~ EMERALD ISLE ~
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~ Belfast ~
A village in the 17th century, this northern metropolis of nearly half a million people, has much in common with Liverpool and Manchester, across the Irish Sea.
The development of industries like linen, rope making and shipbuilding doubled the size of the town every ten years or so. The world's largest dry dock is here and the shipyard's giant cranes tower over the port. Today the city and the river front are being transformed. Much of the city centre is now pedestrianised, with benches where you can sit and listen to the street musicians.
There are many Victorian and Edwardian buildings with elaborate sculptures over doors and windows. Stone-carved heads of gods and poets, scientists and kings and queens peering down from the ledges of banks and old linen warehouses.
~ GIANT CAUSEWAY ~
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Volcanic Rock
A spectacular mass of basalt columns, about 40,000 altogether, formed by cooling volcanic rock. This is a World Heritage Site and one of the natural wonders of the world. The scenic walks take you past rock formations such as the Giant's Organ and the impressive Throne.
~ PLACES OF INTEREST ~
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~ Out and About ~
Cave Hill:
Take a day out and climb the Cave Hill, beyond Belfast Castle for a great view of the rock known as MacArt's Fort, where the United Irishmen planned a rebellion in 1795.
Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge:
The swinging rope bridge spans the 60 feet wide chasm to Carrick-a-rede island which is a bird sanctuary. If your a fan of bird-watching then you'll be in for a treat. Crossing the bridge can be a bit frightening as you watch the waves crashing onto the sharp rocks 100 feet below.
Silent Valley Reservoir:
Here you will find two artificial lakes high up in the Mourne Mountains. The water from here supplies Belfast's needs. They are surrounded by a huge drystone wall. Here you can walk for miles along the forest trails.
The Linen Hall Library:
Established in 1788, it houses an important Irish collection of over 20,000 volumes, with a Robert Burns collection.
Glenariff Forest Park:
You will need to start early if you are planning a hike through this park with vast forest landscapes. The hikes range in length from 1 to 17 miles and pass by all the beautiful waterfalls and deep gorges. You'll need to spend all day here if you want to see a part of Ireland rarely seen.
A late 18th century tower mill in use in 1915 and still in working order. There is a restored corn-drying kiln also.
Mount Stewart House and Gardens:
This is the property of the National Trust and is rated as one of the top 6 gardens in the United Kingdom.
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Carrickfergus Castle
Carrickfergus Castle
Town Hall
Giant Causeway
