7 Day Northern Ireland Road Trip (Belfast, Antrim Coast, Derry + Down)

Welcome to my tried-and-tested 7 day Northern Ireland Road Trip that takes in everywhere from the Antrim Coast and Derry to the Mournes and Belfast City!

This itinerary is part of my 7 days in Ireland series where you’ll find 7 different ways to explore Ireland over 1 week!

Itinerary overview:

• Day 1: Belfast City. Today depends on your arrival time (stay in Belfast)
• Day 2: More of Belfast (Belfast)
• Day 3: 1st 1/2 of Antrim Coast (Ballycastle)
• Day 4: 2nd 1/2 of Antrim Coast (Derry)
• Day 5: Derry City (Derry)
• Day 6: Sperrins and beyond (Newcastle)
• Day 7: Depends when you need to leave. Ideally, the Mournes (Newcastle)

Northern Ireland itinerary overview

In a perfect world, you’d have 7 full days for this Northern Ireland road trip. In reality, day 1 and day 7 will likely be travel-heavy, so you need to plan with that in mind.

1. For those of you arriving by plane

Ideally you’ll be flying into one of the airports in Belfast, but if you land in Dublin or Shannon, consider doing:

• Dublin: Spend 1 day in Dublin to give yourself time to relax after the flight. On day 2, get up early and get to Belfast, following the day 1 route in the guide below. Days 3 – 6 remain the same. On day 7, head back to Dublin and fly home.
• Shannon: I’d generally advise against trying this route if you’re flying in/out of Shannon as you lose a good day driving to/from the airport. Keep days 1 – 5 the same. On day 6, head to Enniskillen. On day 7, you’ve a 3-hour drive back to Shannon.

2. For those living in Ireland

• Where to start: Begin from whichever end is closest (Belfast City or Derry)
• Your day 1: Let drive time dictate the pace. Long drive to start point = handy day 1. Short drive = more time to explore
• Your day 7: If home is far, travel straight back and trim the itinerary earlier (see flight-based scenarios above)

3. Getting around Northern Ireland

You’ll need a car for this Northern Ireland itinerary. See my guide to renting a car in Ireland and remember, if you rent a car in the Republic, remember that you pay an automatic fee each time you enter/leave ROI/NI.

Day 1: Belfast

My map above will give you a sense of how you’ll spend your 2 days in Belfast. Now, as I said before, you need to tackle day 1 based on your own travel arrangements.

Adjust the first day based on what time you arrive in the city.

Where to stay in Belfast

• Budget: Vagabonds Hostel (in the city centre) and Amica Guesthouse (short bus/drive from the city centre)
• Mid-range: Ten Square Hotel and Maldron Hotel Belfast City (both are super central) 
• Luxury: The Fitzwilliam and The Merchant (both gorgeous, high-end hotels at the heart of the action) 

How to get around

Before reviewing the itinerary, it’s essential to consider your transportation options in Belfast since some attractions are spread out. Here are 2 options worth considering:

• Option A: Get the hop-on-hop-off bus (it’s around €29 for a 2 day pass)
• Option B: Use a combination of public transport and taxis/Ubers

Day 1: The best of Belfast

Day one of my Northern Ireland itinerary starts with the exceptional Black Cab Tour and then takes you around the lower half of the city.

If you’re still mulling over hotels/B&Bs, see my guide on where to stay in Belfast (contains the best areas/neighbourhoods).

1. The Black Taxi Tour

Start your first day in Belfast with one of the Black Cab tours (there are several operators, but I always suggest the Political Taxi Tour).

During the 1-hour experience, a local driver shares insight into the city’s complex and often turbulent history.

You’ll hear about the Troubles, uncover lesser-known stories, and see the murals along The Falls Road and The Shankill Road – two areas still separated by the Peace Wall.

The guides are balanced, giving you the space to draw your own conclusions about the city’s past.

2. The Grand Opera House

The Political Taxi Tour drops you on Great Victoria Street. From there, it’s just a short 2-minute walk to the striking Grand Opera House.

Even if opera isn’t your thing, the building itself is worth seeing. Opened in 1895, the Opera House has survived everything from World War II to the Troubles.

Designed by Frank Matcham, it’s widely regarded as one of Belfast’s standout architectural landmarks. Tours are limited, so it’s best to take it in from the outside before moving on.

3. Belfast City Hall

Belfast City Hall, which opened in 1906, is a 5-minute stroll from the Opera House and it’s well worth exploring.

There’s a 1-hour, £6 tour here that runs Monday to Friday (11am, 2pm, 3pm, and 4pm) and on weekends (12 noon, 2pm, 3pm, and 4pm). 

Tour Highlights:

• Grand Staircase: Climb the impressive staircase that sets the tone for the building
• Lord Mayors’ Portraits: Learn the stories behind Belfast’s former Lord Mayors
• Robing Room: See the civic regalia, including the Lady Mayoress’ jewels
• Council Chamber: Step inside where City Council meetings take place and view historic artefacts

4. Enjoy the finest Irish fare at Holohan’s

Right – time for food. On your way to the next stops of your first day, you’ll pass one of the best places to eat in Belfast.

Holohan’s Pantry is about a 20-minute walk from City Hall and it rarely disappoints.

While they serve plenty of traditional Irish dishes like Seafood Chowder, it’s the lunchtime boxty (Irish potato pancake) that keeps drawing me back.

You can choose from fillings like roast chicken, braised beef or solid vegetarian options.

5. The Ulster Museum

From Holohan’s, it’s a 5-minute walk to the excellent (and free) Ulster Museum. Inside, you’ll explore Northern Ireland’s story – both ancient and modern.

Expect everything from fine art and archaeology to mummies, dinosaurs and meteorites.

There are also strong exhibits covering ancient Ireland and the Troubles. Many people visiting Belfast skip this – those who don’t are always glad they made the time.

6. The Botanic Gardens

The final stop today is the nearby Botanic Gardens. Located right beside the Ulster Museum, it’s another free attraction.

Established in 1828 (with the Palm House opening in 1895), the gardens offer a welcome break from the city centre.

You’ll find Victorian-era structures like the Palm House and the Tropical Ravine, both reflecting the prosperity of 19th-century Belfast.

7. Pints and live music

Day 1 of my Northern Ireland road trip was busy, yet you’ll have moved at a nice, relaxed pace without having to venture too far.

Head back to your accommodation (see my guide to the best hotels in Belfast) and chill for a bit.

When you’re ready, I’m going to recommend that you head in towards the Cathedral Quarter (you’ll see it by day on day 2).

• For food: The Mourne Seafood Bar (great for fish), Coppi (top-notch Italian) and Bank Square Brasserie (great for a mix of everything).
• For drink: There are some great pubs with live music in Belfast – Maddens (finest Guinness in the city) and McHughs (trad pub with live sessions) are both great!

Day 2: More of Belfast City

Day 2 of my 7 day Northern Ireland itinerary takes in the best of the upper half of the city.

Today, you’ll explore the Cathedral Quarter, take the Crumlin Road Gaol tour and see all the Titanic Quarter has to offer.

1. St Anne’s Cathedral

Day 2 begins at the impressive St. Anne’s Cathedral on Donegall Street. This Church of Ireland cathedral is known for its Romanesque Revival design.

The foundation stone was laid on September 6th, 1899. Construction took place in phases over more than 80 years, incorporating an earlier church from 1776 into the final structure.

The cathedral opens from 10:30, so you can enjoy a slower start if needed. Admission is around £2.50 and highlights include:

• Coventry Cross of Nails: A symbol of suffering and reconciliation, created from medieval nails and presented in 1958
• Regimental Chapel: Consecrated in 1981, featuring memorials and artefacts linked to military history
• The Baptistry: Topped with a mosaic ceiling made from 150,000 pieces of coloured glass
• Tomb of Lord Carson: The only tomb inside the cathedral, marking the resting place of the prominent Unionist politician

2. Coffee and the Cathedral Quarter

A 2-minute walk from the cathedral brings you to Neighbourhood Cafe, home to some of the best coffee in Belfast (they also serve a solid brunch).

Grab your coffee to-go and set off for a wander. The Cathedral Quarter is packed with some of the Belfast street art.

Follow this route I’ve outlined and you’ll pass the striking Merchant Hotel and the ever-lively Commercial Court. Along the way, you’ll take in plenty of murals and artwork.

3. Crumlin Road Gaol

From the Cathedral Quarter, it’s about a 20-minute walk to Crumlin Road Gaol, and it’s worth doing on foot if you’ve the time.

Open for 150 years, this is the last remaining Victorian-era prison in Northern Ireland and it once housed inmates from all walks of life (book tickets in advance!).

Constructed between 1843 and 1846, it replaced the old county jail in Carrickfergus. The guided tour takes you through the underground tunnel linking the gaol to the courthouse while sharing stories from its darker chapters.

Allow around 1.5 hours for your visit. Afterwards, you can grab lunch at Cuffs Bar & Grill inside the gaol.

4. The Titanic Quarter (via the G2 Glider)

When you finish up at the gaol, take the 20-minute walk to Custom House Square, which is where you can hop on the G2 Glider.

You can get it from here and it leaves every 10-15 minutes and it’ll take you to the Titanic Quarter in 5 minutes or so (buy your tickets at the stop).

Once there, head straight to Titanic Belfast and begin your visit (booking in advance is strongly advised).

Plan for about 1.5 hours. The experience is immersive – you’ll see, hear and even smell elements tied to the Titanic story.

When you’re done, make the short 3-minute walk to the SS Nomadic (included with your ticket), the vessel that ferried passengers out to the Titanic from the mainland.

5. An evening in Belfast

You can catch the G2 Glider back to the city centre from the Titanic Quarter (it departs from here).

Return to your accommodation, freshen up, and then head back out for your final evening in Belfast.

• The best pubs in Belfast: Whites Tavern, the Sunflower, the Duke of York and Kelly’s Cellars
• The best restaurants in Belfast: James St, Darcy’s and The Ginger Bistro

Day 3: The Antrim Coast (to Ballycastle)

The next 2 days of my Northern Ireland road trip see you explore the Antrim Coast, which is home to many of Northern Ireland’s top attractions.

The Antrim Coast road starts in Belfast City and ends in Derry, stretching for around 185km/115-miles. You’re going to spend a night in Ballycastle before heading on to Derry for two nights.

Where to stay in Ballycastle

• Budget: Beechwood Lodges (guesthouse that’s minutes from the beach, but in a quiet location)
• Mid-range: Marine Hotel (comfy and very central), Glass Island (exceptional guesthouse in town)
• Higher-end: The Salthouse Hotel (beautiful hotel outside the town centre)

1. Carrickfergus Castle

The first stop along the Antrim Coast Road is the imposing Carrickfergus Castle. You’ll find it in the town of Carrickfergus, right on the shores of Belfast Lough.

It was built in 1177 by John de Courcy, an Anglo-Norman knight who used it as his base until 1204. He didn’t exactly depart voluntarily – he was forced out by Norman Hugh de Lacy.

The castle survived centuries of conflict, from King John’s siege to later military use, and it remains one of Northern Ireland’s best-preserved medieval strongholds.

2. The Black Arch

The Black Arch isn’t a stop – it’s a short tunnel you’ll pass through as you follow the Antrim Coast Road, similar to the ones you see along the Ring of Kerry.

Here, the road hugs the shoreline, with steep cliffs rising on the opposite side. As you near Larne, roughly 5 minutes from Chaine Tower, the cliffs cut across the road and form this narrow passage.

There’s nowhere to pull in, but driving through it is part of the fun – coastal tunnels like this are always a memorable part of a scenic spin.

3. Glenariff Forest Park

The next stop is about a 30-minute drive inland, taking you away from the coast and into the Glens of Antrim.

A morning spent in Glenariff Forest Park is one of my favourite things to do in Ireland. You’ll find waterfalls, forest trails and one of the best walks in Antrim.

If you’re up for stretching the legs, the 8.9km circular trail takes around 2–3 hours and delivers consistently strong scenery throughout.

4. Cushendall Beach

Cushendall Beach is a 15-minute drive from Glenariff and sits directly in front of the town, stretching roughly 250 metres along the shoreline.

Cushendall combines sea views, traditional pubs and scenic surroundings where the Glens roll down towards the water.

It’s a handy place to pause for food (try Harry’s) or coffee (Cafe Cova is a good shout).

5. Lunch and caves in Cushendun

The next stop on the Antrim Coast is Cushendun – a short 10-minute drive from Cushendall.

When you arrive, park up and head for a wander around the town. There are two main attractions here – the beach and the caves.

Cushendun Beach is a lovely sandy bay where you can wet your toes, if you fancy. Cushendun Caves, which are one of several Game of Thrones filming locations in Ireland, are reasonably easy to walk down to and are worth a look.

For lunch, head to Mary McBrides – it’s one of the smallest pubs in the country!

6. The Torr Head scenic route

The Torr Head Scenic Route is the alternative drive towards Ballycastle, and it sticks tightly to the coastline, climbing steeply along narrow roads high above the sea.

If you’re uneasy behind the wheel, or driving something large like a campervan, it’s best avoided.

From Cushendun, it’s around 20 minutes to Torr Head itself. There’s a short 15-minute walk to the viewpoint and, on a clear day, you’ll see Scotland across the water.

Warning: Any nervous drivers following this Northern Ireland itinerary should skip this route as the roads are high and narrow!

7. Murlough Bay

After Torr Head, continue for about 20 minutes to Murlough Bay. Follow the narrow lane to the clifftop car park. From there, you can enjoy the views from above or walk down towards sea level.

Murlough Bay can easily eat up hours, so it’s better suited to those following a 2-day Causeway Coastal Route itinerary, rather than this one.

It’s remote, peaceful and delivers raw, untamed coastal scenery.

8. The Fair Head Cliffs

The Fair Head Cliffs are about 15 minutes from Murlough Bay and rise an impressive 196 metres (643 feet) above the sea below.

Several marked walking trails begin at the car park, including the 2.6-mile (4.2km) Perimeter Walk.

Many sections run close to the cliff edge, so take care – especially in strong winds or poor visibility. You’ll need a good 2 hours here.

Note: Unless you’re after a good walk, skip Fair Head. Many of the best views of the cliffs are visible from afar!

9. Ballycastle for the evening

Night 3 of this Northern Ireland itinerary finishes up in Ballycastle, around a 10-minute drive from Fair Head.

Ballycastle was once a Viking settlement and the original wall from their harbour can still be seen to this day. Check-in to your accommodation and then head into town.

Food in Ballycastle

• Anzac Bar & Restaurant: My go-to. Beautifully presented dishes with good mix of seafood, steaks and pastas
• The Salthouse: Outside of town, but great views and great grub
• Central Bar: Pub grub at its finest

My favourite pubs in Ballycastle

• Tessie’s: Traditional pub that does very good Guinness
• House of McDonnell: Lovely, old-school interior, trad music and a roaring fire await
• O’Connor’s: Always a friendly buzz in here, cosy interior and live tunes
• Boyd Arms: The very definition of traditional – live suppin’ pints in someone’s living room

Day 4: The Antrim Coast (to Derry)

Day 4 of my Northern Ireland road trip is a busy one, but it’ll likely be the most memorable day of this itinerary for many of you.

You’ll leave Ballycastle and follow the coast to Derry City, taking in some of Antrim’s main landmarks along the way.

Where to stay in Derry

• Budget: Chamberlain House (very central) 
• Mid-range: Shipquay Boutique Hotel (overlooks city walls)
• Luxury: The Ebrington Hotel (opulent accommodation a short walk from centre)

1. Kinbane Castle

Kinbane Castle is one of the most dramatically positioned castles in Northern Ireland, just a 5-minute drive from Ballycastle.

Calling its setting dramatic almost undersells it. Built in 1547 on a narrow rock promontory known as Kinbane Head, which juts out into the sea, the castle sits surrounded by striking coastal scenery.

Rugged cliffs, exposed ruins and the crashing Atlantic combine to create a place that sticks with you long after you’ve left.

2. Carrick-a-Rede

A 10-minute drive from Kinbane brings you to the Carrick-a-rede rope bridge – one of Antrim’s most photographed sites.

If heights aren’t your thing, take note: the bridge hangs 25 feet above the cold waters below.

The original rope crossing was put in place in 1755, linking the mainland to Carrick-a-Rede Island so local fishermen could cast their nets from the better vantage point offshore.

If you’re planning to cross today, you’ll be glad to know the modern bridge is sturdy and reinforced with wire.

3. Ballintoy Harbour

Ballintoy Harbour is less than 10 minutes from Carrick-a-rede and is another filming location used in Game of Thrones.

During summer, it can be very busy and the small car park fills quickly, so keep that in mind.

The coastline here is distinctive, with rocky outcrops and wide views, and it’s a good place for a short wander to stretch the legs.

It’s also popular with divers and snorkellers, who access the water from the beach, the rocks or the small cove to the east.

4. Dunseverick Castle

Another clifftop ruin, Dunseverick Castle, sits about 8 minutes from Ballintoy. Legend says Saint Patrick visited here during the 5th century.

According to local lore, he came to baptise a man who later became the Bishop of Ireland.

If you want to see it up close, there’s a small car park nearby and a short walk brings you to the remains (see my map above).

5. The Giant’s Causeway

Next up – around 10 minutes away – is a place steeped in legend, where Fionn MacCumhaill is said to have built a pathway to challenge a Scottish rival.

Officially designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, the Giant’s Causeway formed 50 – 60 million years ago due to volcanic activity.

What remains is one of the most unusual landscapes in Europe, often referred to as the “8th wonder of the world”.

As you explore, you’ll see part of the estimated 40,000 interlocking basalt columns that make up this remarkable natural formation. I’ve created the map above for you, so you know what to look out for!

6. Lunch and the Old Bushmills Distillery

The Old Bushmills Distillery is roughly 10 minutes inland from the Giant’s Causeway.

The company behind Bushmills was established in 1784, and the distillery has operated continuously since being rebuilt after a fire in 1885.

It survived both World Wars and changed ownership several times before being sold to Diageo in 2005 for £200 million, later transferring to Jose Cuervo.

The guided tour lasts about 40 minutes and gives a solid overview of the distillery’s history and production process.

When you finish up, head for a bite-to-eat in the very cosy Bushmills Inn – it was originally a coaching inn waaay back in the 1600s!

7. Dunluce Castle

The striking ruins of Dunluce Castle – about 8 minutes from Bushmills – sit perched above jagged cliffs.

Like many Irish castles, it comes with its own legend. It’s said that in 1639, during a storm, part of the kitchen collapsed into the sea below.

Only the kitchen boy survived, supposedly saved by sheltering in a corner of the room. You can explore the castle grounds or simply admire it from the nearby viewpoints.

8. Mussenden Temple

Leave Dunluce and take the 30-minute drive to Derry’s Mussenden Temple. This is the final major coastal stop before reaching Derry City.

Set within Downhill Demesne, it stands dramatically on a 120-foot cliff overlooking the sea. Built in 1785, its design was inspired by the Temple of Vesta in Tivoli, near Rome.

The setting is theatrical, with wide views across the beach and Atlantic beyond. I’ve made you a map above to save for when you’re there!

9. Derry for the night

Day 4 of my Northern Ireland itinerary was a busy one, so it’s time to chill! Head back to your accommodation or tackle the rest of the city walls if you fancy it.

When you’re ready, here are some food and pub recommendations:

• Food: Browns Bonds Hill (for fine dining) or Badgers (good quality pub grub)
• Pubs: Peader O’Donnel’s (trad bar with live music) and the Dungloe Bar (great food, Guinness and tunes)

Day 5: Derry City

Day 5 of this 7 day Northern Ireland road trip sees you explore Derry City – the only completely walled city in Ireland.

Despite its turbulent past, the city now stands as a testament to history, brimming with culture, heritage, and character.

1. A very enlightening tour

As was the case with Belfast’s Black Cab Tour, the most effective way to understand Derry’s past is by taking a guided tour.

This tour is one I’ve recommended for years and the feedback has consistently been excellent.

In roughly 1.5 hours, you’ll gain a clearer picture of the events of Bloody Sunday while exploring the powerful murals of the Bogside.

You’ll also get an overview of the events surrounding the partition of Ireland and how it led to the division of the 6 counties of Northern Ireland.

2. The Museum of Free Derry

When the walking tour wraps up, you’re just a short walk from the Museum of Free Derry.

Opened in 2007, it focuses on the period between 1968 and 1972 – one of the most turbulent chapters in the city’s history.

The story is told through the voices and experiences of those who lived through it, making it both personal and powerful.

For anyone unfamiliar with Derry’s recent history, this museum leaves a lasting impression.

3. St. Columb’s Cathedral

St Columb’s Cathedral is one of Derry’s oldest landmarks, completed in 1633.

Its 221-foot tower shapes the skyline, and much of the structure remains true to its 17th-century origins.

The spire was added later, in 1821. Constructed from the same stone as the city walls, the cathedral contains a substantial collection of historic artefacts and is well worth visiting if you’ve an interest in architecture or local history.

4. Lunch then the Derry City Walls

There are plenty of good food options in Derry, but Hidden City Cafe is where I tend to return most often (it’s about a 2-minute walk from St Columb’s).

Tucked within the historic walls, this ethical café serves locally sourced dishes, with everything from breakfast burritos to vegan teriyaki seitan on offer.

After lunch, join the Derry City Walls at Bishop’s Gate (here on Maps). Standing for over 400 years, these are the only fully intact city walls in Ireland and symbolise endurance and resilience.

Built during the Plantation of Ulster, they famously withstood the Siege of Derry in 1689 and were later repaired after damage sustained during the Troubles.

Walking the mile-long circuit, you’ll pass historic gates and cannons, including the well-known Roaring Meg.

5. The Derry Girls mural

Leave the walls at St Columb’s Hall (here on Maps) and you’ll find the Derry Girls mural beside Badgers Bar, just a short walk away.

If you’re unfamiliar with the show, Derry Girls is one of the most successful Irish TV shows of recent years.

Set in 1990s Derry during the closing years of the Troubles, it follows five teenagers navigating school, family life and political tension – with plenty of humour along the way.

6. The Tower Museum

Next up is the Tower Museum, about a 5-minute walk from the mural.

It’s home to Derry’s only open-air viewing platform, offering panoramic views across the city. Inside, you’ll find several engaging exhibitions, including:

• The Story of Derry: A chronological journey through the city’s past, from its earliest days to modern times
• An Armada Shipwreck: The story of La Trinidad Valencera, a Spanish Armada vessel wrecked off the Donegal coast in 1588
• The Derry Girls experience: Props from the show, including Erin’s diary and Sister Michael’s chair

7.  The Guildhall

Directly opposite the Tower Museum stands The Guildhall, one of Derry’s standout buildings. Completed in 1887, this neo-Gothic structure sits just beyond the city walls near the Peace Bridge.

Following a £9.5 million restoration in 2013, it now houses exhibitions and public spaces. Inside you’ll find:

• An exhibition detailing the Plantation and its legacy
• Interpretation panels explaining the building’s architectural features
• Cultural spaces and a café

8. The Peace Bridge

The Peace Bridge, opened in 2011, sits beside the Guildhall. Stretching across the River Foyle, it links the former army barracks at Ebrington with the city centre.

Designed to symbolically and physically connect communities long divided, it brings the largely unionist east bank closer to the largely nationalist west.

Walk across its sweeping curve for wide views of the city skyline or admire its modern design from the river below.

9. Derry for the night

You’ve had a long aul day of exploring so it’s time to chill. Head back to your accommodation or tackle the rest of the city walls if you fancy it.

When you’re ready, here are some food and pub recommendations for night 5 of this 7 day Northern Ireland itinerary:

• Food: Browns Bonds Hill (for fine dining) or Badgers (good quality pub grub)
• Pubs: Peader O’Donnel’s (trad bar with live music) and the Dungloe Bar (great food, Guinness and tunes)

Day 6: Derry to Newcastle via the Sperrins

Day 6 of my Northern Ireland itinerary requires a fair bit of driving, however, you won’t have had to drive at all the previous day.

You’ll be leaving Derry today and heading to Newcastle via the Sperrins. Let’s dive in!

Where to stay in Newcastle

• Budget: Grasmere House (lovely guesthouse a short walk from the centre)
• Mid-range: Avoca Hotel (boutique hotel right on the seafront), Enniskeen Country House (old-world style hotel just outside of town)
• High-end: Slieve Donard (Seaside spa hotel with outstanding sea views)

1. The Sperrins scenic drive

When you leave Derry, aim for this point – it’s around a 35-minute drive from the city.

Instead of sticking to the main A6, you’ll nip across the B47 (Barnanagee Road) and climb into open moorland.

The landscape here is broad and exposed, with rounded peaks like Sawel (678m) and Meenard rising from rolling blanket bog.

Stretching across Counties Tyrone and Derry, the Sperrins are a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and this drive gives you a brief but rewarding taste of them!

Important: Skip this route entirely if the weather is even slightly poor. The road is narrow, exposed and can become hard to see in mist or rain!

2. Lunch and the Game of Thrones Studio Tour

Just under a 2-hour drive from the Sperrins brings you to the Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Banbridge.

This is where much of the hit HBO series was actually filmed. Inside, you’ll walk through original sets, see authentic costumes, props and weapons, and get a behind-the-scenes look at how the show was created.

Even if you’re only a casual fan, the scale of the production is impressive. Allow around 2–3 hours for the full experience.

When you’re finished, head next door to Salt Kitchen at The Boulevard. It’s one of the better lunch spots in the area!

3. Tollymore Forest Park or Castlewellan

You’re about 40 minutes from two excellent forest parks at the foot of the Mournes. If you only have time for one, I’d strongly recommend picking Tollymore Forest Park.

The Shimna River runs through it, crossed by 18th-century stone bridges, with woodland trails and views towards the mountains. The best walk here is the 5.2km River Trail (1.5–2 hours).

Castlewellan is more open and activity-focused. There’s a large lake, the Victorian castle, mountain bike trails and the Peace Maze (one of the world’s largest hedge mazes).

4. Newcastle for the evening

Day 6 of this Northern Ireland itinerary comes to an end a 15-minute drive from the forests in the seaside town of Newcastle.

Check-in to your accommodation and then head off into the town:

Food in Newcastle

• Villa Vinci: A hop from the beach, they dish up perfectly cooked steak, seafood, pasta, salads and pizza
• Quinns Bar: Started out as a 1920s pub-store with a grocer’s at the front and a pub at the rear. Great pub grub (burgers, stir-fry, roast dinners etc)
• Great Jones: A contemporary “warehouse” style restaurant serving up modern Irish classics with a twist

Great pubs in Newcastle

• Macken’s: Dating to 1805, this harbour pub boasts trad music, pints and top-notch seafood
• O’Hares: A traditional Irish pub with a stunning interior, open fire and snug feel
• The Maghera Inn: 5-minute drive from town centre so grab a taxi. 200+ year-old pub that you’ll find hard to leave

Day 7: The Mournes

So, as was the case with day 1, day 7 of this Northern Ireland road trip will depend entirely upon you and your schedule.

If today is head-home-day, then hit the road. If you have all of day 7 to explore, here are some options:

• Itinerary 1: If you want a hike (climb Slieve Donard in the morning and spend the afternoon at Dundrum Castle, Murlough Beach and Down Cathedral)
• Itinerary 2: If you want to avoid the hike (in the morning, drive around to Rostrevor and do the walk to Kodak Corner. In the afternoon, visit the Silent Valley and then head back to Newcastle)

And that, folks, is a wrap on my 7 day Northern Ireland itinerary! Have questions? Ask away in the comments below! Cheers!

Explore beyond this Northern Ireland road trip

I’d always recommend weighing up different options when it comes do deciding what to do in Ireland for a week!

You’ve already seen my Northern Ireland itinerary, now here are some other options (you can see each on my map above):

• • West of Ireland itinerary
  • Southwest of Ireland itinerary
  • West Coast of Ireland road trip
  • Donegal and Northern Ireland itinerary
  • Fly into Dublin and out of Shannon road trip