Andrew Jackson Centre – a reconstructed
18th century cottage located just outside Carrickfergus. The centre
is near the site of the American president’s parents’
original home. The American soldiers who trained in Carrickfergus
during the Second World War are remembered here.
Ballycastle – marks the end
of the Causeway coastline. The town’s "Ould Lammas Fair",
commemorated in song, dates back to 1606 and still has sheep and
pony sales. Ballycastle celebrates the Festival of Song and Dance
each June and the Northern Lights celebration of culture in late
May. Marconi established wireless contact with Rathlin Island
here in 1898.
Bushmills Distillery – situated
in the village of Bushmills, this is recognised as the world’s
oldest licensed brewery. And though it was first officially distilling
in 1608, 13th century records tell tales of soldiers being fortified
with the local brew known as "uisce beatha" – the
water of life.
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge –
not for the faint hearted, with razorbills soaring fearlessly
overhead, this bridge of ropes and slats sways 80 feet above the
water and crosses over to a small island.
Carrickfergus – noted for its
brilliantly positioned Norman castle, overlooking the harbour,
where William of Orange landed in 1690 on route to the Boyne.
The town now revels in ancient banquets, as well as the "Lúnasa
Fair" on the 1st of August each year.
Donegall Square – situated
in the centre of Belfast, the square is dominated by the enormous
white Portland stone building of the City Hall. The City Hall
was built in the Classical Renaissance style and was completed
in 1906. There are a number of memorials on display in the square
including statues of Queen Victoria, Edward Harland and a stone
commemorating the American Expeditionary Force who arrived in
1942.
Dunluce Castle – situated in
Portrush, the romantic ruins of Dunluce Castle hang on the edge
of a crag. The castle originated as a Norman fortification and
later became a stronghold of the MacDonnell clan. At this ruin,
one can inspect the thousand-year old souterrain and original
cobbled yard.
Giants Causeway
Giant’s Causeway – known
as the "eighth wonder of the world", this is Northern
Ireland’s number one tourist attraction. Publicity for this
geographical phenomenon dates back to 1693, while leading international
geologists have vied with each other over the years to explain
its origins. Mythology suggests that Fionn mac Cumhaill wanted
stepping-stones to the nearby island of Staffa, where a particular
female giant lived. The true origins of this unique landscape
are explained in the visitors’ centre.
Glens of Antrim – the nine
Glens of Antrim run, in the immortal words of the song "Danny
Boy", from glen to glen, between steep headlands and down
to the sea. This is one of the most scenic landscapes in Europe
and at various vantage points along the coast; you can enjoy uninterrupted
views of the Mull of Kintyre and beyond.
Lagan Lookout Visitor Centre –
situated in Belfast, visitors can view the Weir and the giant
cranes of the Harland & Wolff shipyard, founded in 1862 by
Edward Harland from Yorkshire and Wilhelm Wolff from Hamburg.
Rathlin Island – a small island
situated off Ballycastle, this thinly inhabited botanical, ornithological
and geological paradise provided a retreat for Scotland’s
Robert the Bruce during the 14th century battles against English
tyranny. He hid in a cave in 1306 here prior to his return to
Scotland.
Titanic Memorial, Belfast
Titanic Memorial – recalls the
doomed liner, which was built at the Harland & Wolff shipyard
in Belfast. Situated in Donegall Square, the monument commemorates
the gallant men who perished on its maiden voyage. Belfast City
Council has designated the 15th of April as "Titanic Day".
Ulster Museum – located near
Belfast’s Botanic Gardens, this museum houses a unique collection
of treasure, including gold jewellery from the shipwrecked Spanish
Armada vessel "La Girona", as well as fascinating displays
from Irish history.
