Northern Ireland Road Map

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If you’re visiting Ireland without a car during this trip (although I highly recommend it for this itinerary), there are plenty of tours from Belfast that will take you here. Even though I’ve been all over Ireland, I especially like the northern part. I have a soft spot for that area because my grandfather is from there, but it’s also one of the most beautiful places in the country. Almost everywhere you drive, you can see the ocean on one side. A Northern Ireland road trip is something I always recommend that people add to their itinerary. When travelling, it’s always worth having the right currency on you, although it’s generally best just to pay by card. EU membership This area is one of the most stunning places to go in Northern Ireland. It’s a quaint little coastal village in County Antrim that you’ll want to stop at on your Northern Ireland road trip. The entire town is in a conservation area that the National Trust manages.

While you can’t stay here, there are plenty of castle hotels in Ireland where you can book a room at. Another welcoming village to visit on your Northern Ireland road trip is Bushmills. You’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve driven into a time-traveling portal as you enter the village, as it hasn’t fully joined the 21st century yet. However, this is what gives it all of its charm. In Northern Ireland, one can explore some of the most remarkable beaches of Europe. The beaches make a mark for their striking coastline formations and sand dunes. These include:- While the drive through Northern Ireland is an experience in itself, there are so many amazing places to stop and explore as you pass them by. If you’re looking for where to visit in Northern Ireland, we’ve compiled a spectacular guide of Irish landmarks, viewpoints, and other important places to see. In the Republic of Ireland, the highest category of road is a highway, indicated by the prefix M followed by one or two digits as you can see in Ireland highway map. The motorway network has been expanded extensively since the 1990s, through construction of new motorways and redesignation of existing motorway-standard dual-carriageway sections of National Primary routes. The first motorway section in the state was the M7 Naas by-pass, which opened in 1983. As of 2009, all motorways in Ireland are part of, or form, national primary roads. At the end of 2004 there were 192 km (119 mi) of motorway in the Republic and 286 km (178 mi) of dual-carriageway. This was extended, by the end of 2005, to 247 km (153 mi) of motorway and 297 km (185 mi) of dual-carriageway. By the end of December 2009 there were 667 km (414 mi) of motorway in Ireland, with 385 kilometres (239 mi) under construction.

Book one of the hotels in Bushmills and spend some time exploring the streets as well as the beauty surrounding the village when you’re there. 13. Belfast

The rugged, raw elemental beauty of the Causeway Coastal Route truly captures the thrill of an adventure in Northern Ireland. Maybe it’s the sheer breadth and beauty of its landscape. Perhaps it’s the mythical stories, shaped and inspired by the dramatic coastline. It's certainly in the warm and hospitable people you will meet along the way. Make sure to book your car rental in advance! I love using Discover Cars when I travel. 5. The Gobbins Cliff Path Step out of the car and stretch your legs with an outdoor experience at Roe Valley Country Park. This large and open woodland area offers so much green space and fresh air, so it’s a must on any Ireland road trip. The Troubles was the 30-year sectarian conflict in Northern Ireland that saw a huge amount of violence. Over 3,500 people lost their lives. Today, visitors can stop by and explore the castle and its brilliant walled garden. The Woodlands Walk also offers a birds-eye view of the garden and plenty of opportunities to view wildlife. Sneak a peek at the resident Shorthorn cows, squirrels, rabbits, and beautiful flowers and plants.

Dunluce Castle to Derry-Londonderry 

I’ve no doubt that we’ve unintentionally left out some brilliant things to do in Northern Ireland from the guide above.

Take a break from scenic drives in Northern Ireland and hop on a ferry to Rathlin Island. Here, you can park your car and discover the island home to a growing population of around 140 people. You can browse inside the temple and Hezlett House or enjoy the outdoor space. Family picnics, dog walks, and an easy 2-hour walk down the Downhill Demesne Walking Trail are all possible activities here. You’ll love putting this on a trip for 6 days around Ireland. 2. Glens of Antrim

This is one of the most popular Northern Ireland road trips, so get here early. I recommend going during spring in Ireland to beat the crowds. While I highly recommend renting a car so you can see all of these spots, there are plenty of tours in the area if you want someone else to drive you to a few of these destinations. How many days do I need for Northern Ireland? As the local experts, we’ve got a wealth of information to share with you. We have inspiration on what to do, where to go, where to eat and drink and, of course, where to stay in Northern Ireland.

To visit one of the best Northern Ireland scenic drives, you can park in one of the parking spots nearby and walk one of the three trails in the area. Stop to take in the scenery, snap photos, and fully absorb this wonder.It’s also a fun thing to do with kids near Belfast. Heading towards the coast again, you’ll find Glenarm Castle. Wander in its historic Walled Gardens or simply marvel at the sumptuous house interior. It is also worth your time exploring the mythical nine Glens of Antrim. The spectacular coast road to Cushendall, capital of the Glens, offers must-see views on route to your last stop – the pretty-as-a-picture Cushendun. Look out for the caves behind the village as seen in Game of Thrones®. Rathlin Island via the Dark Hedges Do the walk with a tour guide, and you’ll get a detailed history and explanation of the area and its significance. If you’re an avid bird watcher, you’ll want to try and make this trip sometime between May and August in Ireland. This time of year is when you’ll be treated to a stunning sight of migrating birds. How long you spend on your Northern Ireland road trip depends on exactly how many activities you do, but I recommend spending at least three days in the area to fully explore it. That way, you can take your time at places you like on your road trip in Northern Ireland and not feel rushed driving around. What’s the best time for a Northern Ireland road trip?

Newry map

If you want more knowledgeable information during your visit when looking for what to do in Northern Ireland, consider booking a guided tour of the Dark Hedges. 4. Glenarm Castle You can drive around Northern Ireland any time of the year – they don’t typically get snow, so you don’t need to worry about that. However, visiting Ireland during winter often brings windy, rainy days, so you’ll want to keep that in mind if you mainly plan on being outside. The Info Widget outlines the maps and datasets available on the PRONI Historical Maps viewer. Legend Widget