Exploring Northern Ireland

Hey everyone, Lauren here signing in from the UUC campus. As you may know by now I am one of seven girls studying in Coleraine this semester. One of the amazing things about Coleraine is the location. The town itself isn’t bustling with activity but you are only stone’s throw away from all the action. Before moving up here in September I had never been to Northern Ireland so I couldn’t wait to travel around and see it while studying up here. Today I am going to be talking about a few of the places I have explored so far while being here.

Portrush/Portstewart

Portrush and Portstewart are two beautiful seaside towns only 10 minutes on the train with lots to offer even when its cold and windy. The water is cold, colder than at home I find but I did manage to get a few swims in while the weather was still mild in September. If freezing in the ocean isn’t your thing there is so many good places to go out to eat or for drinks but that will get its own post so stay tuned for that.

Derry

Went to Derry to do a bit of shopping and went for to see the Derry girl’s mural of course! The bank account might be screaming after your trip there but its so worth it.

Belfast

Coleraine is only an hour and half from Belfast and the train journey does fly trust me! It was one of the girl’s birthdays the other weekend, so we spent 2 nights there and previously have been to Belfast for day trips. If you have some time free it’s a great option. We went to the Titanic Museum, which was interesting, you can do an audio tour or just walk through it. There is information that you can read and pictures for you to look and interactive displays and videos.

St Georges market is a must visit while in Belfast as well there is people selling handmade jewellery, candles and amazing food and drink stalls. On entrance there is a very strong fishy smell because there is a vender selling fresh fish right at the door but don’t let it put you off. It is a great spot to grab a quick and tasty bite to eat or just to have a browse and grab a coffee and maybe a freshly baked brownie while you walk around it.