All in an afternoon

In a few hours you could experience what Northern Ireland’s cities have to offer...

Got an hour or two to spare? Why not turn freetime into a day to remember in Belfast or the City of Londonderry.

If in Belfast, there are many wonderful ways to spend a morning or afternoon. If you think the outside of our City Hall is magnificent, just wait until you tour the interior! Only a short walk or bus ride away is one of Northern Ireland’s premier museums, the Ulster Museum. There’s always a fantastic exhibition on, and if the weather’s good you can stroll through Botanic Gardens on its doorstep. Maybe a boat tour of the River Lagan is more your thing. You could visit the birthplace of the legendary Titanic. You can even manage a whirlwind city tour via double decker bus or black taxi.

You haven’t seen the City of Londonderry until you’ve walked along its 17th Century walls encircling the city’s ancient heart. Derry is the only completely walled city in the British Isles and its ramparts are beautifully preserved even down to the cannons. Throughout July and August the city is buzzing with street entertainment. If time permits, stop in at places of interest along the way, the Guildhall, or Ireland’s oldest cathedral St. Columb’s. Or admire the breathtaking views over the city and the Foyle Estuary. At the Tower Museum, you can voyage through 1000 years of history, or shop for the unique and unusual in the lanes of Derry’s Craft Quarter.

Yes, there’s always shopping! Both cities boast all the high street names and new boutiques, and because it’s Northern Ireland, the value is good. On a Friday or Saturday morning, St. George’s Market in Belfast is the place to be for the freshest local food, flowers and deli delights.