If you are a Brazilian living in Ireland and are looking for ways to make the most of this country’s stunning scenery, one of the best options is a good, traditional picnic. Northern Ireland offers a number of picturesque locations where you can enjoy an al fresco meal with spectacular views. From beaches to historic parks, there’s something for every picnic lover. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best places to picnic in Northern Ireland.
1. Belfast Botanic Gardens – Oasis of Tranquility
Belfast Botanic Gardens is an iconic site dating back to 1828 and has been a public park since 1895. Situated close to Queen’s University Belfast, it is a popular meeting point for residents, tourists and students. Here you can enjoy a picnic in one of the most important parts of Belfast’s Victorian heritage, with extensive rose gardens, surrounded by rare oak trees planted in the 1880s. Picnic areas are available on site for your convenience, making it perfect for a relaxing day amidst the city’s exuberant nature and fascinating history.
2. Carrick-a-Rede – Adventure Over the Waves
Carrick-a-Rede is one of Northern Ireland’s best-loved attractions, with visitors all year round. Owned and managed by the National Trust, the suspension bridge over the Atlantic Ocean was built by salmon fishermen 350 years ago and hangs around 30 meters above sea level. As well as enjoying a picnic in the designated area, you can have a unique experience with the wildlife around Carrick-a-Rede. Watch the seabirds as you relax after the exhilarating bridge crossing, making this location a perfect combination of natural beauty and adventure.
3. Whiterocks Beach – A Haven for Sea Lovers
Located on the outskirts of Portrush, Whiterocks Beach is a water sports enthusiast’s paradise, with clear waters, incredible views and a private location. Enjoy a picnic in the designated areas on site or sit on the beach and watch the surfers with surrounding limestone cliffs stretching from Curran Strand to Dunluce Castle. Additionally, a half-hour walk along the beach can take you to East Strand, another beach famous for its natural beauty. So, if you like feeling the sea breeze while enjoying your meals al fresco, Whiterocks Beach is the ideal place.
4. Gosford Forest Park, Markethill, Co Armagh – Family Fun and Nature Abundant
An adventure paradise for all the family, Gosford Forest Park has everything from playgrounds, family mountain biking, horse and walking trails to a skate park, along with 240 hectares of diverse woodland and open land. After all the exciting activities, you can enjoy a picnic at the barbecue areas and picnic tables available on site, surrounded by a woodland atmosphere. It is worth noting that the park is open every day of the year, with opening hours varying depending on the month, generally from 8am to 6-7pm and until 9pm during the summer months. This means you can plan your picnic at almost any time of year.
5. Newcastle Beach – Sea, Mountains and Fun
A popular tourist destination on the Co Down coast, Newcastle Beach is the perfect spot for a picnic with views of the Mountains of Morne in the background and on-site picnic areas. The beach is made up of sand, small rocks and larger rocks, with about 2.5 kilometers to walk after your picnic. It is surrounded by a promenade with the city of Newcastle behind it, which has many entertainment, shops and attractions. If you’re looking for a picnic with stunning mountain views and the convenience of a nearby city, Newcastle Beach is a great choice.
6. Delamont Park, Co Down – Serenity on the Banks of Strangford Lough
Delamont Park is located on the banks of Strangford Lough in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Enjoy a picnic in the peaceful, tranquil atmosphere with stunning lake views and an open picnic area, plus an on-site cafe. Nature lovers will love the feeling of being “away from it all” with over 200 hectares to explore around the park. If you are looking for a calm and relaxing environment for your picnic, Delamont Park is the ideal choice.
7. Hillsborough Castle and Gardens – A Journey Through Royal History
Northern Ireland’s only royal palace, Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, is a historic and picturesque picnic spot. Visitors can hear stories of diplomacy, celebration, entertainment and negotiation as they explore the history of the castle and its state halls, set within 100 acres of beautiful gardens and tranquil woodland. Located just 20 minutes from Belfast, this castle has events taking place throughout the year. Parking is free, with adult tickets from £10 and children’s tickets from £5. This makes Hillsborough Castle and Gardens an affordable and culturally enriching option for a day out picnic.
8. Dungannon Park – Family Nature and Fishing
With 70 acres centered around a stream-fed lake, Dungannon Park is the ideal spot for a family picnic, with spectacular scenery and a picnic area. Located just two miles from Dungannon city center, Dungannon Park is home to Park Lake, which is a 12-acre creek-fed lake, home to a wide variety of aquatic insects and regularly stocked with rainbow trout, Perfect for those who want to learn how to fly fish. If you prefer walking, there is a network of walking trails, as well as treasure and orienteering trails. This park offers a combination of relaxation, adventure and nature, making it a versatile spot for a family picnic.
Northern Ireland offers an incredible variety of picnic spots, from picturesque beaches to historic parks and stunning natural areas. So, grab your favorite snacks, grab your family and friends, and go explore these wonderful locations to create unforgettable memories amidst the beauty of nature. Make the most of your stay in Northern Ireland and enjoy those special moments outdoors!We hope this in-depth guide has inspired you to picnic at one of these incredible places in Northern Ireland. Make the most of the stunning scenery, fascinating history and outdoor fun these locations have to offer. Create unforgettable memories and enjoy the natural beauty of this enchanting country.
