Discovering Northern Ireland: Our Guide to the Top 5 Must-see Places to Visit in your Motorhome

Northern Ireland, with its rugged landscapes, rich history, and welcoming atmosphere, is an excellent destination for motorhome travellers. Whether you’re exploring the scenic coastlines, delving into cultural heritage, or enjoying the vibrant city life, Northern Ireland offers an unforgettable adventure for those who prefer to explore at their own pace.

In this guide, we’ll take you through five must-see spots in Northern Ireland, as well as practical tips for planning your trip in a motorhome. From the world-famous Giant’s Causeway to the buzzing streets of Belfast, you’ll discover why this charming corner of the UK is a must-visit destination for anyone with a love for the open road.

Northern Ireland from Scotland

Perhaps the easiest and most scenic way to travel from Scotland to Northern Ireland is to travel up to Cairnryan, just outside Stranraer, and get the ferry to Belfast.

The ferry service departs multiple times a day, with usual journey times of between three and four hours. The cost can vary depending on the time of year and the size of your motorhome, so it’s always a good idea to book in advance for the best prices and availability. The ferry is a pretty hassle-free option, with plenty of onboard amenities (cafes, lounges and duty-free shopping) and, once you’ve reached Northern Ireland, you’ll be in prime position to explore.

Things to do in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland has a lot to offer, from natural wonders to cultural landmarks, and is a diverse and exciting place to explore in your motorhome.

Giant’s Causeway

One of the most iconic attractions in Northern Ireland, the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway is a must-see. Located along the Antrim Coast, the Causeway is a natural wonder consisting of around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns of varying shapes and sizes, formed by volcanic activity around 60 million years ago.

The hexagonal stones are a geological marvel. Dramatic and surreal, the landscape has inspired countless myths and legends. Folklore has it that a giant built the Causeway as a bridge to Scotland so that he could fight his rival. There’s a visitor centre at the Causeway that offers information about its history, and there are plenty of walking trails with stunning views of the Northern Irish coastline.

Tip: There’s a designated car park at the Giant’s Causeway where motorhomes can park, but if you’re going during peak tourist seasons it’s worth arriving early. You’ll find more motorhome-friendly parking at the nearby Bushmills Distillery, a five minute walk away, or there are several campsites in the area.

Belfast

The capital city is a dynamic hub of culture, history and vibrant urban life, and Belfast is an excellent place to experience the modern while also learning about the past. There’s something for everyone, including world-class museums and galleries plus lively pubs and a burgeoning food scene.

One of the city’s most popular visitor attractions is rooted in its shipbuilding past. The Titanic Belfast is a spectacular visitor centre located on the very site where the infamous ship was built, and explores its history from design and construction to the tragic sinking in April 1912. The interactive exhibits, multimedia displays and recreated rooms from the ship offer an immersive experience that brings the story of the Titanic to life. You can even visit the slipway from which the ship was launched.

After exploring the Titanic visit the nearby Donegall Quay to see The Big Fish, a beautiful 1999 sculpture also known as The Salmon Of Knowledge, and then take a stroll around the city’s vibrant Cathedral Quarter. Home to colourful murals, cobbled streets and a variety of pubs, restaurants and art galleries, this bohemian Belfast is beautiful and well worth some of your time. For a panoramic view, head to Cave Hill Country Park, where you can hike to the top for views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

Tip: There are several motorhome-friendly campsites on the outskirts that offer easy city access. Jordanstown Lough Shore is a popular option with facilities for motorhomes, including electric hook-up, water and waste disposal.

Image Credit – Nataliya Hora – stock.adobe.com

The Mourne Mountains

This stunning mountain range is located in County Down, south of Belfast, and is an officially designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), a protected region that includes rolling hills, glacial valleys and picturesque lakes. There are numerous trails for all levels, from gentle walks to more challenging hikes up peaks like Slieve Donard (the highest mountain in Northern Ireland, standing at 2,789 feet).

The Mourne Coastal Route is more leisurely, a perfect motorhome drive, with breathtaking views of the mountains and the Irish Sea. The route takes you through charming coastal villages such as Kilkeel and Annalong.

Tip: There are several motorhome campsites in the area including Mourneview Caravan Park, which offers spectacular views as well as easy access to the mountains.

The Dark Hedges

If you’re a fan of TV you’ll almost certainly recognise the Dark Hedges as one of the filming locations for the sex ‘n’ swords ‘n’ sorcery series Game Of Thrones. This enchanting and mysterious natural avenue of beech trees, planted in the 18th century, has a tunnel-like effect as the branches arch and loom overhead.

Located near Ballymoney, a village in County Antrim, the Dark Hedges is a very popular site with visitors for photography. Though it’s a relatively small attraction, it makes for a visually memorable stop on a motorhome road trip Visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds and capture the full beauty of the trees in the soft light.

Motorhome Tip: A small car park near the Dark Hedges.

Ards Peninsula and Strangford Lough

This stunning region of County Down offers beautiful coastal scenery and fascinating historical sites. The Strangford Lough, one of the largest sea lochs in the UK, lies on the peninsula’s eastern side and is a haven for wildlife. The region is rich in history, with attractions such as the medieval Mount Stewart House & Gardens estate and the Nendrum Monastic Site, a well-preserved early Christian settlement.

Tip: The Castle Ward Caravan Park offers a peaceful setting with great access to the surrounding nature and coastline.

Tips for Northern Ireland Travellers

Before you hit the road in Northern Ireland, there are a few things to consider.

• Ferry: Book your ferry in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to make sure you get a spot for your motorhome and avoid long waits.
• Routes: Northern Ireland’s road network is well-maintained, but some of the rural routes can be narrow or winding, so plan your journey in advance. Many attractions are located in remote areas, so make sure you’ve got GPS or offline maps.
• Regulations: Always ensure you’re parked legally. Some scenic areas, like the Dark Hedges, have limited parking facilities, so plan accordingly.
• Weather: Northern Ireland’s weather can be unpredictable, with frequent rain showers even during the summer. Be prepared, and pack accordingly.
• Explore: While the major attractions are incredible, some of the most scenic spots in Northern Ireland are off the tourist trail. Take time to explore.

Northern Ireland can be a truly enchanting destination for motorhome travellers, with its deep and rich blend of natural beauty and historical landmarks, as well as its vibrant capital city. From the otherworldly Giant’s Causeway to the Titanic in Belfast, this unique part of Ireland provides plenty to discover. Travelling across to Cairnryan and getting the ferry to Belfast will give you and your family a route into an absolutely spectacular motorhome holiday.