Things to Do Outside in Belfast, Northern Ireland

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.

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.

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.

With the highly recommended Lagan Boat Company, you can hop on board to experience the world’s only guided Titanic boat tour. Learn about the city’s maritime heritage, industry and port, as well as the story of the famously sunken RMS Titanic, built here in Belfast. Sail through the docklands by the Titanic Museum and Quarter as you soak up some history and fabulous views. Tours take one hour and cost £12 per adult. Private tours are available. Book through its website.

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.

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.