Things To Do Outside In Belfast Northern Ireland

Belfast boasts a wonderful mixture of history, nature and thrilling activities – all of which are best experienced outside. Wandering the cobbled streets to view the monuments and landmarks makes for a fabulous afternoon of history and culture, while the parks are beautiful and unusual, perfect for a picnic. Here are Culture Trip’s favourite things to do outside in Northern Ireland’s capital city.

1. Hit the park

Botanical Garden, Park

The Palm House at the Botanic Gardens, Belfast. Image shot 2007. Exact date unknown.

Spend a few hours in one of Belfast’s unusual parks. A favourite is the Botanic Gardens, with its 1840s greenhouse filled with tropical plants and birds of paradise. Any trip to Northern Ireland should also include a visit to Cave Hill Country Park, which begins at Belfast Castle. You can enjoy afternoon tea in its gardens, and then hike the trail through Cave Hill to its peak for unrivalled views of the city. Cave Hill is situated in Newtownabbey, a short car or bus ride out of town.

2. Tour the monuments and landmarks

Building, Memorial

The Prince Albert memorial clock at Barnstaple, Devon, England.

Belfast is rich in history and culture, and the monuments and landmarks scattered throughout the city reflect this. The stunning architecture dates back centuries, and you’ll be amazed at buildings such as the Belfast City Hall and Queen’s University. Monuments, including the beloved Albert Memorial Clock and Knockagh Monument, nod to the city’s historical grounding. All are within walking distance of each other, so grab a tourist map and set your own trail. Read about the backgrounds of each with our handy summaries.

3. Dine al fresco

Restaurant, Italian

Belfast is known for its excellent restaurants and produce. Some may even argue that food is always better when it’s enjoyed outside, in the sunshine, with lovely views and a buzzing atmosphere. Try Cutters Wharf on the River Lagan for waterside dining, Deanes at Queens for fabulous vistas of the city’s architecture (such as Queen’s University) or the Perch Rooftop Bar for high-up chilled vibes.

5. Get sporty

Sports Center

If you’re looking for a rip-roaring afternoon outside, join Northern Ireland’s leading providers of outdoor adventure activities, Bryson LaganSports. Experienced instructors will take you on a thrill ride, on land or water. It offers wilderness survival experiences, battlezone archery (the first of its kind in Northern Ireland), kayaking and canoeing, dragon boating and even water zorbing. Yes, that’s rolling through the water in a giant inflatable bubble. All activities are just £29 per adult, but the wilderness survival experience ranges in price from £49 to £100 depending on the package.

6. Take a bike tour

Cathedral, Church, Historical Landmark

Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK. 24 July 2017. UK weather: Visitors on a walking tour on the Slipway in Titanic Quarter enjoy sunshine and a temperature of 24C. The cruise liner Celebrity Silhouette can be seen in the background. Credit J Orr/Alamy Live Ne

This activity is more fun than taxing, as it’s a guided tour on two wheels. It’s £30 per person for a 3hr loop of Belfast’s top attractions, such as St Anne’s Cathedral, the Titanic’s Dock and the famous Queen’s University. For more daring souls, pay £50 per person for a 4hr tour starting at the main city sights, going through the Lagan riverside and Lagan Valley Regional Park and finishing at award-winning Hilden Brewing Company. Here, you’ll sample craft beers and take a leisurely lunch, all included in the ticket price.

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