48 hours in Belfast

Fancy a minibreak that’s within easy reach, delivers all the charm of the Emerald Isle and has more than a touch of opulence? Look no further!

Why go

The craic, obviously. Oh, and of course, you’ll get an absorbing dose of history, culture and heritage. Expect oodles of fun to be had in Norn Iron (as the locals call it) and the capital, Belfast, is at the heart of it. The weather may sometimes be damp, but the people are warm with a dry wit (think Derry Girls) and they are rightly proud of their beautiful country which punches above its weight when it comes to heart-stopping scenery, heritage and history – plus, a perfect pint of Guinness. As well as being just an hour’s flight away from London (the airport is close to the centre), Belfast is also compact, so it’s super-easy to explore in a weekend getaway. Most places of interest are strollable or a short taxi or bus ride away. The stunning Giant’s Causeway is only an hour and a half drive from the city centre.

See the sights

But you’ll be kept busy with attractions closer at hand. Titanic Belfast (titanicbelfast.com), for example, is the city’s recently refurbished museum, dedicated to the world-famous ship built there. It’s a story we think we know, but the museum takes us right through from the jaw-dropping feat of engineering to the heart-breaking personal stories of survivors and those who lost their lives. For another slice of social history, take a cab ride tour which to the Falls Road and the Peace Wall, where drivers from both sides of the religious divide give insights into The Troubles. Back in the city centre, saunter down cobblestone streets and enjoy the beautiful street art and buzzing bars. Whites Tavern – the oldest tavern in the city – provides a hearty lunch and a chance to catch up on the latest rugby match, an obsession in that part of the world. Then, pop into one of the many traditional watering holes to sink a pint of the black stuff and bob along to some Irish music. Huddles of musicians keep the infectious melody flowing on fiddles, Bodhráns and tin whistles. Or try a tour, where you’ll even have the chance to volunteer for an Irish dancing tutorial (belfasttradtrail.com). Shopping more your thing? Check out Victoria Square and nearby Arthur Street. The Avoca store (avoca.com) is a stylish destination famed for its fabrics and fashions.

And relax

If you’d prefer to be away from the crowds, head to the Culloden Estate & Spa for a touch of five-star class and pampering. Previously a bishop’s palace, the hotel is perched on the rugged coastline overlooking the Belfast Lough. The light is magical and the ambience relaxed, but unmistakably upscale. Unsurprisingly, this place attracts more than its fair share of celeb guests – David Beckham, Catherine Zeta Jones, Michael Douglas – and during our stay we spotted Vampire Diaries’ Paul Wesley mooching in the bar. Sample the recently revamped spa where the talented staff deliver dreamy massages and top-to-toe treatments. Once de-knotted, you can look out at the stunning grounds from the sauna, or the jacuzzi – pure bliss! It’s a relief that you can stay on the grounds, just amble to the Cultra Inn, a high-end gastro pub, and feast on Irish smoked seafood Chowder, juicy steaks and superior salads.

Drinking and dining

For those who want to keep things strictly city, the Grand Central Hotel Belfast offers glamour and culinary delights by the (champagne) bucket load. Gaze at the panoramic view of the skyline while sipping the tipple of your choice in the 23rd floor Observatory – Ireland’s highest bar. If you’re not sure what you want, the mixologist will oblige and knock up a bespoke cocktail. Belfast more than holds its own on the international food stage, judging by the eight-course taster menu at the Seahorse Restaurant. Recently launched by executive head chef Damian Tumilty, you can feast on Dublin Bay prawns, roast sirloin of moiled Irish beef and coconut sorbet, all paired expertly with delicious wines. A real wow-factor meal.

Need to know

Words: Lucy Hunter.