If you’re looking to step outside of the city’s hustle and bustle, there are lots of lovely places less than an hour’s drive away. Enjoy...
The small village of Greyabbey in
County Down is only a 40-minute car journey from
Belfast and is set along the shores of Strangford Lough on the Ards Peninsula – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Explore Grey Abbey House, one of Northern Ireland’s most impressive Georgian country houses, and its beautiful gardens, not forgetting Grey Abbey itself. And if you fancy a bit of shopping, check out some of the town’s treasure-filled antique stores, too.
Head north from Belfast along the
Causeway Coastal Route for about 50 minutes and you’ll get to a picturesque village called Glenarm. First port of call here has to be the handsome
Glenarm castle, which is the private home of the McDonnell family since it was first built in 1636. Be sure to check out its wonderful walled gardens, as well as its many nature trails – so pack those walking boots!
Moy,
County Tyrone, is another charming village, with a vibrant atmosphere and friendly faces that will have you feeling right at home. Stretch those legs with a stroll through the Benburb Valley Park, before refuelling at the village’s cute cafés and weekly farmers’ market – all just 45 minutes from Belfast.
Just 45 minutes west and surrounded by apple orchards is the small village of Loughgall in
County Armagh. Head to
Loughgall Country Park and follow walking trails, go fishing or even take in a round of golf. Or take a tour of the impressive 17th century Loughgall Manor House, Dan Winter’s House, which has artefacts from the Battle of the Diamond on display, or the
Armagh Cider Company, where you can learn all about the cider making process from blossom to bottle!
So, while Belfast is a fabulous city, a day out to one of the charming villages nearby is a rather excellent idea! Have any of our great contributors got more ideas for day trips from Belfast?
