies’ in Ireland, you will get the perfect crystal clear view of star constellations and you may even be able to catch the Northern Lights aurora borealis phenomenon.
- Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark – This Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark features underground rivers, waterfalls, winding passages, lofty chambers, and above-ground flora and fauna.
- The Gobbins Cliff Path at Islandmagee – Walk the breathtaking cliff-face pathway featuring suspension bridges, caves, steps, and tunnels.
Stand on the Boulders Built by Irish Giants
The Giant’s Causeway is a must-visit and the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland. This natural wonder features a set of 60-million-year-old rock formations that jut out into the Atlantic. Legend has it they were built by an Irish Giant to meet a challenge to a fight set by a Scottish giant. Whether you believe the myth or not, strolling on the Giant’s Causeway is an essential voyage for any visitor.
Bespoke Luxury Travel to the UK/Northern Ireland
Lugos Travel offers custom Luxury UK travel and Northern Ireland travel tours to guide you through the cities and the countryside. You can add every item on this list to your itinerary, or have our luxury travel experts put together a smaller, more intimate travel experience for you. Inquire about VIP-style luxury travel tours today.
