3 Day Tour of Northern Ireland from Belfast

Morning
Ulster American Folk Park, Spa Package
Afternoon
Derry city walls and shopping
Evening
Hot Tub Bbq and Open Fire / Takeaway or restuarant

Morning: Ulster American Folk Park & Spa Package

Ulster American Folk Park: A Journey Through History

Start your day with a visit to the Ulster American Folk Park, located just outside Omagh, a 90-minute drive from Derry or Belfast. This immersive outdoor museum tells the fascinating story of Irish emigration to America, showcasing the lives of ordinary people who left Ireland in the 18th and 19th centuries in search of a new life across the Atlantic.

• Explore the Open-Air Museum: Walk through recreated cottages, farms, and American settlements to experience how people lived both in Ireland and the New World. You’ll have the opportunity to see historical artifacts, interact with costumed interpreters, and even experience demonstrations of traditional crafts.

• Learn About Emigration: Discover the poignant stories of Irish emigrants, including their journey, hardships, and success in America. The park also features exhibits about the ships that carried them and the challenges they faced in their new homes.

• Beautiful Countryside: As you walk through the park, you’ll be surrounded by scenic views of the Irish countryside, offering a peaceful and reflective start to the day.

Spa Package: Relax and Unwind

After your educational and fascinating morning, enjoy a spa package to help you unwind and relax. Many nearby hotels or spa resorts offer luxurious packages with access to hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms, and massage treatments.

• Rejuvenating Treatments: Choose from a variety of soothing treatments like a facial, aromatherapy massage, or a full-body treatment. Let the stress melt away as you enjoy a tranquil atmosphere.

• Hot Tub & Sauna: After your treatments, relax in a hot tub or sauna, allowing the peaceful ambiance to enhance your relaxation before moving on to the next part of your day.

Afternoon: Derry City Walls & Shopping

Derry City Walls: A Walk Through History

In the afternoon, head over to Derry, one of Northern Ireland’s most fascinating and historically rich cities. Derry’s famous city walls are the best-preserved in Ireland and date back to the early 17th century.

• Stroll Along the Walls: Take a leisurely walk around the city walls, which offer stunning views of the city and surrounding landscapes. Your guide or a self-guided tour will give you fascinating insights into the city’s history, including the Siege of Derry, and the city’s role in The Troubles.

• Explore the Historic Sites: Along the walls, you’ll find interesting landmarks such as the St. Columb’s Cathedral and the Tower Museum, where you can learn more about Derry’s history, from its founding to its modern-day significance.

Shopping in Derry: A Blend of Local Charm and International Brands

After soaking in Derry’s history, take time to explore the city’s shopping district. Derry offers a wonderful mix of independent boutiques, traditional Irish shops, and well-known international brands.

• Independent Boutiques: Stroll through Shipquay Street and Foyle Street for a selection of local shops selling unique Irish goods, including jewelry, artisan crafts, and traditional woolens.

• Shopping Malls: For a more modern experience, head to Foyleside Shopping Centre, a multi-level mall with high-street brands, fashion outlets, and gift shops offering perfect souvenirs or gifts.

• Food & Drink Shopping: Don’t forget to stop by the local markets or delis to pick up some fresh local produce, artisan food, and unique treats to take home.

Evening: Hot Tub BBQ, Open Fire & Dinner

Relaxation in Your Accommodation: Hot Tub BBQ and Open Fire

As the day winds down, head back to your self-catering accommodation or rental, where you can enjoy a cozy and relaxing evening. Set up a BBQ and enjoy the evening with the hot tub, open fire, and a delicious dinner.

• Hot Tub Soak: Slip into a warm, bubbling hot tub under the stars, letting the heat soothe your muscles and help you unwind after a full day of exploration.

• BBQ Feast: Prepare a delicious BBQ meal with locally sourced meats, seafood, and fresh vegetables. Grill up some classic favorites like sausages, steaks, burgers, and vegetables for a satisfying meal in a relaxed, outdoor setting. Serve with fresh salads, sides, and local craft beers or wines.

• Open Fire Relaxation: After the BBQ, gather around the open fire or fire pit, roasting marshmallows or simply enjoying the warmth and ambiance. It’s the perfect way to reflect on your day while staying cozy in the cool evening air.

Dinner Options: Takeaway or Restaurant

• Takeaway: If you’d rather not cook, consider getting a takeaway from a local restaurant in Derry or Omagh. Choose from a variety of cuisines, from fish and chips to Indian, Chinese, or pizza. Many local establishments offer delivery or pick-up options.

• Restaurant Dining: Alternatively, enjoy dinner at one of Derry’s charming restaurants. Try traditional Irish dishes like beef and Guinness stew, fish and chips, or Irish lamb at a cozy local pub or fine dining restaurant.

Why This Itinerary?

This day blends relaxation, history, culture, and good food, offering a perfect mix of activities and downtime. From exploring the rich history of the Ulster American Folk Park, relaxing at a spa, and walking through the Derry city walls, to unwinding with a hot tub BBQ and open fire, you’ll experience Northern Ireland in a way that’s both enriching and restful. Whether you’re soaking in the history, enjoying the stunning scenery, or unwinding with loved ones around the fire, this day offers the best of what the region has to offer.

Enjoy your day of discovery, relaxation, and fun!

Morning
Breakfast in accomodation / Dunluce castle, giants causeway
Afternoon
Lunch at Giantsway / rope bridge or bushmills / dark hedges
Evening
Hot Tub Bbq and Open Fire / Takeaway or restuarant

Morning: Breakfast, Dunluce Castle & Giant’s Causeway

Breakfast in Your Accommodation

Start your day right with a delicious breakfast at your self-catering accommodation. Enjoy a hearty spread of traditional Irish breakfast items, such as eggs, bacon, sausages, black pudding, fresh bread, and tea or coffee. Whether you’re preparing your own meal or being served, breakfast will fuel you up for the exciting day ahead!

Dunluce Castle: A Step Back in Time

Your first stop of the day is Dunluce Castle, a dramatic and picturesque medieval castle perched on the edge of a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

• Explore the Ruins: Walk through the ruins of Dunluce, imagining life in the 16th century as you explore the chambers, walls, and towers. The castle’s location offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline.

• Historic Insights: Learn about the castle’s turbulent history, from its role in the Nine Years’ War to its connection with the MacDonnell clan.

It’s a must-see site that captures the rich history and natural beauty of the Northern Irish coast.

Giant’s Causeway: UNESCO World Heritage Site

Next, head to the Giant’s Causeway, one of the most iconic landmarks in Northern Ireland. This natural wonder, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its hexagonal basalt columns, created by volcanic activity millions of years ago.

• Explore the Causeway: Take a walk along the basalt columns, marvel at the interlocking stones, and listen to the fascinating geological history behind the formation.

• Mythology & Legends: Learn about the legend of Finn McCool, the giant who supposedly created the Causeway to cross to Scotland. The folklore adds a magical touch to the stunning landscape.

Take in the incredible views of the Atlantic, and don’t forget to snap some photos—this is one of the most photographed spots in Northern Ireland!

Afternoon: Lunch at Giant’s Way / Rope Bridge or Bushmills Distillery / Dark Hedges

Lunch at Giant’s Way or Bushmills

After exploring the Giant’s Causeway, take a break and enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant or café. You can choose to dine at Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre, where you can sample hearty meals with local ingredients and enjoy a cozy atmosphere while gazing out over the landscape. Alternatively, you might want to head to Bushmills for a traditional pub lunch or a bite in one of the cozy spots in the village.

• Traditional Irish Fare: Opt for Irish stew, fish and chips, or local seafood, accompanied by a refreshing drink or even a Bushmills whiskey if you’re in the area!

Rope Bridge at Carrick-a-Rede (Optional)

After lunch, if you’re up for a little adventure, make your way to the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, a thrilling and iconic experience. The bridge connects the mainland to the tiny island of Carrickarede and offers breathtaking views of the coastline. It’s a fun and scenic walk across the bridge (it’s safe, but it certainly tests your nerves!).

• Panoramic Views: As you cross the rope bridge, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the cliffs and the wild Atlantic Ocean. If you’re lucky, you may spot dolphins or seals in the water below!

If heights aren’t your thing, you can also visit the Bushmills Distillery in Bushmills Village, where you can take a tour and learn about the production of Bushmills whiskey. A whiskey tasting session is also a fun way to wrap up your visit to the area.

Dark Hedges: Walk Through the Kingsroad

No trip to Northern Ireland is complete without a visit to the Dark Hedges, a famous avenue of beech trees planted in the 18th century. Known for its otherworldly, almost mystical atmosphere, the Dark Hedges is a must-visit for photographers and Game of Thrones fans (this is where the iconic Kingsroad scenes were filmed).

• A Walk Through Nature: Stroll through the Dark Hedges, taking in the breathtaking sights of the towering trees that arch over the road, creating a dramatic and enchanting canopy.

• Perfect for Photos: The Dark Hedges is one of the most Instagrammable spots in Northern Ireland, especially in the soft light of the late afternoon.

Evening: Hot Tub BBQ & Open Fire / Takeaway or Restaurant Dinner

Relaxation: Hot Tub BBQ & Open Fire

After a busy day of exploration, head back to your self-catering accommodation, where you can unwind in a hot tub and prepare for a relaxed evening with a BBQ and an open fire.

• Hot Tub Relaxation: Soak in the warm waters of the hot tub as you gaze at the stars and relax your muscles after a day of sightseeing. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and let your worries melt away.

• BBQ Feast: Prepare a delicious BBQ in your private outdoor space, cooking up some local meats, fresh vegetables, and maybe even seafood from the local coastline. Serve it with fresh salads, potatoes, and a refreshing drink for a satisfying meal.

Open Fire & Cozy Atmosphere

After the BBQ, gather around the open fire or fire pit to wind down. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows, enjoying some light conversation, or simply enjoying the warmth of the fire, it’s a perfect way to end your day.

• Evening of Comfort: The crackling of the fire and the warmth of the hot tub will create a cozy atmosphere to reflect on the day’s adventures.

Dinner Options: Takeaway or Restaurant

If you prefer not to cook, you can opt for takeaway from a nearby local restaurant or enjoy a relaxing meal at a restaurant in one of the nearby towns.

• Takeaway Options: Choose from fish and chips, pizza, or Indian/Chinese takeaway to enjoy in the comfort of your accommodation.

• Restaurant Dining: Alternatively, enjoy dinner at one of Derry’s or Bushmills’ charming restaurants. Try traditional Irish dishes like Irish stew, lamb, or fresh local seafood for a satisfying and memorable meal.

Breakfast in accomodation / Titanic optional political black taxi tour
Afternoon
Shopping and sightseeing
Evening
Back to Dublin