Here’s Your Guide To The Perfect Belfast Day Trip

Belfast has always been a city that has attracted our interest. 

Historical, cultural and jam packed full of hundreds of things to do – it’s screaming out for a day trip.

Whether you’re a foodie, a creative or a lover of all things scenic, Belfast has just the thing for you. And, to make life easier for yourself, we’ve only gone and planned out your whole day for you.

Aren’t we good.

1. 7:35am – The Enterprise train to Belfast from Connolly Station

Treat yo’ self and upgrade your journey to the trendy Enterprise train. You’ll get there quickly, you’ll get there comfortably and you’ll get there in style.

Skip the porridge at home and try out their decadent All Day Breakfast from their menu – thus making the trip feel shorter, and your tummy feel fuller. Win win.

2. 10am – Belfast Botanic Gardens

The Enterprise arrives in Belfast Central at 9:45am, and is only a fifteen minute walk away from the incredibly beautiful Botanic Gardens, which conveniently opens at 10am.  

An easy, breezy way to kick-start the day, stretch the legs and get some fresh air. 

3. 11am – A trip to the Ulster Museum

A mere three minutes down the road is the stately Ulster Museum. Open Tuesday to Sunday, and bank holiday Mondays. And the best bit? It’s absolutely free. 

There are actually three museums involved here: the historic Ulster Museum itself, the quaint Ulster Folk and Transport Museum, and the informative Ulster American Folk Park. Something for everybody.

4. 12pm – Milkshakes at Maggie May’s

You’d probably be peckish at this point. Tide yourself over with one of the best treats in Belfast – a Maggie’s Shake from the one and only Maggie May’s.

They’ve the most incredible range of flavours toppings and tastes. But get yourself here early, as the crowds flock to this Botanic Avenue hotspot for lunch.

5. 12:30pm – Stroll through Queen’s University

There’s nothing quite like strolling through a University’s campus in order to get a feel for the city you’re exploring, and Queen’s boasts quite the campus. 

Founded in 1845, Queen’s University has a world-class academic reputation, as well as one of the most breathtaking campuses you’ll ever see. In their own words, they’re ‘exceptional’, and we can’t help but agree.

6. 1:30pm – Lunch at The Barking Dog

You’ve walked the length and breadth of the city, and have indulged in enough culture to make your sixth year history teacher impressed, so it’s time to refuel. Get involved in the best gastro pub in the city, The Barking Dog.

Cracking atmosphere, a stellar menu and one of the best pub names we’ve ever heard, The Barking Dog is so much more than just your local. Go visit, and see why.

7. 3pm – Belfast Zoo

A stone’s throw away is the spectacular Belfast Zoo. A great day out by all accounts, especially since they’ve welcomed to their ranks a hyena and a new giraffe calf named Ballycasey.

And, in Belfast Zoo, you have the opportunity to feed the penguins. Do with this information what you will.

8. 5:30pm – Dinner at Deane’s

Back into the heart of the city we go, touching down at the famed seafood restaurant Deane’s, with catches so fresh that you’ll think you were submerged in the briny deep.

Well… Not actually, but the food’s still pretty good.

9. 7pm – Cocktails at Muriel’s

You came, you saw, you conquered. Now time to let your hair down. Round off your trip with a stop off in the one and only Muriel’s. In here, you’ll be treated like royalty, and they know how to knock your socks off with a show-stopping drink too.

After drinking here, you’ll be a loyal Murielite too!

10. 8:05pm – Take the Enterprise back home

The last train home is at a civilised 8.05pm, meaning you come back into the capital about 10.15, after sampling some of the best and sights and tastes Belfast has to offer. 

Not too bad for one day, eh?