Popular Places to Visit with Your Kids During School Holidays and Weekends in Belfast, Northern Ireland
Belfast, the vibrant capital of Northern Ireland, offers a wealth of family-friendly attractions and activities that are perfect for school holidays and weekends. Whether your kids love outdoor adventures, interactive museums, or simply exploring new places, Belfast has something for everyone. In this article, we will explore some of the best places to visit with children, ensuring an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
1. W5 Science and Discovery Centre
W5 is one of Belfast’s premier attractions for children, offering a hands-on science and discovery experience. Located in the Odyssey Complex, W5 features over 250 interactive exhibits, allowing kids to engage in science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) activities. Highlights include ClimbIt, a multi-storey climbing structure, and the Experiment Zone, where children can conduct scientific experiments. With frequent workshops and live shows, W5 is a must-visit for inquisitive young minds.
2. Belfast Zoo
Situated on the slopes of Cave Hill, Belfast Zoo is home to more than 130 species of animals, including giraffes, lions, penguins, and red pandas. The zoo provides a fantastic opportunity for kids to learn about wildlife conservation while enjoying up-close encounters with exotic animals. The walking trails offer stunning views of Belfast and make for a great outdoor experience. Feeding times and talks from zookeepers add an extra layer of excitement for visitors.
3. Titanic Belfast
For families interested in history, Titanic Belfast is a fascinating attraction located on the site where the famous RMS Titanic was built. The museum offers an immersive experience, guiding visitors through nine interactive galleries that tell the story of the Titanic from its construction to its tragic end. The Discovery Tour is an excellent way for kids to learn about the ship’s history while exploring the Harland & Wolff shipyard. There are also family-friendly activities, including creative workshops and guided tours.
4. Colin Glen Forest Park
Colin Glen Forest Park is an outdoor adventure haven, ideal for active families looking to explore nature. This expansive park offers attractions such as the Gruffalo Trail, where children can follow a path filled with life-sized characters from the beloved storybook. The park also features high ropes courses, zip lines, archery, and mountain biking trails, making it a perfect spot for adventurous kids. The park’s scenic walks and picnic areas provide a relaxing escape from the city.
5. Streamvale Open Farm
For younger children, Streamvale Open Farm is a fantastic place to interact with farm animals. Located on the outskirts of Belfast, this working farm allows kids to feed lambs, cuddle rabbits, and ride ponies. Tractor and trailer rides provide a fun way to explore the farm, and there are plenty of play areas to keep little ones entertained. Seasonal events such as lambing season and pumpkin patches make each visit unique.
6. Ulster Museum and Botanic Gardens
The Ulster Museum, located in the beautiful Botanic Gardens, is a great educational day out for children. The museum boasts a diverse range of exhibits, from ancient Egyptian artefacts to dinosaur skeletons and local history displays. The Discovery Zone is designed specifically for kids, allowing them to engage with hands-on learning activities. After exploring the museum, families can enjoy a stroll through the Botanic Gardens, which features a Victorian palm house, tropical plants, and plenty of space for children to run around.
7. We Are Vertigo
We Are Vertigo is Northern Ireland’s leading indoor adventure centre, offering an array of thrilling activities. The trampoline park, inflatable obstacle course, and indoor skydiving experiences provide hours of entertainment for energetic children. The ninja master course and adventure climbing walls test kids’ agility and strength, ensuring a fun and active visit. The centre also has a soft play area for younger children, making it suitable for all ages.
8. Let’s Go Hydro
If your family loves water activities, Let’s Go Hydro is the perfect destination. This outdoor water park features an inflatable aqua park, wakeboarding, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Located just outside Belfast, it offers a thrilling day out during the warmer months. There are also glamping pods for families who want to extend their adventure into an overnight stay. The park ensures safety with lifeguards and provides all necessary equipment for a fun-filled water experience.
9. Cave Hill Country Park
For families who enjoy hiking and outdoor exploration, Cave Hill Country Park is a fantastic place to visit. The park offers a variety of walking trails that lead to the famous Napoleon’s Nose, a rock formation that inspired Jonathan Swift’s Gulliver’s Travels. The climb to the summit provides breathtaking views of Belfast, and children will love exploring the caves and historical sites along the way. The park also has a visitor centre and picnic areas, making it a great spot for a day out in nature.
10. Aunt Sandra’s Candy Factory
Aunt Sandra’s Candy Factory is a delightful attraction where kids can watch traditional sweets being made and even create their own treats. This family-run factory offers guided tours, allowing visitors to see the candy-making process firsthand. Children can participate in chocolate workshops, learn about different confectionery techniques, and enjoy plenty of delicious samples. It’s a fun and tasty experience for kids of all ages.
11. Dundonald Ice Bowl
For a mix of ice skating, bowling, and soft play, the Dundonald Ice Bowl is a fantastic family destination. The ice rink offers public skating sessions and lessons for beginners, while the bowling alley provides fun for all ages. The indoor play area, Indiana Land, is perfect for younger children, with slides, climbing frames, and ball pits. The Ice Bowl is an ideal option for a rainy day, ensuring hours of indoor entertainment.
12. Belfast Harbour Marina and Titanic Quarter
For a relaxing family day out, Belfast Harbour Marina and the Titanic Quarter offer scenic walks along the waterfront. Families can explore the historic docks, admire the impressive ships, and visit the SS Nomadic, the last remaining White Star Line ship. The area is home to cafes and restaurants where families can enjoy a meal while soaking in the maritime atmosphere. The nearby ARC playground is a great spot for kids to burn off some energy.
13. The MAC (Metropolitan Arts Centre)
The MAC is a cultural hub offering family-friendly theatre performances, interactive art exhibitions, and creative workshops for children. The centre regularly hosts storytelling sessions, puppet shows, and musical performances tailored for young audiences. The MAC’s welcoming atmosphere encourages kids to explore their creativity and appreciate the arts in a fun and engaging way.
Conclusion
Belfast is a fantastic city for families, with a diverse range of activities to suit children of all ages. Whether you’re looking for educational experiences, outdoor adventures, or interactive fun, Belfast’s attractions ensure an enjoyable and memorable day out. School holidays and weekends are the perfect time to explore everything the city has to offer, creating wonderful family moments that will be cherished for years to come. So, pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and get ready for an adventure-filled trip with your little ones in Belfast!