Northern Ireland Tours & Holidays

From spectacular scenery and captivating history to colourful street art and a thriving culinary scene, holidays in Northern Ireland offer new discoveries in abundance.

In spite of this, this beautiful part of the United Kingdom remains something of a hidden gem. Wild, unspoilt scenery is one of its biggest draws, with serene spots like remote Tory Island and the glacial fjord of Lough Swilly waiting to be explored. The Antrim Coast is home to miles of beaches complete with traditional arcades, while the enchanting Giant’s Causeway never fails to delight visitors from far and wide.

Northern Ireland doesn't just offer beautiful rolling countryside, however. Its cities are vibrant and welcoming, with a wide variety of things to do and see. Belfast is full of history, from its industrial past and the birthplace of the Titanic to the more recent Troubles. With grand architecture, a thriving arts scene and plenty of great dining options, it's well deserving of its status as Northern Ireland's capital. Londonderry, meanwhile, is home to medieval relics, a fantastic museum and offers easy access to the gorgeous County Donegal and Glenveagh National Park. Be it solo adventures or city-based short breaks, Northern Ireland holidays are full of discovery.

Northern Ireland trips provide ample opportunities to sample the area's traditional food and drink.

The region is best known for producing high-quality cheese, beef, whiskey, and seafood. Indeed, Lough Neagh is home to the biggest wild glass eel fishery in Europe. When it comes to local favourites, you'll find unpretentious but tasty and filling meals such as stews made with beef or lamb, pasties, and boxty; a traditional potato pancake.

A visit to a cosy traditional pub is the perfect way to refuel after a day of sightseeing on a walking tour. Enjoy hearty local fare and live music at 17th-century Grace Neill's in Donaghadee, or The Crosskeys in Lough Neagh, said to be Ireland’s oldest thatched pub.

For foodies visiting Belfast, a wander around St George's Market, home to delicious artisanal products and local fare, is a must-do.

Be inspired to travel solo. Newmarket Holidays welcomes solo travellers on all our group tours. In fact, many of our customers choose to join our tours on their own. And the best part is: you won’t really be alone. With a group of like-minded travellers and a friendly, informative tour manager (as well as incredible locals all over the world!), you will love your holiday experience. Joining a tour as a solo traveller is also a guaranteed way to feel safe and confident when travelling alone. While you can join any of our regular tours on your own, we also have a range of tours designed exclusively for solo travellers.