I planned a girl's trip to Belfast to celebrate a special birthday. I wanted to share some of the fun things we did as a little inspiration for your next trip. It was a busy 24hrs but we packed in so much. It was important for this trip that everything was within short walking distance from each other. My Aunt was visiting from New York and was so impressed with our beautiful city. She will be spreading the word when she returns home to the USA. This is what we want - people talking about our towns and cities for the right reasons and making this a place people want to have on their bucket list.
This is the coolest cafe for breakfast, brunch and lunch. The decor is such a vibe and immediately makes you feel relaxed and curious with all the authentic pictures on the wall, vintage table decor and draping greenery with cool coloured decorations bringing a real party feel. I really feel the team at Harlem are very focused on creating an experience as well as gorgeous food. There was a fantastic musician in the corner who sang all the current songs while we ate, drank cocktails, and made new memories together. It is a very busy cafe so at times the food can be a little slower in being served but we loved every second of the wait as we sipped on our cocktails and sang along to the music. I recommend booking 1-2 weeks in advance as there is often a queue and if it's for a special occasion you want to make sure you get a table.
(2minute walk from hotel)
I have stayed in Grand Central quite a few times and I knew that this was the perfect place for this special birthday. As it was a group of girls, we booked triple rooms costing £120 each. I rang and booked the hotel direct and quoted the code "Summer" which I had seen on their website. The moment we arrived the team greeted us with such friendliness and warmth. They got extra chairs for us in the lobby as we were such a big group so that we could all sit together and people watch. The rooms are luxurious and the beds are the ultimate comfort. The views from the bedrooms were breathtaking and I captured this lovely image of my Auntie Betty taking in the views of they city.
We booked a table in the Observatory for a cocktail before dinner. There was such a great atmosphere with groups all celebrating special occasions. Each cocktail was named after a place in Belfast which is such a lovely authentic touch that brings home the magic of the city. Cocktails are approx £17-£20 each. You are paying that bit extra for the fantastic views, the quality service and the extensive variety of cocktails. Such a special treat and worth a visit even just for that one tipple to soak up the atmosphere. I got the Botanical Gardens and savoured every sip.
Breakfast was such a treat. I always look forward to this part of any stay away. It is such a luxury to have uninterrupted breakfast so I place a lot of value on that first cup of coffee, fruit and granola and Irish Fry. It did not disappoint. We spent an hour at breakfast grazing continually and ordering copious amounts of tea and coffee while we reminisced about the fun we had the day before.
I highly recommend this fantastic hotel for a special getaway.
As we stepped onto the bus I was a little embarrassed to tell my Aunt that I had never taken the tour of Belfast before. We caught the bus just a stone's throw from the hotel at the side of the City Hall. It was a sunny afternoon so we sat on the top deck and we were transported through the city and back in time by our driver Mick who told the story of Belfast in a neutral, passionate way with lots of witty jokes thrown in. This made the journey so entertaining as well as educational. Belfast City has been through so much and continues to have many challenges but one thing shone through - the determination of the people to protect their culture and heritage but still strive to live side by side peacefully. The tickets were £20 each and trip lasted about an hour and a half. There was an option to hop on and off but we stayed on the whole time to make sure we saw as much as possible. I highly recommend everyone should do that trip at least once in their lives.
(Bus stop 5 minute walk from Hotel)
An old favourite of mine and one that never disappoints. This restaurant, owned by famous Irish chef Niall McKenna is renowned for its hospitality and delicious cuisine. Niall sources local ingredients and prides himself on making sure every dish leaves you wanting more. There is such a buzz in this restaurant and the staff are on the ball, remembering who ordered which dish and having everything cooked to perfection. I can still taste that Crab Linguine. I recommend booking 1-2 weeks in advance and if there is no space here you could also try his sister restaurant Waterman House in the Cathedral Quarter. Another exceptional place to eat, where the hospitality makes you not want to leave in a hurry.
(5 minute walk from hotel)
I knew this was the bar we had to visit. Renowned for the Irish Music, the atmosphere is always amazing and the Irish welcome is clearly evident from the minute you step through the doors. The Guinness is flowing and the real authentic decor transports you back to how things used to be when people came together to tell stories and dance. I wasn't expecting the night to end with a passionate rendition of "The Parting Glass" and a tune on the bagpipes by the talented musicians. What a night and I highly recommend for all ages.
(5 minute walk from hotel)
In conclusion, this was a busy weekend but one that we won't ever forget. I feel it's important to have a plan when visiting anywhere so I hope my recommendations help you plan your next trip to our beautiful city.
If you have any other recommendations please tell us in the comments below. It's another excuse to make another trip right?
Love Caroline AKA Digg Mama
xo
P.S This trip was not part of any promotional campaign.
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