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Peter McGoran

100 bucket list things to do in Northern Ireland - your ultimate guide to discovering the country

It's a fact well-known by people who live here that Northern Ireland is the best place in the world.

We don't always admit it to ourselves, but it often raises its head when we're somewhere foreign, pining for everything that's great about home.

Insanely beautiful landscapes, a rich cultural heritage, a deep and endlessly fascinating history, and all the best in food, drink, social life, sport and craic - we're the home of giants and the adopted home of fantasy worlds like Game of Thrones.

There's that much to do and see here that we decided to put as much of it as we could onto one list. So, in no particular order, here's 100 of the best things you can do in Northern Ireland:

1. Go to the Giant's Causeway

Giant's Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland. (Getty)

An obvious one to start with, but the Giant's Causeway should really be at the top of everyone's list. A geological wonder, an internationally recognised attraction, and a perfect gateway to Northern Ireland's beautiful north coast. It's a no-brainer.

2. Take a Game of Thrones tour

Game of Thrones was the phenomenon that put Northern Ireland on the map for the right reasons over a decade ago. Since it became one of the most watched shows of all time, the series has led to many tours popping up throughout the country. These tours double as being good explorations of the show itself - as well as a look at the stunning landscapes, monuments and historic, architectural wonders of Northern Ireland.

3. Hike Cavehill

Cave Hill (Paul Lindsay/Chris Hill Photographic/Getty)

Jutting out over north Belfast, Cavehill offers a perfect short hike, with spectacular views of Belfast, Belfast Lough, and even Scotland in the distance.

4. Hike Divis Mountain

Divis Mountain (Chris Lacey / National Trust Images)

Another excellent short hike within the city of Belfast, Divis Mountain stands a bit taller than Cavehill, and offers unique views - with the likes of Lough Neagh, Tyrone, north Antrim and even (on a good day) Donegal all being visible from parts of the walk.

5. Take a trip to Castle Ward

Home of Winterfell, Castle Ward is a marvellous location even without the Game of Thrones filming history to back it up. Situated towards the bottom of Strangford Lough, this National Trust maintained property offers beautiful grounds, a stately 18th-century mansion, and plenty of activities for kids and adults alike.

6. Discover Rowallane Gardens

Just outside of Saintfield, in Co Down, Rowallane Gardens is not only a wondrous park for a walk, but also offers carefully maintained, visually stunning gardens, packed with exotic flora and more than a few hidden gems.

7. Find hidden gems like Murlough Bay and Torr Head

Morning light at Murlough Bay (@breaking_light_pictures)

Located on a country road just outside of Ballyvoy in Co Antrim, Murlough Bay is one of those wonders that needs to be seen to be believed. A dramatic, sweeping, precarious road down to the shore, surrounded by green rolling hills and incredible basalt formations, Murlough Bay is a true wonder.

The same goes for neighbouring Torr Head - the most north-easternly part of the island of Ireland. A dramatic cliff, with stunning coastal views and panoramas of Scotland in the distance, the drive down to see these landscapes are as stunning as they are dangerous - so exercise caution!

8. Go to Murlough Beach and then explore Newcastle

Murlough Beach, Dundrum Bay, County Down (Getty Images)

With unique trails, pristine sands, and the postcard-perfect image of the Mourne Mountains in view from the shore line, Murlough Beach is one of the best attractions that Northern Ireland has to offer. Almost impossible to go to there without stopping for fish and chips or an ice-cream in the picturesque Newcastle afterwards.

9. Walk along Orlock Point

Located just east of Bangor, Orlock Point offers rocky outcrops along the shoreline, providing the perfect place for a dander. Orlock Point also offers views of Copeland Island - Northern Ireland's only inhabited island on the east coast - and has an interesting history, with evidence that the area was used by smugglers over the centuries.

10. Walk along Carrick-a-rede rope bridge

Just outside of Ballintoy, Co Antrim, Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge was originally used by fishermen centuries ago, but has since become one of the north coast's main attractions, up there with the Giant's Causeway. The bridge spans 20 metres and is 30 metres above the rocks below, meaning it's not for those with fear of heights.

11. Go shopping in Belfast and explore shopping centres like Victoria Square

Even with the difficulties of the pandemic, Belfast city centre continues to a bustling place for shopping. Niche local shops like Born & Bred, plenty of high street brands on Royal Avenue, and beautiful modern shopping centres like Victoria Square have all helped keep life in the place.

12. Go to St George’s Market

One of the best markets in the UK & Ireland and the last surviving Victorian covered market in Belfast, St George's Market is where you'll want to spend a weekend morning or afternoon. Local delicacies, craft and artworks, local singers, and (all-important) free samples galore.

13. Take a shopping trip around Derry

Derry has emerged as a hub for shopping in recent years, with niche outlets, independent stores, and local interest pop-ups. That's all before mentioning the Craft Village, an area packed to the brim with artisan shops, home to local crafters, restaurants and coffee shops.

14. Climb the Mournes

Walkers use the National Trust stone path on Slieve Donard mountain in Newcastle, Co Down (Niall Carson/PA Wire)

It took a pandemic for thousands of us to discover just how much incredible beauty is right on our doorstep. Nowhere is this more true than at the Mourne Moutains, which saw many new visitors climb its peaks and explore its valleys over the past two years. The inspiration for C.S. Lewis' Narnia, the filming location for some of the epic scenes of Game of Thrones, and the source of endless wonder, there's nothing like them.

15. Take a road trip up the Causeway Coast

Causeway Coast, County Antrim (© 2016 Peter Zelei/Getty)

It goes without saying that the entire Causeway Coast offers supreme beauty. That goes right from Belfast, to the historic town of Carrickfergus, to the activity centre of Carnfunnock outside Larne, to the quiet village of Glenarm, to the glens and mountains providing a backdrop to places like Carnlough, Waterfoot and Cushendall, to Ballycastle, and right to the Giant's Causeway itself. A better road trip you couldn't as for.

16. Take the dogs to the ‘Haunted Forest’ at Tollymore

Tollymore Forest Park (Getty Images)

With everything from old oak trees to 'stepping stones' across its rushing rivers, Tollymore Forest Park is great for taking the dogs, great for exploring with the family, and great for a camping trip.

17. Venture into Castewellan Forest Park and Maze

Castlewellan Forest Park (Getty Images)

This forest park once held the largest hedge maze in the world, seeing countless families making confused attempts to find their way to its centre.

The Forest Park is also a perfect spot for mountain biking, running, or just taking a walk round its gorgeous lake.

18. Go to the Titanic Museum

A world-leading, technologically brilliant modern attraction, the Titanic Museum is your gateway to Belfast's industrial history. There's a good reason why it's become the go-to spot to take tourists and visitors.

19. Go to the Ulster Museum

Bursting with exhibitions bringing history, art and science to life, the Ulster Museum has long been beloved by adults and kids alike. The museum currently has science and cultural exhibitions, and an excellent exhibition marking 100 years since Northern Ireland came into existence.

20. Take a Black Taxi Tour

A key spot on Chopper's cab tour is the old Crumlin Road Courthouse (Justin Kernoghan)

Another one that many visitors, tourists and locals put on their 'must-do' list, Black Taxi Tours offer an up-close-and-personal look at Northern Ireland's troubled history, often told from drivers who were eye-witnesses or even participants in its past.

21. Explore Slieve Gullion

Woodland trails, mountainous landscapes, and steeped in mythology and history, Slieve Gullion is, to many, a magical place.

22. See Armagh City and the Cathedrals

An historic Irish city and a centre for everything from Celtic mythology to Irish Christianity, Armagh City is well worth a visit. You can start your tour around the city by exploring both St Patrick's RC Cathedral and St Patrick's CoI Cathedral.

23. Dive into the Marble Arch Caves

Located just outside of Enniskillen, the Marble Arch Caves are a natural environment of caves, rivers, mountains, ancient woodlands, waterfalls and gorges, making it perfect for outdoor adventuring.

24. Take a trek through Cuilcagh Boardwalk (Stairway to Heaven)

Cuilcagh Boardwalk (Getty Images)

Also just outside of Enniskillen, the Cuilcagh Boardwalk trail meanders through one of the largest expanses of blanket bog in Northern Ireland, with the steep climb to the top offering stunning views of the surrounding lowlands.

25. Head to Gortin Glen Forest Park Tyrone

Located just outside of Omagh, Gortin Glen Forest Park is an expansive family-friendly outdoor facility with a destination play park, trim trail, Mountain Bike Trails, walking trails and horse trails.

26. Cycle along the Lagan Towpath

Lagan Towpath (PSNI Lisburn)

Going right from the busy heart of Belfast, out to bucolic countryside and forest area past Shaw's Bridge, then right on in to the heart of Lisburn, the Lagan Towpath is a completely flat, completely brilliant 11-mile cycle with much to see along the way.

27. Cycle along the Comber Greenway

The Comber greenway offers seven miles of traffic-free peace, extending from east Belfast right out to Comber. The pathway, which is flat, has become a boon for the local area, and provides easy access to Comber and surrounding areas.

28. Visit the Belfast Zoo

An aerial view of the flamingo island at Belfast Zoo where a crannog is understood to be buried (Google)

Situated on the slopes of Cavehill Country Park, Belfast Zoo is a 55 acre site and is home to more than 130 species. Aside from being the perfect place for a family trip, the zoo also carries out vital conservation work, both in Northern Ireland and around the world.

29. Explore the 'Peace Walls' or take a tour of them

The peace wall gate at Lanark Way (Rebecca Black/PA Wire)

Northern Ireland's peace walls are both a poignant reminder of our troubled past, and an opportunity for our future. While these walls continue to separate communities, tours of them have also offered chances for locals and visitors alike to understand our shared history.

30. Do the 'Lecale Way' and see south Down

The Lecale Way extends from Downpatrick, taking in Strangford Lough and finishes in Newcastle. The walk (which can be done in parts) not only offers stunning landscapes and views, but it also takes in tower houses, castles and ancient monuments.

31. Take the ferry from Strangford to Portaferry

The new Strangford Ferry (Michael Cooper)

This 5 minute ferry ride across Strangford Lough lets you go from one picturesque, Lough-side town to another. On both sides, you'll find an abundance to cafes, restaurants and local shops, while Portaferry also gives you access to the south of the Ards Peninsula, with locations like Ballyquintan Point and Corrog Wood all ready to discover.

32. Minnowburn & Giant’s Ring

(Photo: Design Pics Inc/Getty)

The hedge monument of Giant's Ring, just off the Shaw's Bridge section of the Lagan River, is an ancient relic of the Neolithic Period in Ireland. Great for a walk, great for views, and accessible from the quiet woodlands of Minnowburn, it's a nice place to spend an afternoon.

33. Bubble Domes in Fermanagh

Sleep out under the stars at Finn Lough in Fermanagh in their famous Bubble Domes. At Finn Lough resort, the accommodation offering, which includes 180 degree transparent walls and roof with views of the forest surroundings, includes a bespoke four poster bed, ensuite bathroom, Nespresso coffee machine, fluffy robe and slippers and daily breakfast.

The domes were created in collaboration with Belleek-based designer Ronan Lowery.

34. Walk around Stormont Estate

Stormont (Justin Kernoghan/Belfast Live)

The quiet, well-maintained grounds of the Stormont Estate sometimes seem like a world away from the chaos that often goes inside Stormont Parliament Buildings. The Estate is great for families, dogs, and offers excellent views of Belfast.

35. Visit Glenoe Waterfall

Glenoe Waterfall (Holly McDonagh)

Considered a 'hidden treasure' by many in mid and east Antrim, the 30 foot Glenoe Waterfall is located just outside of Larne, nestled among greenery and forestry. It's a brilliant spot at the foot of the glens.

36. Head to Glenariff Forest Park

Inver River, Glenariff Forest Park, Glens of Antrim (Getty Images)

Glenariff, called 'The Queen of the Glens', is often considered the jewel in the crown of this part of the country. The Forest Park takes in everything from hills with panoramic views of the Glens, to sweeping hills, to waterfalls, to hidden trails. A must-see for any explorer.

37. Take a Belfast bus tour

Good for locals and international visitors alike, the Belfast bus tour is a good way to get a whistle-stop tour at the city's sights, while also learning about its history. Plenty of bus tours are on the go in the city on any given day.

38. Do the Game of Thrones studio tour

Fans will be able to wander through authentic sets from the show (HBO Game of Thrones¨ Studio Tour)

The Game of Thrones studio tour is set to open to the public in February 2022. Located in Linen Mill Studios in Banbridge, the 110,000-square-foot interactive experience will allow fans to explore a vast array of original sets, costumes, props and set pieces, with the aim of bringing visitors closer to the Seven Kingdoms than ever before.

39. See the Derry Girls mural

Derry Girls mural in Derry (Justin Kernoghan/Belfast Live)

Located on Orchard Street, the recently painted Derry Girls mural has become something of a pilgrimage for lovers of the Channel 4 show (and there's plenty of them across the world, if viewing figures are anything to go by). If you want to up your Derry Girls knowledge, there's plenty of Derry Girls tours to take as well, which will show you filming locations for the show in both Derry City and in Belfast.

40. Visit Dunluce Castle

A picturesque medieval castle which juts out over the north coast, Dunluce Castle is as historic as it is pleasing to the eye. It's right on the north coast as well, so well worth a stop.

41. Carrickfergus Castle

The exterior of Carrickfergus Castle in County Antrim (© 2014- Northern Ireland Tourist Board)

A Norman castle constructed in the 12th century, Carrickfergus Castle has played a major role in shaping the history of this part of the world (as well as having roles in other historic events, including the American War of Independence). Worth visiting for the history alone, and worth hanging around to the explore the seaside town of Carrickfergus.

42. Go to Browns Bay and explore Islandmagee

(National Trust)

The small peninsula of Islandmagee is so quietly rural that often times it's overlooked, which is a shame because it really is a beautiful part of the world. Browns Bay, at the tip of the peninsula, offers a beautiful beach, while there's also good brisk walk to be had out to neighbouring Skernaghan Point.

43. Go adventuring in The Gobbins and head to Whitehead after

The Gobbins is a cliff-face path on the east of Islandmagee. The cliffs are recognised for their rich birdlife, important geology and notable species - and the Gobbins, as a visitor attraction, has turned this area into a perfect spot for adventuring. The nearby town of Whitehead is worth a stop-in too, and, if you're feeling up to it, the walk out to Blackhead Lighthouse would top off the trip.

44. Take a day trip to Holywood or Bangor and a walk along the seafront

Holywood and Bangor are two of the most well-known seaside towns just outside of Belfast, and the seafront that connects them is as a beautiful a walk as you could ask for. Dotted with pristine beaches, great views and more than a few affluent houses along the way, it's the perfect place for a family walk.

45. Swim at Helen’s Bay

Helen's Bay, County Down in August (Justin Kernoghan)

Sea swimming has become another phenomenon to have emerged since lockdown, with Helen's Bay, midway between Holywood and Bangor, being the go-to spot for those who like to dip in.

46. Head to Whiterocks Beach

Situated off the Causeway Coastal Route near Portrush, Whiterocks Coastal Park is a stunning location, with limestone cliffs stretching from Curran Strand to Dunluce Castle. Great for sun-seekers, surfers, or just those who want a seaside dander.

47. Head to Benone Beach to surf

Benone Beach and views of the distant mountains in Donegal (@adamlutton)

Regarded as an Area of Outstanding Beautiful, Benone Beach stretches seven miles out to Magilligan Point. It's the perfect spot for surfers.

48. Take a day trip to Bushmills, Portstewart, Portrush or Castlerock

(Visit Belfast)

If you're in and around the North Coast area, there's plenty of great towns to visit. Each of the four mentioned above have their own quirks, unique history, great restaurants, attractions and (in Bushmills' case) an internationally renowned whiskey distillery.

49. Take the ferry to Rathlin Island

Church Bay Rathlin Island (North Coast Nature)

The ferry to Rathlin Island travels just six miles across the Sea of Moyle from Ballycastle. This island - the largest off the north coast - is six miles long, one mile wide, "L" shaped and home to a population of around 140 people. A short walk from the harbour is the Boathouse Visitor Centre where visitors can discover some of the exciting history, learn about present day island life and see some artefacts from shipwrecks around the island. Visitors can also enjoy many of the walks the Island has to offer, including along the shore to Mill Bay where you may see some of the resident seals basking or at play.

50. Visit the Ulster Folk Museum

Situated just outside of Cultra, the Ulster Folk Museum allows you to journey back in time to rediscover Ulster as it was over a century ago. Visitors can explore rolling hills of countryside and a bustling town filled with authentic period buildings. They can also see daily demonstrations of traditional crafts from basket weaving to printing, as well as meeting the costumed guides bringing it all to life.

51. Visit Crumlin Road Gaol

Crumlin Road Gaol (Google)

The Crumlin Road Gaol is a 19th century Grade A listed jail in north Belfast. A tour of this historic building will allow you to experience all aspects of the Gaol - from the tunnel linking the courthouse on the other side of the Crumlin Road to the hanging cell, Governor's office, hospital and graveyard.

52. Visit Botanic Gardens then walk around Belfast’s university area

Botanic Gardens in Belfast (Justin Kernoghan/Belfast Live)

Established in 1828 by the Belfast Botanic and Horticultural Society, Botanic Gardens serves as many things - it's home to the Palm House and the Tropical Ravine (well worth a visit), a meeting place for students and locals, and an occasional venue for festivals and events.

The Gardens are situated beside Queen's University's Lanyon Building, an architectural gem which sits at the heart of the city's university area.

53. Explore Belfast's Cathedral Quarter

Cobbled streets, street art everywhere and - most notably - bursting at the seems with bars, the Cathedral Quarter has become the home for nightlife in Belfast. You'll find no shortage of places to take a good 'gram pic either, with the likes of Commercial Court providing the perfect setting.

54. Explore Derry's Waterloo Street

The Mayor Alderman Graham Warke pictured in Waterloo Street with the new overhead lighting installation which has been switched on (Martin McKeown)

Called the 'nerve centre of Derry's nightlife', Waterloo Street is made up of traditional pubs, live music venues and clubs. You'll find no shortage of places to enjoy a tipple in here.

55. Go golfing on one of Northern Ireland's world-beating courses

It's well known by now that Ireland punches above its weight when it comes to golfing. In Northern Ireland, you'll find plenty of excellent courses to play on, including the Royal County Down (used for the Irish Open in 2015), and the Royal Portrush (used for the Open Championship in 2019 and ranked by Golf Magazine as the 12th best course in the world).

56. Get tickets to a GAA, rugby or football match

Ulster full-back Michael Lowry (INPHO/Laszlo Geczo)

Ireland, north and south, is lucky to have such active engagement with so many sports. In Northern Ireland, you'll find a thriving local GAA scene, a well-supported football scene centred around the IFA and the Northern Ireland national team, and a rugby scene bolstered by the achievements of Ulster Rugby. With the recent redevelopment of Windsor Stadium, and the upcoming redevelopment of Casement Park in west Belfast, we could be set to see these sports become a big selling point for Northern Ireland in the future.

57. Visit W5 and the Odyssey Promenade

The Odyssey (SSE Arena)

W5 is an award-winning Science & Discovery Centre located in the Odyssey Pavilion. Full of interactive exhibits, it has inspired kids and adults for two decades now. A walk along the Odyssey Promenade is a must as well.

58. Go to Todd’s Leap Activity Park

Voted the best activity centre in Northern Ireland for thrill-seeking experiences, Ballygawley-based Todd's Leap offers activities that will suit everyone from young kids, to families, right up to adults. Archery, clay pigeon shooting, off road hill rallying and more are all on the menu here.

59. Hike the Sperrin Mountains

Sperrin Mountains, Co Tyrone (Getty)

The Sperrin Mountains, stretching along the border of Tyrone and Derry, make up the largest mountain range in Northern Ireland. Walkers can expect undulating hills covered in heather, quiet valleys, boggy uplands and a land teeming with wildlife. There's 10 summits, meaning there's plenty of hikes you can choose from.

60. Visit the Ulster-American Folk Park

The Ulster American Folk Park is an open-air museum just outside Omagh. With more than 30 exhibit buildings to explore, the museum tells the story of three centuries of Irish emigration.

61. Visit Seamus Heaney HomePlace

Seamus Heaney HomePlace is an arts and literary centre in Bellaghy, Co Derry, celebrating the life and literature of the late poet and Nobel Laureate. The centre features exhibitions about the poet - and Irish literature - and also hosts events.

62. Visit Oxford Island as a gateway to Lough Neagh

Lough Neagh Discovery Centre (©NITB Photographic Library)

Oxford Island is located on the South-Eastern shores of Lough Neagh, Co Armagh. M uch of the area is designated as a National Nature Reserve due to the diversity and local importance of habitats such as reed beds, open water, wildlife ponds, forests and wildflower meadows. It's an excellent place for exploring, as well as showcasing the vastness of Lough Neagh.

63. Go kayaking at Ballintoy or walk along Whitepark Bay

Ballintoy Harbour (Reach plc)

The incredible rock formations of Ballintoy, located on the north coast, make it perfect for exploring. The area has become a popular spot for kayaking as well. The neighbouring beach of Whitepark Bay is also a stunning spot for a coastal walk.

64. Visit Derry's City Walls

Derry’s Walls (Photo By Justin Kernoghan/Belfast Live)

Derry is only remaining completely walled city in Ireland and one of the finest examples of Walled Cities in Europe. The Walls, which are approximately 1.5km in circumference, form a walkway around the inner city and provide a unique promenade to view the layout of the original town which still preserves its Renaissance Style street plan to this day.

65. Go to the Dark Hedges

A beautiful avenue of beech trees planted in the 18th century, the Dark Hedges have grown into possibly the most photographed attraction in Northern Ireland. The Hedges have also served as the Kingsroad in Game of Thrones.

66. Visit Mussendun Temple and Downhill Demense

Perched on the edge of a cliff, Mussendun Temple is another one of those Northern Irish attractions which just compels visitors to take excellent pictures. The walk to the temple allows you to explore the historic ruins along Downhill Demense as well.

67. Visit Ness Country Park

Waterfall at Ness Woods Country Park (Peter Davidson, @irish.peter.pics)

Ness Country Park is a vast park with mixed woodland, which extends along both sides of the Burntollet River. The Country Park contains meandering rivers, dense woodland trails, and a beautiful waterfall.

68. See Lough Erne by water taxi

The Fermanagh Lakelands are stunning in and of themselves, but a great way to truly explore them is by taking a water taxi or boat tour. You'll hear great stories and find hidden gems from the local drivers.

69. Visit Florence Court House

Surrounded by lush parkland and thick woodland, with Benaughlin mountain rising in the background, Florence Court enjoys a majestic countryside setting in West Fermanagh.

70. Visit Gosford Castle

Gosford Castle (Maison NI)

A strange architectural beauty, Gosford Castle is a country house built in the 19th century and situated in Gosford, a townland of Markethill in Co Armagh. The house was notably used as a filming location for Game of Thrones.

71. Visit the ruins of Dunseverick Castle

Perched on the Causeway coastline, Dunseverick Castle is an ancient royal site of the Dál Riada, a Gaelic kingdom from at least the 5th century AD. While the castle now stands in ruins, it's still a worthwhile site to visit - both for the stunning landscapes which surround it, and for the history of the place.

72. Go for walk up to Scrabo Tower

Sunrise at Scrabo Tower in Newtownards. (@travellernorthernireland)

Scrabo Tower stands at the top of Scrabo Hill, overlooking Strangford Lough, the Ards Peninsula and the whole of North Down. The tower, which was built in 1857, is one of Northern Ireland’s best known landmarks, offering spectacular views from the top.

73. Visit Mount Stewart and explore the Ards Peninsula

A neoclassical mansion, internationally celebrated gardens, and one of the nest National Trust locations you're likely to find anywhere in the UK, the modern-day maintenance of Mount Stewart is a success story and a gift to us all. The estate is located just south of Newtownards - on one of the most scenic stretches of the Ards Peninsula - so you can explore local towns such as Greyabbey when you make the journey.

74. Take a Murals Tour

(Getty Images)

Northern Ireland's murals offer a glimpse into the living history of the place. Tours operate in cities like Belfast and Derry, which take visitors into the stories behind some of the most famous Northern Irish murals.

75. Visit the Tayto Castle

Tayto Castle in Tandragee, Co Armagh, is where the terrific Tayto crisps are made.

The castle itself has a lively history. Over 500 years old, it was originally the home of the O’Hanlon clan, one of the mightiest and most powerful clans in all of Ireland. In 1619 King James I of England confiscated the castle from the O'Hanlon's because they took part in a rebellion against Hugh O'Neill in County Tyrone. The ruins of the property were then passed into the hands of other families and became the home of the Duke of Manchester in the 1800s.

In 1955 the castle was in need of repair and was bought by a visionary local businessman, Thomas Hutchinson. In 1956 he had the clever idea to make a new potato product called crisps, and started making Tayto crisps creating one of the world's best loved brands of crisps

76. Visit the Cushendun Caves

Cushendun Caves (Getty Images)

The coastal village of Cushendun is nestled at the mouth of Glendun, and situated between Ballycastle and Cushendall. The village is notable for its 400 million year old Caves, located on the rocky coastline, which came to greater attention when they featured prominently in Game of Thrones.

77. Visit Kilbroney Forest and hike up to Cloughmore Stone

Kilbroney Park, Rostrevor (Getty Images)

You couldn't ask for better views when visiting Kilbroney Forest Park, which lies between the Mourne Mountains and Carlingford Lough, just beyond the town of Rostrevor. You can explore the dense forest trails, or you can take a walk up to Cloughmore Stone and see the stunning views of the Lough from there.

78. Visit Silent Valley Reservoir and Spelga Dam

Silent Valley Reservoir, County Down (Michael Cooper)

Silent Valley Reservoir offers peace and solitude in amongst the peaks of the Mourne Mountains, while nearby Spelga Dam is an equally picturesque reservoir lake.

79. Visit the Armagh Astronomy Centre and Planetarium

The Armagh Observatory and Planetarium is Northern Ireland's leading astronomical research and education facility. In the Planetarium’s Digital Full Dome Theatre you can sit back, relax and experience the wonders of our Universe, while you can also take a tour of the night sky, and discover how the Centre's scientific research has impacted the field of astronomy.

80. Visit Antrim Castle Gardens

Antrim Castle Gardens is a 17th century Anglo-Dutch water garden, one of only three in the British Isles. The Castle Gardens are located in a beautiful riverside location close to Antrim town centre.

81. Visit Belfast's City Hall

One of Northern Ireland's most iconic buildings, Belfast's City Hall has been an imposing landmark in the city for over 100 years now. You can stroll or relax along the City Hall gardens, or you can take a tour of the stunning interior of the building itself.

82. Follow 'St Patrick’s Way' from Armagh to Downpatrick

Downpatrick (Getty)

Saint Patrick’s Way: The Pilgrims Walk is an 82 mile signed walking trail connecting key Christian Heritage sites between Armagh and Downpatrick. The walking trail connects key sites relating to Saint Patrick and Christian Heritage, taking you through some of Northern Ireland’s most spectacular scenic landmarks along the way. Not your everyday stroll through the park, but an important experience for those who identify as Christian or who want to learn more about Christianity on this island.

83. Climb Slemish Mountain

Slemish, historically called Slieve Mish, a mountain close to Ballymena (Liam McBurney/PA Wire)

Slemish Mountain, the legendary first known Irish home of Saint Patrick, is located in County Antrim. The mountain rises about 1500 feet above the surrounding plain, and it is actually the central core of an extinct volcano. The Mountain offers the chance for a steep, brisk hike, and a chance to learn about a formative part of Ireland's history.

84. Follow the C.S. Lewis Trail and explore east Belfast

Aslan in C.S Lewis Square, Belfast (Justin Kernoghan/Belfast Live)

Located in east Belfast, the C.S. Lewis trail starts at 'The Searcher' sculpture outside Holywood Arches Library on the Holywood Road and includes sites such as C.S. Lewis Square (containing seven Narnia inspired sculptures). The Trail is also a good jumping off point for exploring east Belfast, which has become a popular spot thanks to cafes, restaurants, bars, breweries and arts centres - such as the Banana Block Museum - having open up in recent years.

85. Visit The Dark Sky Park and Observatory

Combining the latest tech, from holographic installations to virtual reality headsets, to bespoke evening audio-visual shows, visitors to the Dark Sky Park, outside of Omagh will be able to explore our solar system and star-gaze using telescopes to view the night sky without light pollution.

86. Use the hydrobikes on Lough Erne

Hydrobikes by night at Erne Adventures (Terry McCartney)

A unique way of seeing Fermanagh's Lakelands, hydrobikes allow you to explore on the water, as well as providing a gentle total body workout. There's plenty of hydrobikes to hire in and around Enniskillen.

87. Headhunters Barbershop and Railway Museum

Enniskillen's Headhunters is now famous as the world's only barber shop and railway museum. (Headhunters Barber Shop & Railway Museum)

Based in Enniskillen, the quirky Headhunters Barber Shop & Railway Museum boasts one of the largest collections of Irish railway memorabilia on display. Starting at the reconstructed booking office, where the ticket collector invites you to step on board, your journey recreates railway travel through Fermanagh and the border counties until the closure of the lines in 1957, with lovingly created exhibits like the Station Master’s office, booking office and signal box.

88. Book a Boatyard Distillery Tour

The Boatyard Distillery is situated on the banks of Lough Erne and is Fermanagh's first legal distillery since 1890. You can visit the distillery on the banks of Lough Erne and get a glimpse into how they produce their spirits using the highest quality botanicals and ingredients.

89. Try the Enniskillen Taste Experience

Discover the unique Island town of Enniskillen with a guided walking tour, stopping at various locations along the way to sample an indulgent mix of food and drink. The Enniskillen Taste Experience will showcase the culinary delights that local businesses in the area have to offer.

90. Go to the C More Flying School

C-More Flying School is located in the heart of scenic Tyrone, outside of Omagh. The School offers trial flights in their Microlight planes, or for those who are feeling more adventurous they also offer lessons with our fully qualified instructors

91. Take a spa retreat

There's plenty of spa retreats throughout Northern Ireland, with places like the Galgorm, The Rabbit Hotel, Corick House, Lough Erne Resort, Killeavy Estate, Slieve Donard and the Salthouse hotel all offering packages.

92. Visit a Michelin Star restaurant

Ox Belfast (Elaine Hill Photography)

Northern Irish food has come a very long way in a short space of time, and we now boast three Michelin star restaurants, all within Belfast. Visit Deanes, Ox Belfast or The Muddler's Club to see why they've created such a buzz.

93. See a show or a play

The Grand Opera House on Great Victoria Street, Belfast in November 2021 (Google Maps)

Covid-times might make things a bit more difficult, but make no mistake - Northern Ireland is alive with theatre, shows and live music once again. There's plenty of incredible venues throughout the country, from the Millennium Forum Theatre in Derry to places like the Ulster Hall, SSE Arena, Waterfront Hall and many others in Belfast and beyond.

94. Try out the extensive Mountain Bike Trails in Tyrone

Areas like Gortin Glen, Davagh Forest and Blessingbourne Estate are brimming with activities, and offer some fantastic mountain bike trails for those who partake in the sport.

95. Visit Drum Manor Forest Park

Drum Manor Forest Park (Juliette Hagan)

Loved by locals, this eighteenth-century demesne has been developed into an expansive forest park. Colourful in spring and autumn with a shrub, butterfly and Japanese garden, arboretum, ponds and mixed woodlands, there are also marked trails, meaning lots for visitors to explore.

96. Visit Derry's Peace Bridge

Ever since its launch in 2011, the Peace Bridge has become an integral part of Derry's infrastructure and is held in high regard by locals and visitors alike for its architectural beauty, and its historical and symbolic significance.

97. Visit Free Derry Corner

Possibly the most photographed gable wall in Northern Ireland, Free Derry Corner became a symbol of the conflict in the Bogside, and has since morphed into a symbol of our shared history. It attracts thousands of visitors throughout the year, and continues to be used a symbol by today's activists.

98. Visit Museum of Free Derry

Museum of Free Derry (Google Street View)

The Museum of Free Derry re-opened its doors in Derry’s Bogside recently following an extensive redevelopment and offers a full multi-media exhibition on the civil rights and early conflict era in the city, including Battle of the Bogside, Internment, Bloody Sunday and Operation Motorman.

99. Visit The Guildhall

Sitting within reach of our famous 400-year-old Walls is one of the City’s most recognisable - and arguably one of the most stunning - landmarks, the Guildhall. It has been in the heart of city life since 1887 and the auburn brick building is the anchor for the buzzing Guildhall Square.

100. Visit The Tower Museum

Another Derry monument which provides fascinating insight into the city's history. The Tower Museum houses two permanent exhibitions. 1. "The Story of Derry" tells the colourful and dramatic history of the city from earliest prehistory to the present; 2. "An Armada Shipwreck - La Trinidad Valencera" tells the story of one of the largest ships in the Spanish Armada, La Trinidad Valencera, which sank off the Donegal Coast in 1588 and was rediscovered by divers from the City of Derry Sub-Aqua Club in 1971.

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