Ferry to Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland, a land rich with natural splendour and thrilling escapades, sets the stage for your next adventure. Dive into the heart of its stunning landscapes where rugged coastlines meet serene countryside. Hike through the lush Glens of Antrim, brave the waves along the Causeway Coast with a surfboard, or discover the secrets of ancient castles and mysterious caves. When the day’s explorations wrap up, vibrant cities like Belfast offer a mosaic of music, food, and culture. Your Northern Ireland adventure awaits at every turn.

Flights to Northern Ireland typically land at Belfast International Airport or George Best Belfast City Airport, with flights from London taking about an hour and a half. For those arriving by sea, ferry services connect Scotland and England with ports in Belfast and Larne, promising picturesque views along the way.

Antrim Coast and Glens: Drive the Causeway Coastal Route, one of the world's great road journeys, offering breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, charming villages, and stunning natural landscapes, including Giant's Causeway.

Bushmills: Visit the Old Bushmills Distillery, the world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery, for a tour and a tasting of their renowned Irish whiskey

.Belfast: Immerse yourself in the history of the Titanic at Titanic Belfast, an iconic, award-winning museum located on the slipways where the famous ship was built. Take a Black Cab Tour to learn about the history of ‘The Troubles’ and see the famous political murals in West Belfast. It's a powerful and insightful cultural experience.

Try a ‘Ulster Fry’ for breakfast: This hearty traditional dish typically includes soda bread, potato bread, bacon, sausage, eggs, and often black pudding or white pudding – an authentic taste of Northern Ireland.

Mourne Mountains: Embark on a hike in the majestic Mourne Mountains, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Peaks like Slieve Donard offer challenging climbs and incredible panoramic views.

Strangford Lough: Experience watersports like kayaking, paddleboarding, or sailing on Strangford Lough, the largest sea lough in the British Isles and a vital wildlife habitat.

Derry/Londonderry: Walk the historic Walls of Derry, dating back to the 17th century. These intact city walls offer a fascinating glimpse into the city's past and provide excellent urban landscape views.

Enniskillen: Discover the beauty of Lough Erne and visit Enniskillen Castle Museums, which house Fermanagh's county and regimental museums, offering insights into local history and heritage.

Spring (March-May) and summer (June-August) are ideal, with long daylight hours and vibrant festivals. 

Autumn (September - November) brings beautiful foliage, and avoiding peak summer crowds can enhance a serene experience of the attractions.

Winter (December - February) is perfect for cosy evenings in charming pubs.

Languages: While English is the most commonly spoken language, Northern Ireland officially recognises two other languages: Irish (Gaeilge) and Ulster-Scots. Efforts are ongoing to promote and preserve both.

Currency: The official currency used in Northern Ireland is the Pound Sterling (£), just like the rest of the United Kingdom. However, some banknotes issued by Northern Irish banks (Bank of Ireland, Danske Bank, Ulster Bank) are also legal tender.

Ancient History - Giant's Causeway: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Giant's Causeway on the Antrim coast is a stunning natural wonder formed by volcanic activity around 50 to 60 million years ago. Its distinctive hexagonal basalt columns are steeped in local legend, most notably the tale of the giant Finn MacCool.

History - Partition: Northern Ireland was created in 1921 when Ireland was partitioned by the Government of Ireland Act. Six of Ulster's nine counties remained part of the United Kingdom, forming Northern Ireland, while the other 26 counties formed the Irish Free State (now the Republic of Ireland).

History - The Troubles: A period of ethno-nationalist conflict known as ‘The Troubles’ significantly impacted Northern Ireland from the late 1960s until the Good Friday Agreement in 1998. It involved paramilitary groups, the British Army, and political unrest, leaving a lasting legacy on the region's society and politics.

Nearest Neighbours: Northern Ireland's only land border is with the Republic of Ireland to the south and west. To the east, across the North Channel, lies Scotland, and to the southeast, across the Irish Sea, is England.

Festivals - Belfast International Arts Festival: One of the most significant cultural events is the Belfast International Arts Festival, held annually in October. It features a diverse theatre, music, dance, visual arts, and literature program from local and international artists.

Famous People Born There - C.S. Lewis: Clive Staples Lewis, the renowned author of The Chronicles of Narnia and other influential works, was born in Belfast in 1898. His childhood experiences in Northern Ireland are believed to have influenced his literary imagination.

Famous People Born There - Liam Neeson: The internationally acclaimed actor Liam Neeson, known for his roles in films such as Schindler's List and the Taken series, was born in Ballymena, County Antrim, in 1952.

Northern Ireland covers approximately 5,530 sq mi (14,330 km²), offering a compact but diverse landscape. Once there, Translink's public transport system, including buses and trains, connects major towns and attractions. Alternatively, car hire is a convenient option for exploring the less accessible yet breathtaking rural landscapes. The extensive road network makes travelling between the vibrant cities and scenic countryside efficient and straightforward.