Enter into the giant spirit that autumn offers in Northern Ireland, as it transforms into a vibrant tapestry of hues urging you to delve into its lush landscapes. Allow the cultural happenings, incredible food and drink, and warm reception to chart your course.
There are numerous unique experiences to be had, picturesque sites to see and comfortable accommodations to relax in, all less than a hour and a half travel from Dublin. These make Northern Ireland an excellent choice for a final excursion following our damp summer.
Belfast has rightfully earned its spot on National Geographic’s Cool List for 2024, as it comes alive during autumn with theatre performances, cultural festivals, and music events within the city’s year of culture.
Throughout 2024, Belfast has held a rich and thrilling schedule of events – from immersive light and sound displays at the Titanic’s birthplace to global premieres. They have celebrated black music and culture, experimented with augmented reality, and much more is yet to come as the year draws to a close.
Venture beyond the confines of the city and delight in the Causeway Coastal Route’s charm, a road closely bordered by a rugged shoreline, presenting beautiful views around every bend. This drive frequently tops the charts in esteemed travel publications.
During your journey, make a pitstop for a cup of coffee in the quaint harbour town of Carnlough, leisurely explore the Glens of Antrim as the coastline leads you to beloved resort towns like Bushmills, Ballycastle, Portrush, and Portstewart. Finally, reach the Walled City of Derry and savour world-class dining and a friendly greeting.
At this time of year, sunsets are beyond comparison, especially the splendid vibrant displays over Lough Erne in County Fermanagh. The nippy weather conditions are ideal for hiking. Do you have what it takes to surmount one of the Mourne Mountains’ eight loftiest pinnacles?
Discover Northern Ireland has assembled this list of extraordinary accommodations and experiences to engage with during an autumn trip.
Titanic Hotel, Belfast
Once the Harland & Wolff Headquarters and Drawing Offices, this architectural beauty is now the world’s most genuine four-star Titanic Hotel. With 119 beautifully curate rooms, two dining establishments, and the restored dual Victorian Drawing Offices known for the captivating three-storey-high barrel-shaped ceilings. Here, enjoying a cocktail turns into a captivating experience. The lively Titanic Quarter and renowned Titanic Belfast experience are conveniently close. In fact, they are exactly at its doorstep.
Belfast, akin to renowned cities like Berlin and Bethlehem, is a melting pot for international street art, owing much to its iconic walls. Seedhead Arts presents a unique two-hour exploration by foot, offering visitors an enlightening look at the meanings, techniques and unheard stories behind these vibrant works and their creators.
Nestled along the renowned Causeway Coastal Route is the four-star Bushmills Inn Hotel. This establishment, originally a coaching inn from the 1600s, now provides luxurious accommodation with an old-world charm. Visitors can relish fine dining, unwind in elegantly chic rooms, and socialise in a gaslit bar. Unique features such as a confidential library, a flag room and an AA Rosette restaurant enhance the distinct ambiance, perfect for enjoying the breathtaking coastline.
Northern Ireland is a golfer’s paradise. After successfully hosting the Amgen Irish Open, the anticipation for the return of The Open Championship to Royal Portrush in 2025 is palpable. Prior to the swarm of professional golfers and fans globally, consider booking a round at one of Northern Ireland’s exceptional links and parkland courses such as Portstewart, Castlerock and Ballycastle.
The Shipquay Hotel in Derry features an enchanting fusion of its Italianate-style heritage and modern accents. Overlooking the city’s historic walls and the esteemed Guildhall, this hotel is suitably located at the heart of shopping, arts and social activity. Imbibe the ‘Legenderry’ gourmet offerings at numerous restaurants around the city, after savouring a luxurious downtime at the hotel.
The recently opened Peacemakers Museum in 2024, set in Derry’s Bogside area, recalls major incidents of the conflict such as the Battle of the Bogside and Bloody Sunday. It offers a comprehensive account of the Agreement using an array of artefacts, recorded histories, archival records and interactive features. Also, do explore the Tower and Siege Museums and the Museum of Free Derry.
Lastly, an experience in County Fermanagh wouldn’t be complete without a stay at Manor House Country Hotel.
Located along the shores of Lough Erne, the Manor House Country Hotel is a sublime blend of vintage allure and contemporary comfort, making it an ideal countryside getaway. This notable 18th Century Grade Two listed estate features lavish amenities including an AA Rosette Belleek Restaurant, Sanctuary Spa, leisure facilities and activities such as golf, boat hire and tennis.
Just within reach is the wooden trail to Cuilcagh Mountain’s peak, colloquially known as the Stairway to Heaven, which offers not just a challenge for hikers of every age, but also displays an exceptional consideration for nature. A short distance from this, in a UNESCO Global Geopark, lie the Marble Arch Caves, ranking amongst Europe’s most awe-inspiring show caves.
In County Down, Hillyard House, an award-winning boutique hotel, invites you to take things slow. You could unwind in any of their 20 guestrooms, each adorned with a modern aesthetic and curated amenities. From the hotel, Castlewellan Forest Park is easily reachable and offers one of Northern Ireland’s renowned lakes, the grand Castlewellan Castle from the Victorian era, breath-taking views, forest walks, mountain biking trails and the famous Castlewellan Peace Maze.
The Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark presents an array of 15 new outdoor activities and thrilling ventures guaranteed to provide unforgettable experiences to both soft adventurers and nature lovers. Options range from river dipping in the wild, to historical farming and foraging in the Ring of Gullion and even embarking on a gold hunt in the Mourne Mountains.
If you are in search of a peaceful autumnal retreat, Blessingbourne Estate in County Tyrone, with its latest addition, the Garden House, is your place. This stunning four-bedroom bungalow, complete with a garden, patio, lounge, sunroom, and dining room, offers an idyllic setting for families or groups amidst the Clogher Valley’s scenic splendour.
Immerse yourself in history by exploring the ancient O’Neill Hill at Ranfurly House Arts and Visitor Centre or admire the majestic Harry Avery’s Castle. This experience will enlighten you about why Co Tyrone is affectionately known as ‘O’Neill Country’. While you’re there, make sure to have an enriching visit to The Argory in Dungannon, an exquisite neo-classical mansion. Explore what lies within its refined walls before indulging in scenic riverside and woodland walks.
Blackwell House, County Armagh
Indulge in respite at Blackwell House, a sanctuary designed for rejuvenation, savouring scrumptious local cuisine and reconnecting with the tranquillity of nature. Nestled in the serene County Armagh landscape, this sumptuous guesthouse is an idyllic setting for those yearning solitude. Enjoy forest walks, stroll in the park or along the local canal towpath, all the while looking forward to a gastronomic delight created from the choicest local ingredients upon your return.
The McKeever family, with their three generations of experience in apple cultivation at their Portadown estate, are experts in Armagh’s iconic fruit. During the Long Meadow Cider Farm Tour and Tasting, you will traverse the apple orchards and observe the procedures involved in the processing and pressing of this delectable fruit. You will also pick up the traditional skills of soda bread making and get a chance to savour artisanal ciders and freshly squeezed apple juice.