There are so many fun things to do in Northern Ireland for couples. In fact, it’s one of the friendliest places in the world, so you can be sure that your trip will be filled with fun things to do and friendly people to meet.
Whether you are looking for peace and quiet or an active vacation full of adventure, there are plenty of options for couples.
Experience the Causeway Coast
If you and your partner love road tripping, consider renting a car and driving along the Causeway Coast. This route follows Northern Ireland’s sweeping rugged coast from Derry to Belfast (or Belfast to Derry, depending on which way you’re coming from).
This coastal route is an absolutely stunning drive. It’s home to many gorgeous beaches, cliffs, and islands. There are honestly soo many spots to stop and visit!
The route itself is about 154 miles and will take about four days to drive. Along the way, you can visit many nature spots and historical places (like and). And then beaches like Runkerry Beach, Murlough Bay, and Whitepark Bay, the list goes on! This is one of the best anniversary trip ideas you can do.
Nature Spots
- The Cushendun Caves are the result of nearly 400 million years of erosion. They’re located in Co. Antrim, about halfway in between your drive from Belfast to Derry. You are free to explore these independently, and it’s a free activity.
- The Gobbins cliff path is for the more adventurous couples. This attraction is located nearer to Belfast (about 20 miles outside the city). It has a storied history (having been originally constructed in 1902), and yet is likewise a modern marvel. This is a ticketed activity, and you’ll be guided along and given all sorts of info about the history and flora, and fauna. There are restrictions with this activity with regard to appropriate footwear and ability levels. But if you’re up for the challenge, it’s so worth it!
Historical Places
- Glenarm Castle is a gorgeous historical estate that is perfect for couples to wander through and possibly even stop over for a night on their road trip. Its heritage dates back to the 17th century, so you’ll find loads of history and lore when you step onto the grounds. It’s idyllic for romantic strolls, traditional tea times, and fine dining. It’s recommended to book ahead for whatever activity suits you and your partner.
- Mussenden Temple is another beauty on the coast, but this one is much closer to Derry. It’s almost precariously perched on a cliff overlooking Downhill Strand beach. There is a fee to enter, but you can also wander around in the off-season. It’s a really stunning spot and great for budding photographers or just those cute couples’ selfies 😉
Overall, driving the coast is a really lovely way to while away the days with your sweetheart, sightsee, and get back to nature. There are honestly a ton of spots to stop at and stay at – this post could solely focus on that alone!
Golf at Spectacular Links
Of course, there is great golfing in Ireland. And along the Causeway Coast is no exception!
If you and your partner are golfers (beginner or advanced), there are plenty of places to choose from.
- Royal Portrush Golf Club has hosted The Open Championship four times since 1951. It’s considered by many experts as “The Home of Irish Golf.” Golf Digest twice voted it in the top ten of the world’s top 100 golf courses.
- Ballycastle Golf Club is a links course just off the coast. Stunning views and a challenging course, it is a parkland course just south of the city center of Belfast. This one is great if you’re sticking around the city and just want to take a day for some golf and still be able to enjoy the city nightlife.
- Cairndhu Golf Club has been said to have the most scenic course in Ireland. Not only will you be treated to a view of the coast, but views of the Scottish coast and islands as well. Get ready for some epic playing, for sure!
Whichever course you choose, definitely check to make sure of clothing and etiquette requirements, cost, and ability levels. Even if you’re a beginner, some clubs offer courses with a pro. That way, you can still experience the beauty of the grounds without having to play a full 18.
Wander Through Dunluce Castle
Ireland castles are, of course, world renowned. And Dunluce Castle is one that is a must-visit for anyone planning to travel to Ireland. Whether you’re interested in history, stunning scenery, or ghostly legends, the castle has something to offer everyone.
It’s an iconic location with breathtaking views that couples can wander through on their own time.
Dunluce has a rich history that dates back to the 16th century. There are links to the Spanish Armada. And even legends of a banshee that haunts the grounds. It’s free to walk around at your own pace, and there’s a visitor center if you’re curious to learn more about the history.
It’s picturesque and romantic, and a great spot for grand gestures (like perhaps a proposal 😉)!
Walk Along the Giant’s Causeway
The Giant’s Causeway is another one of Ireland’s stunning attractions. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s truly a natural wonder.
If you and your partner are outdoor enthusiasts in any way, then stop here and take it all in. It’s an easy walk for those who are active. And for anyone with limited physicality, there are trolleys that can take you up and down the hill to the coast (at a small cost of a couple Pounds – you can pay in Euro as well).
Bushmills Distillery
If you and your sweetie are into whiskey, consider visiting Bushmills Distillery. There are a couple different tours you can take: a walking tour through the distillery, and a tour plus tasting.
Bushmills Irish Whiskey is a single malt whiskey, brewed in the town of Bushmills, County Antrim. It’s the oldest licensed distillery in Ireland and produces some of the best-known brands of Irish whiskey.
The tours will take you through their grounds and history, from its founding as an ale house in 1608 until now (with stops along the way). During your visit, you’ll learn how they make their award-winning beverages using traditional methods and get a chance to sample some!
Relive History at Titanic Belfast
If you’ve got the time, and you and your partner are into Titanic history, do not miss Titanic Belfast!
This is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. It’s also one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic sights.
The building itself is quite striking against the backdrop of the River Lagan. It’s a pretty cool display of modern architecture. Inside, though, you’ll be transported back to 1912. It offers visitors an immersive experience from when the ship was launched into history.
The interactive exhibits allow you to explore what life would have been like on board for the various classes of passengers. It’s a fascinating trip and easy to see why this ship and its devastation has left such a mark on the hearts of Northern Ireland.
Tour Belfast
Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland. It’s the largest city in Northern Ireland and the second largest on the island of Ireland. There is so much culture to absorb in Belfast, you’ll find it hard to leave!
It’s a foodie destination. You’ll find traditional pubs as well as trendy cocktail bars. And music around every corner. In fact, Belfast has been designated a UNESCO City of Music!
You could aimlessly amble around the city with your sweetheart (which can be fun, don’t get me wrong!) But you can also take a tour or two to really see some stuff:
- Belfast Bike Tours – a great small group tour (they pride themselves in only allowing 10 or less people per group) with personable and experienced guides that are all locals. You can also book private tours as well.
- Black Taxi Tours Belfast – they offer a range of tours based on your interests (like political history, Game of Thrones, or Ultimate Belfast Experience). Very knowledgeable and charismatic.
- Taste and Tour – for the foodies, this tour will take you on a trip around Belfast to discover its flavors. Again guided by locals passionate about their city.
Visit the Dark Hedges
For those couples who loved Game of Thrones your visit to Northern Ireland wouldn’t be complete without stopping here. You can reach the dark hedges if you’re road tripping along the causeway coast. Or you can take a day trip from Belfast to get there.
The Dark Hedges is a row of beech trees located along a small road in Ballymoney, Northern Ireland. If you don’t know, they’re famous for their use as a setting in the HBO drama series Game of Thrones.
The trees were planted in the eighteenth century by the Stuart family, who owned a nearby house called Gracehill Manor.
They were never intended to be viewed as they are today but have become a popular tourist attraction due to the show. Because they are so popular, unless you’re traveling in the off-season, don’t expect to get to experience this dramatic landscape alone.
But it’s still pretty impressive, nonetheless.
Tour Derry
Another great thing to do for couples in Northern Ireland is take a tour of Derry (be it a walking tour or taxi tour). You’ll get an overview of the city’s history, as well as highlights like the Peace Bridge and overviews of the city.
You’ll also learn about its political history, the fact that it’s Ireland’s only fully intact walled city, and who calls it Derry or Londonderry.
Taking a tour is a great way to hear about Derry and learn some things from a local that you can take more time to visit afterwards (like a great pub or restaurant). Also if one or both of you is a fan of the hit show Derry Girls, there are even specific tours that will take you to all the great locations you’d recognize from the episodes.
Derry is another cosmopolitan city in Northern Ireland, so there’ll be so much for couples to do here, whether you’re foodies, music lovers, or into nature.
The Takeaway
There are so many fun things to do in Northern Ireland for couples. This part of the UK has so much to offer for any type of traveler truly.
And what’s great is that if you’re already visiting the Republic of Ireland, you can easily travel to Northern Ireland for a day or two without having to pass through checkpoints.
It’s an amazing destination for couples and not to be missed!
