Over 1.3 million of us made the short journey from the Republic in 2023, up 46% from the previous year. It’s hard to deny its allure - with stunning landscapes, endless activities for every type of adventurer, and a host of affordable luxurious accommodation at your disposal.
All that’s left to do is narrow down your itinerary.
1. Go Stargazing at OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory in Tyrone
March and April have a number of spectacular astro events to watch out for, so why not embark on an astronomical and archaeological adventure at the heart of the Davagh Forest in the Sperrin Mountains? Choose from landscape tours and 'stars and stones’ experiences - including the Beaghmore Stones, a mysterious formation of seven large circles, 10 rows and 12 cairns.
It’s thought they may be linked to the solstice - but you can draw your own conclusions as you wander and gaze at the constellations overhead in Northern Ireland’s only Dark Sky Park.
2. Take a water taxi across Lough Erne in Fermanagh
Explore Lough Erne and the monastic Devenish Island on your very own private boat tour complete with a personal guide and skipper with Erne Water Taxi. Your one-hour tour around Northern Ireland’s second-biggest lake will be filled with panoramic views of untouched landscape to marvel at, and endless local folklore to hear from your guide.
It’s an eco-friendly way to connect with nature, while offering a change of pace from the car journey to get there. For a breathtaking view of the lake when you open the curtains each morning, consider Lough Erne Resort, Manor House Country Hotel, and The Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel & Lodges for accommodation.
3. Explore The Walled City of Derry
The historic 400-year-old walls are the star of the show, and no visit to Derry would be complete without a guided walking tour around them to reveal a city crammed full of history, heritage and a vibrant cultural scene. Along the way, you’ll come across the Guildhall. This free-to-visit beautifully ornate building has played host to presidents, playwrights and poets over the years, and was also a key filming location in Derry Girls.
Don’t miss a selfie at the famous Derry Girls mural, or go one step further and pay a visit to the Tower Museum to see original memorabilia from the hit show. For a fully-immersive adventure, step onto the set of the Quinn household and feel like a real member of the family at The Derry Girls Experience.
4. Get active at Strangford Lough Activity Centre in Down
Whether you prefer to be land or water-based, there’s an overwhelming amount of choice at the centre. Try some traditional archery, orienteering and axe-throwing, or even practice your bushcraft survival skills for your next camp out.
Get your adrenaline pumping with canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding and wet bouldering. Or practice your teamwork with physical, mental and skill based-games, and laser tag. You’ll find it near Whiterock in Killinchy, just over 2 hours from Dublin.
5. Cross the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge in Antrim
Built by salmon fishermen in 1755, the bridge links the mainland to Carrickarede island. You’ll find it at the tip top of the Causeway Coastal Route in Ballintoy, with the sound of the waves crashing and swirling 30 metres below your feet.
If your visit is blessed with clear weather, you’ll take in views of Rathlin Island and Scotland in the distance, and spot evidence of volcanic eruptions from 60 million years ago. The nearby Giant’s Causeway and Dunluce Castle are other key sites to tick off your bucket list.
6. Indulge in a glamping experience in Armagh
Slieve Gullion Getaways offers glamping pods and huts that each come with private hot tubs, located at the picturesque foot of the mountain, and within walking distance from Meigh village.
Alternatively, Bramley Haven is just one mile from Armagh City, nestled among 20 acres of Bramley apple orchards and meadows. Choose from self-catering shepherd huts and family-sized huts, or bell tents.
Within the Ring of Gullion lies Slieve Gullion Forest Park, a stunning natural retreat. It offers scenic walking trails and breathtaking views, as well as a range of family-friendly attractions, including an adventure playground and a magical fairy glen.
Book your next short break at www.discovernorthernireland.com
