When it comes to weekend breaks in Northern Ireland, there are loads to choose from. Whether you want a city getaway, a countryside escape, or a seaside adventure, Northern Ireland will have the perfect option for you, and it’s only two hours away via our Cairnryan to Larne ferry crossing.
Here, we share what we consider to be some of the best weekend breaks via a ferry to Northern Ireland, no matter what time of year you’re travelling, or who you’re taking with you.
1. Weekend breaks in Portrush
Just over an hour from Larne port by car, Portrush is a charming seaside destination that offers plenty to do for the whole family. Originally a quiet fishing village, this town has retained lots of its charm but is now a popular destination among Northern Ireland residents and those travelling from further afield. One of Portrush’s main highlights is its stunning scenery, and the fact that there’s always something to do, no matter what time of year you visit.
Those who love the great outdoors will feel right at home in Portrush, as it boasts fantastic walking trails, stunning views, and wonderful beaches. In fact, Portrush is home to 3 of Northern Ireland’s 8 Blue Flag beaches, and each one is worth visiting for different reasons. For example, the West Strand offers lovely views of the town, the East Strand is perfect for those who want to swim in the sea, and The Whiterocks beach is popular with surfers.
Another part of Portrush that is loved by locals and visitors alike is its harbour. With a selection of bars and restaurants to enjoy, the harbour offers a great place to sit back and relax while you admire charming fishing boats as they pass by. From here, you can also take a boat cruise along the Causeway coast – a great way to see this striking part of Northern Ireland. In addition to its harbour, Portrush is known for its Championship golf course, and Barry’s Amusements – the largest amusement park in the country! The park offers everything from thrilling rides to classic amusements, so there’s something for the whole family to enjoy.
2. Weekend breaks in Derry
Derry, or Londonderry, is the perfect place to head for a truly Northern Irish experience. With years of fascinating history to discover, you’ll never be short of things to do here. Start your weekend break in Derry with a walk around its city walls. Diamond in shape, these walls have never been breached, and were the last defensive walls to be built in Europe. 1.6km in length, Derry’s walls offer amazing views of both the countryside and the Inner City, and you can count 24 canons as you walk round too. The most famous of which is ‘Roaring Meg’, the largest and loudest of them all. In one of the wall’s towers you’ll find the Tower Museum, which is certainly worth a visit if you’re interested in Derry’s history.
The most historic building in Derry is St. Columb’s Cathedral, whose nave and tower date back to the early 1630s. Admire its impressive arches and columns, marvel at its lovely stained glass windows, and see a number of unique items from the time of the siege. You might also want to visit St. Eugene’s Cathedral. Surrounded by Georgian houses, this Roman Catholic cathedral was built from 1849 and opened in 1873 without a bell tower, and with plain glass windows, due to lack of funding. The cathedral now has both stained glass windows and a bell tower, and you’ll be able to hear the bells play out over Derry 4 times a day.
For a break from the city, head around 7 miles outside of Derry to the beautiful Ness Country Park. With 7km of woodland and meadow walks to discover, this is the perfect destination for those who love spending time in the great outdoors. Active visitors will enjoy walking to the Ness waterfall and rapids, whereas those who would prefer a slow amble will like wandering through the meadows. This is ideal for those looking for weekend breaks in Northern Ireland that cover both urban and rural activities.
3. Weekend breaks in Bushmills
Located just 2 miles from Northern Ireland’s famous Giant’s Causeway, Bushmills is a quaint and historic town that boasts plenty of listed buildings, charming houses, and old fashioned shop fronts. With less than 1500 residents calling Bushmills their home, this village is popular with tourists who come to see its main attractions.
Bushmills is mainly known for the Old Bushmills Distillery, which is the oldest working distillery in Ireland. Producing delicious whiskey that is loved by many, the distillery is set in a Victorian building built in the late 1800s, and offers tours so that visitors can see how their popular whiskey is made. Another popular Bushmills attraction in Dunlace Castle. Set on an outcropping, the castle ruins can be explored with the help of a guide that you’ll receive when you visit, and you’ll be treated to amazing views too.
The best way to reach the Giant’s Causeway from Bushmills is on board the diesel train. Running along the same route as the Giant’s Causeway Tram used to, the train journey takes around 20 minutes to travel the 2 mile distance. When you reach your destination, you’re sure to be amazed by the striking basalt columns that make up this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site. Unless you want to go into the Visitors Centre or park your car, access to the Giant’s Causeway is free, so you might also like to consider walking the 2 miles from Bushmills rather than driving.
Now you know where to find the best weekend breaks in Northern Ireland, book your Cairnryan to Larne ferry crossing and start planning some fun short breaks across the Irish Sea.
