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Belfast and Antrim Coast

Take your car to make the most of this spectacular area. Drive along this stunning coast on one of the world’s great road journeys.

When you arrive in Larne by ferry from Troon or Cairnryan, Northern Ireland is at your feet just waiting to be discovered. Whether you want lose yourself on the spectacular coast finding unique features like the Giant’s Causeway, learn about a fascinating history or find Victorian splendour in the cosmopolitan city of Belfast.

Explore the Coast
In Larne you can take your car straight onto the Causeway Coastal Route. This has been described as one of the world’s great road journeys and runs the 120 miles from the outskirts of Belfast along the famous Antrim Coast Road to the outskirts of the walled city of Derry. It’s a journey not to be hurried as every twist and turn in the road will reveal exhilarating new sights.

Along this route you’ll find the legendary Giant’s Causeway. The fascinating rock formations caused by volcanic action millions of years ago make it a World Heritage Site. If you’re brave and looking for adventure you can cross the famous Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge – the views will be worth it. For more great views stop at the Mussenden Temple and take a walk along the clifftop. Or explore the dramatic, romantic landscape of the famous nine Glens of Antrim characterised by tumbling waterfalls, forest parks and scenery steeped in music and folklore?

The region is renowned for its golf with its great links and parkland courses from Ballyclare to Royal Portrush. And of course it’s also famous for great whiskey production, which can be explored at the Old Bushmills Distillery.

Belfast
From Larne it only takes 40 minutes to drive to the vibrant city of Belfast. This is a great place to just wander and enjoy the bars, restaurants and shops. The St George’s Market is a Victorian covered market selling everything from coffee to fish to antiques and clothes. 

Families will love the Ulster Museum, which is free and packed with art, history and natural science. Currently exhibiting at the Ulster Museum TITANICa, the all new experience of all things Titanic. Get closer to Titanic with incredible personal stories and discover 500 original artefacts, including objects recovered from the seabed. Then walk the historic streets, exploring Titanic world. For more information about the exhibition visit nmni.com/titanic.

For a more serene atmosphere visit the Botanic Gardens. The Grand Opera House is another must-see attraction in Belfast, it's a beautiful building with a painted ceiling, ornate balconies, decorated with Hindu gods and oriental motifs.

Events
The massive international Belfast Festival at Queens is buzzing with music, theatre, visual arts and film and takes place in October. The Irish Game Fair is held in Shanes Castle in July and is the nation’s largest country sports and lifestyle event.