Welcome back all!
So happy to be writing another blog post. It has been a while! The end of my last college year has come around super fast! But heres to another adventure!
I've recently been inspired to create my own little spring bucket list and it consists with plenty of new plants, some tarot card readings and of course a spontaneous road trip. I handed in my thesis on Friday 6th and my little random road trip began on Saturday 7th. I decided to explore the northern Ireland coast because number 1. I have NEVER been and 2. Who doesn't want to see some of the locations where Game Of Thrones was filmed? (Arya where you at girl?)
keep reading to find out the best things you need to see and do while exploring Northern Ireland! (and of course the perfect playlist to go with it)
NI R O A D T R I P B U C K E T L I S T
Ideas: I got most of these done but the weather & time weren't really in our favour for some bits! Try not to let that stop you though!
Visit the Botanical Gardens
Have a Guinness in the oldest pub in Belfast
Visit the most bombed (still functioning) hotel in Europe
Walk through the Dark Hedges (location of Game of Thrones)
See the columns in the Giants Causeway
Go camping
Walk across the Carrick-a-rede rope
Visit a medieval castle : Dunluce Castle
Have a picnic on Portrush beach
Visit the Titanic Exhibition
Visit Londonderry
Stop 1. BELFAST
The History of Belfast:
Known as the "rivermouth of the sandbanks", Belfast city is one of the most historic cities that you will ever visit in Ireland. Belfast city played a major role in the industrial Revolution in the 19th century producing one of the most famous ships in the world. Yes, you guessed correct. THE TITANIC.
When you visit Belfast city you would never guess that it was considered one of the most dangerous cities in the world between the 1970s and 1980s. If you are unfamiliar with the Irish history, this danger stemmed from what was known as "The Troubles". Since established as the capital of Northern Ireland in 1921, it had been the location of severe conflict between it's catholic and protestant populations, now respectfully termed republican and loyalists. However, now it is free from violence and thriving with Irish history! You should read up on it if you are planning a visit! Super interesting!
So back to exploring: What to do in Belfast?
Botanic Gardens
STUNNING. BEAUTIFUL. FREE.
The Botanical Gardens was first on my list to visit in Belfast. Situated right beside Queens University it gives you the chance to visit both! Full of stunning flowers and beautiful walks you will not be shortened on the perfect instagram picture!
Have a pint in the oldest pub in Belfast
This is a stunning pub called Kellys Cellar smack in the middle of the city centre. Pints a approximately £3.25 (remember they use pound not euro). The atmosphere is amazing and you might even be lucky to catch some Irish music!
Go camping
Hey, who doesn't love a cost friendly trip? The easiest way to save some dolla bills is of course camp. Because it was so last minute it was nice to not have to worry about airbnbs! We decided to camping at Dundonald Camping park for only £16.00 a night. C'mon how could you go wrong. It was really safe and it had a shower/bathroom facilities. Did I mention it was right beside an American style food outlet?
I also fangirled so hard when I found the most amazing camper van! GOALS.
Stop 2. The Dark Hedges
Calling all you Game of Throne fans. If you happen to end travelling through Ireland you HAVE to try and hit some of the famous filming spots. It was voted one of the most beautiful places in the world and according to legend, the hedges are visited by a ghost called the Grey Lady, who travels the road and flits across it from tree to tree. Located in County Antrim, this filming location featured in Season 2, Episode 1.
Stop 3. The Giants Causeway and Causeway Coast.
The Giant's Causeway is an area of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns and is the results of an ancient volcanic fissure eruption! However, legend says the columns are the remains of a causeway built by a giant. The story goes that the Irish giant Finn MacCool was challenged to a fight by the Scottish giant Benandonner. Fionn accepted the challenge and built the causeway across the North Channel so that the two giants could meet. You could spend hours here exploring. Why not even take a picnic with you (and pray for good weather).
Tip: To visit the causeway is absolutely free! However, when you get there you assume to pay £11.00 for entry. That does not pay for entry into the causeway (cause its free) but entry into the museum and parking! If you want to save money just park along the road before you enter and its free! Woohoo!
Stop 4. The Carrick-a-rede rope bridge
Suspended almost 100 ft (30 m) above sea level, the rope bridge was first erected by salmon fisherman 350 years ago. In 2016 Carrick-a-Rede welcomed the highest number of visitors ever ! The cost of entry is £7.00. However, if you are a member of Irelands National Trust it's free!
So there you have it! Most of that was covered within 24 hours! Ive just attached my route below! But road trips are about driving into the unknown so change it up a bit. Research what you would love to do and just go with it!
hank you for your continued support!
Keep being you and let the magic happen.
Love R x