By Bill Heaney
It’s a city with a rich, storied musical tradition and the birthplace of some of the greatest ever musicians, such as Van Morrison and Brian Kennedy, to name but two. With world-class attractions, historic landmarks, museums, shopping and some of the best food and drink you’ll find, there is a vibrancy about this place which is certainly making the city a must-visit this August and beyond.
Fleadh Cheoil will feature a wide range of activities including large concerts, street performances, pop-up gigs and community céilís. It’s the perfect time to build your bucket list itinerary and immerse yourself in the best that Belfast and Northern Ireland have to offer.
Craic agus ceol
From a traditional céilí band to a rousing pipe band, marvel at world-class talent and contemporary collaborations as you sample the very best of local music and culture. Alongside prestigious All-Ireland competitions with performers from every corner of the world, have a go at instrument making or practice cúpla focal of Irish with interactive workshops and hubs.
The Gig Rig, the beating heart of the Fleadh, will be located at Belfast City Hall, providing a feast of free performances from both big-name acts and emerging talent, as well as the event’s opening and closing ceremonies.
Legendary musician Sharon Shannon, right, and her Big Band will headline the main stage on Sunday, August 2nd. Renowned for her electrifying performances and genre-blending collaborations, the acclaimed accordion player will launch an energetic week in the city.
Belfast Grand Central Station is your gateway to the city with the Enterprise train running hourly from Dublin, offering a convenient, fast and comfortable journey.
Stay and play in Belfast
Lap it up in luxury in The Grand Central Hotel or the sustainability-focused Room 2 Hotel, both based in the Linen Quarter; enjoy home from home in Cordia Serviced Apartments, located on the Lisburn Road; or stay in the heart of the action and history at the Titanic Hotel Belfast.
Belfast is a city alive with local flavours, vibrant markets, craft brews and unforgettable food tours that bring its culinary story to life. Book a seat at James Street or The Muddler’s Club for fine dining. Expect to queue at Flout in east Belfast, the viral pizza spot everyone’s talking about – the pizzas made from scratch are well worth it.
The well-worn cobbles of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter are the beating heart of the city, and there’s no finer place to soak up the traditional Irish music scene. Weaving through its narrow streets, music old and new pulsates from the historic buildings – try Maddens, the photogenic Duke of York or McHugh’s by the Lagan. Prop yourself up at Bert’s Jazz Bar for exquisite cocktails or try the Dirty Onion or Harp Bar for live music.
Slow it all down and find peace and tranquillity in The Linen Hall – an archive of history. Founded in 1788 The Linen Hall is Belfast’s oldest library and the last subscribing library in Ireland. A vibrant cultural hub, it hosts exhibitions, readings and lectures, and features a unique CS Lewis collection.
Spring is in the air
Northern Ireland has a rich tapestry of heritage and natural beauty, where grand estates and meticulously maintained gardens tell stories of the past.
The Annesley Gardens, set at the heart of the internationally renowned arboretum in Castlewellan Forest Park, Co Down, have reopened following nearly two years of restoration work.
The 12-acre walled garden, dating back to the 1850s, is one of the finest examples of a grand Victorian formal garden with collections of rare and exotic trees, shrubs and plants. The surrounding arboretum is also home to one of the most significant collections of trees and shrubs on the island of Ireland.
Spend a day exploring the dramatic lakeside castle, ancient woodlands and the world-famous Peace Maze; or, for those more adventurous, tackle the mountain-biking trails and paddleboarding in the tranquil lake.
From its Mourne Mountains backdrop to its sweeping curve of strand and seafront and internationally famous golf course, Newcastle is a wonderful seaside resort to marvel at Mother Nature’s exquisite design.
Along the stunning Causeway Coast, a new 6.7km circular walk has been developed in Castlerock, Co Derry. Starting at Castlerock train station, the scenic two-hour walking experience offers a wild and rugged headland with a fabulous clifftop walk before arriving at Downhill Estate to explore its collection of intimate gardens, ruins and the iconic Mussenden Temple, perched dramatically with fabulous views of the Binevenagh Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Finish your Causeway Coastal route in none other than Derry City, where the 400-year-old walls are the star of the show. A cultural day in this iconic city provides an opportunity to step into its past, engage with its creative present and explore its many layers.
The Peacemakers Museum offers a powerful insight into the city’s journey from conflict to peace. Visitors can explore exhibitions dedicated to peace-building initiatives and learn about the people who shaped Derry’s path to unity and understanding. Derrie Danders offers guided tours with warmth and local insight, helping visitors connect with the city’s living history and its legacy of resilience.
After packing in all of that, you’ll need somewhere to rest your head. The four-star Bishop’s Gate Hotel is your perfect choice within the city walls. The guest rooms and suites are contemporary yet serene with great views across the cityscape.
Situated on Strand Road in the heart of the city, Browns in Town is an award-winning Michelin-recommended restaurant, renowned for its fine casual dining and comfortable surroundings. Over the Peace Bridge in Ebrington Square, there are two ways you can approach the Walled City Brewery experience. Either sign up for their special one-and-a-half-hour storytelling experience, where you taste the range of the brewery’s incredible house beers while munching on local artisan snacks, or you can book a meal at their impressive restaurant.
For those culture vultures, just 45 minutes outside Derry, in Bellaghy, is the Seamus Heaney HomePlace. Discover how the winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature spent his formative years, which were a source of inspiration for much of his writing. The centre offers an immersive experience through a two-floor exhibition filled with personal stories, photographs and the voice of the poet himself.
Plan your next Northern Ireland Adventure at discovernorthernireland.com