Festive Getaway

Getaways Festive

Christmas lights, Derry St George's Market, Belfast Craft Village, Derry

Northern Ireland is bursting at the seams with things to see and do this winter. Whether you’re after a relaxing winter retreat or a festive Christmas shopping spree, Northern Ireland has everything you need to enjoy a fantastic festive getaway. Here are just a few ideas to get the snowball rolling.

Wonderful winter accommodation

The famous Europa Hotel (4*) offers comfortable spacious rooms right in the heart of Belfast and, most importantly, right across the road from one of the most historic pubs in the world, The Crown Liquor Saloon. Staying here, you won’t miss a beat of Belfast’s winter festivities! If you’re looking for an idyllic winter getaway, The Rabbit Hotel and Retreat in Templepatrick offers that - and then some. With style in abundance, your cosy warm welcome awaits only 10 miles outside of Belfast. Feel right at home as soon as you drop your bags.

Fill your bags in Belfast

Wherever you go in Belfast this winter, you’ll find top class shopping centres, wonderful local markets, boutiques and artisan craft shops. Take in scenic views of the city from the Dome atop Victoria Square. Potter about Born & Bred - it’s a treasure trove of unique local gift ideas. Soak up the festive atmosphere at the Belfast Christmas Market, open from November 20. Don’t forget to stop off at CastleCourt Shopping Centre at the end of Royal Avenue or the always brilliant boutiques on Lisburn Road for a final retail fix. Perfect spots to pick up a special gift this Christmas!

Shop ‘til you drop in Derry The Walled City, on the River Foyle, is another prime destination for festive shopping. Here, you’ll discover an eclectic mix of traditional craft, contemporary and quirky finds. If you’re in need of a high street fashion fix or a browse among the luxury brands, this city’s got that covered too.

Victoria Square, Belfast The Rabbit Hotel and Retreat Co. Antrim Christmas Market, Belfast

It’s hard to imagine a more inviting spot than the Craft Village. Quaint 18th century streets, a 19th century square, a totally Dickensian setting. Explore 70 local crafters, restaurants, coffee shops, fine art prints, jewellery, glass, silks and so much more. The gift ideas here are endless.

Shopping Around

No matter where you go in Northern Ireland, fantastic shopping is always just around the corner. Everywhere from Linen Green in Dungannon and The Boulevard in Banbridge to The Junction Retail Park in Antrim. Whether you're booking a cosy stay in Newry, Omagh, Enniskillen, Lisburn, Cookstown, Ballymena, Coleraine, Newtownards, Armagh... we think you get it. You'll be a stone's throw to that perfect gift, anywhere you stay! You’ll also find plenty of local shopping centres around the Walled City to fill your bags, home to all the top brands and stores.

Causeway Speciality Market and beyond

Causeway Speciality Market is a bustling food and craft market held monthly in Coleraine town centre. Now in its 15th year of operation, it’s the largest regular outdoor market of artisan food, craft and art products in Northern Ireland. Have a gander through the wide variety of arts and crafts whether for that unique gift or a treat for yourself.

Wish you a foodie Christmas

If all that shopping has tired you out, you can rest assured that you’re never far from a delicious pit stop wherever your travels take you in Northern Ireland. If you’re out bagging a few presents in Belfast, head to the newly revamped James St for a truly memorable dining experience in the city centre. Indulge in an international menu offering the finest selection of food that locals have come to demand at this level. If you appreciate a good deli, a visit to Sawers is not to be missed. Northern Ireland’s oldest deli is an Aladdin’s cave of culinary delights, serving only the best in fresh seafood, olives, cheese, charcuterie and locally-made preserves. During your visit to the historic and picturesque village of Hillsborough, County Down, you'll find the famous family-owned The Plough Inn which boasts an excellent reputation for hospitality, atmosphere and delicious food. Stick your fork into hearty, traditional pub grub with an imaginative twist. The perfect place to warm up after a winter’s day of shopping.

Legenderry Foods

If you’re hungry for more of the Walled City, there’s plenty more in the kitchen! Their Legenderry passion for great tasting food and drink is everywhere: from the local producers, to the bustling restaurants, craicfilled bars, vibrant street food scene and brilliant food festivals putting new twists on their ancient city’s fascinating food heritage. And why not pop into the Visitor Information Centre to pick up a Christmas gift while you're here? The Legenderry Larder is an incredible collection of award-winning artisan food products from local food producers presented in a wonderful gift box. The ultimate Christmas gift for food lovers.

Plenty more on the table

For a winter stay with all the trimmings, visit discovernorthernireland.com. There you’ll find even more information on the best places for food and drink, up-to-date guides on local Christmas markets, snug and cosy accommodation options and of course... festive shopping!