8 Remarkable Things to Do in Northern Ireland with Kids

Are you considering a family-friendly trip to Northern Ireland? As a mom of two and a travel enthusiast, I highly recommend it! This small country packs a punch with stunning landscapes and complex history.

In this post, I’ll share with you 8 things you must do on your trip to Northern Ireland with kids to see it’s natural beauty and delve into its tumultuous past.

1. Titanic Quarter

The Titanic Quarter is an excellent attraction for history-buff families.

You can easily spend a couple hours exploring the Titanic Quarter of Belfast for free, you may also be interested in spending half a day at the acclaimed Titanic museum if you have more time. You and your family can explore the vessels, exhibits, and artefacts that help tell the story of the famous ship, the Titanic that was built right here. Don’t miss the reenactments and the undersea exploration experience.

Cost: £24.95 ages 16+, £11 ages 5-15, and kids under 5 are free.

Hours: 10am-5pm (These hours are expanded in the summer.)

I just love the sculpture pictured below. It’s a giant model ship punch out sheet.

2. Catch the Panoramic View from Victoria Square Shopping Centre

If you want to capture a stunning view of the city, Victoria Square Shopping Centre should be on your list. While they offer various shopping options, you’ll also admire the 360° panoramic view of the Belfast skyline from their iconic glass dome. Your kids will love the unique view of the city.

Plus, if you’re lucky, the observation area will be staffed with a local guide who can provide great suggestions of things to do in Northern Ireland with kids, based on your children’s ages.

See those yellow cranes in the distance? Those are Samson and Goliath, shipbuilding cranes and icons of the city.

3. Falls Road Murals and Peace Wall

The Peace Wall was put up during the rebellions in 1971 by the British and separated the Catholic neighborhood from the Protestant. Northern Ireland is a country that is no stranger to political struggles and conflict. The Falls Road Murals and Peace Wall provide an insight into the division of the country and its history through intricate street art. It’s an emotional and thought-provoking visit for all ages. The Murals depicted scenes and ideals from the struggle for Northern independence.

I was shocked to learn that the wall’s gates continue to be closed nightly!  

4. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

From Belfast, drive the Causeway Coastal Route north and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views.  

After about 2 hours on the Causeway, you’ll reach the Carrick-a-Rede Bridge.  

For £13, you can walk the bridge to a small island.   Add a little adventure to your visit by crossing the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. This suspended bridge connects the mainland to a small rock island and provides an excellent view of the coast. It’s a challenge, but your kids will feel proud of themselves after crossing it.

The bridge was originally built by fishermen in the 1700’s and still today, a fisherman’s house remains on the island. Lately, reservations have been required. So check in advance on the National Trust website.

If you have more time to explore the Emerald Isle, check out this 3 week Ireland itinerary for inspiration and to learn about the differences between Ireland and Northern Ireland.

5. Giant’s Causeway

he Giant’s Causeway is a geological wonder that you shouldn’t miss. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts a natural rock formation of 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns, surrounded by the ocean. It’s a mythical experience that will fill your family with awe and wonder.

A visit to Northern Ireland with kids isn’t complete without a stop here! It is the ultimate playground! Our niece loved jumping amongst the rocks, peering into tide pools, and searching for unique rock formations.

Read about the Legend of the Giant’s Causeway. What is really cool about the causeway is that, if you follow a straight line to Scotland, you’ll find similar rock formations along its shoreline.

The best local tip we received was that we shouldn’t pay a penny (rather, a pence) at the Giant’s Causeway.   Park on the street and walk under the bridge (to the back of the museum/gift shop)  and save the £10.50 per person.  If you park in the lot, they’ll require you to purchase a ticket.  

6. Bushmill’s Whisky Distillery

The Causeway is very close to Bushmill’s, so don’t pass up the chance to visit the world’s oldest Whisky Distillery (est. 1608).

Northern Ireland is home to some of the best whiskey in the world, and nothing tops the experience of visiting Bushmill’s Whiskey Distillery. A guided tour will take you through the history of distillation and demonstrate how each batch is lovingly produced. Best thing about this experience is that it’s friendly for kids too.

7. Game of Thrones’ Kingsroad

For any Game of Thrones fans, you’ll want to take a short detour off the Coastal Route to see the famous Dark Hedges, aka “Kingsroad.”

Depending when you visit and whether there is other traffic, this can be a great spot to run (or make tiktoks) if you’re traveling through Northern Ireland with kids.

8. Delve in to the War-torn Troubled History of Derry

One final stop in Northern Ireland is Derry where you’ll find more reminders of the Civil Rights movements in Northern Ireland.   Derry is a magnificent city that suffered from the brutal violence of the Troubles just a few decades ago. Walking tours can take you through the murals, the Bogside, and the famous Bloody Sunday. It’s a sobering and essential experience to understand the history of the country and the people.

The city is referred to as Londonderry by the Protestants while Catholics favor Derry.

Derry is also considered Ireland’s best walled city.  On your arrival to the city, spend some time walking the Walled City Heritage Trail to learn about the city’s history and get a lay of the land.

Closing Thoughts on Northern Ireland with Kids

From the heart-wrenching stories of the Troubles to the mythical wonders of the Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland has something for every family. Don’t hesitate to add Northern Ireland to your bucket list as it won’t disappoint.

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