Day Trip to Lisburn and Castlereagh

A glorious example of Georgian architecture, Royal Hillsborough Village is an explosion of colour, especially during the spring and summer months. It was named after Sir Arthur Hill, who built Hillsborough Fort in the area in 1650. Discover Hillsborough Courthouse, home to the Visitor Information Centre and an exhibition on the Irish Legal System, and Hillsborough Fort. The surrounding Hillsborough Forest of 200 acres of woodland and tranquil trails provides a peaceful setting for a stroll around the picturesque lake. Stop for a bite to eat in The Hillside, The Parson’s Nose or The Plough Inn – all dating from the 18th century.

Once the site of Lisburn Castle, built in the 1620s, the 19th century gardens and 17th century terraces have recently been restored. The archaeological works carried out uncovered some significant historical artifacts such as a 17th century gazebo (summer house), terrace walls and a stone perron stairway. Take a tour to learn more about the history of Lisburn Castle and its gardens, and visit the nearby Lisburn Cathedral.

This award-winning museum is based in Lisburn’s oldest building, a former 17th century Market House. It brings to life the history of the Irish linen industry and its importance to Lisburn. Made from the stems of flax, a blue-flowered plant, linen has long been seen as a high-status cloth.  Irish linen was famous worldwide, and visitors can admire dresses by Sybil Connolly, one of Ireland’s leading clothes designer. Her work was worn by Jackie Kennedy and Queen Elizabeth II. Free entry.

Hillsborough Castle is one of the most beautiful and interesting historic properties in Northern Ireland. The late Georgian mansion, built during the 1770s in Hillsborough Village, is the official residence of the Royal Family when they’re visiting Northern Ireland. The 96 acres of beautiful grounds surrounding the castle include ornamental gardens, woodlands and waterways. Look out for the statue of Ossian – a mythical warrior poet – just outside the main entrance, the Lady Alice Temple, the Quaker Burial Ground and the Ice House. You can also purchase tickets on the day at our ticket office.

Perfect for rainy days, Dundonald International Ice Bowl offers a great family day out. Skate around the Olympic-sized ice rink, try tenpin bowling with a glow in the dark session of Xtreme Bowling, explore the Indiana Land indoor playground or test your head for heights at Ireland’s first Clip n Climb – a challenging series of climbing based activities.

Nature and Nurture is an imaginative play centre just 15 minutes from the centre of Belfast in Lisburn Square. Does your little one want to be a doctor? Run a Café? Or perhaps work in a salon? They can explore the themed areas within the role play village which is sure to keep them entertained for the whole session!

Airtastic Ultimate Challenges is Northern Ireland’s unmissable, interactive and state-of-the-art team game experience, exclusive to Airtastic Lisburn. Play as a team of 2-6 people as you navigate your way through 30 unique and fun challenge rooms which involve a mix of physical, mental and skill-based tasks. This is the perfect activity for mates or dates, families and groups or even team building – so head on over to Airtastic Lisburn for an unforgettable day out!

Located just 10 minutes from Belfast and just off the M1 at Sprucefield, High Rise should be top of the list for anyone planning a family day out in Northern Ireland! High Rise is an exciting adventure centre offering a great day out for all the family, young and old, with attractions for all ages and abilities. High Rise is home to Northern Ireland’s largest Clip ‘n Climb indoor climbing arena and also has a soft play area for younger children.

Boasting the largest leisure pool in Northern Ireland, and the longest waterslide in Ireland, there’s buckets of fun at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex. Pack your swimming costume and bring the whole family to Aqualand for a session by the sunken pirate ship, water cannons and lazy river. Opening hours vary, including dedicated family sessions which last 90 minutes.

Castlereagh Hills Golf Course overlooks idyllic views of Strangford Lough and County Down. The facility boasts a challenging 18-hole course and contemporary clubhouse with conference rooms, bar and fully licensed restaurant which is open to members and non-members. Visitors can be assured of a warm and friendly welcome and new club members are encouraged to apply.

Let’s Go Hydro is Ireland’s largest aqua park and alternative accommodation resort. A beautiful and brilliantly designed resort with a relaxing yet enjoyable atmosphere, offering top-quality water sports facilities and accommodation just 10 minutes from Belfast city centre.

Located in the heart of Lisburn and covering 25 acres of mature parkland, Wallace Park is ideal for families, with an excellent children’s play area and a variety of gentle walks. The park was given to the town of Lisburn by its landlord, Sir Richard Wallace in 1884 as a public park and recreation ground. Originally known as the Peoples Park, it was renamed Wallace Park after Sir Richards death in 1890. It has largely retained its original layout and much of its Victorian character.

Lagan Valley Regional Park is a mosaic of countryside, urban parks, heritage sites, nature reserves and riverside trails. It’s an ideal place to enjoy the countryside, pursue active sports such as cycling, running and canoeing, or to participate in more leisurely pursuits such as bird watching and walking. Discover historical locations such as Lester’s Dam, the Belvoir Motte and the Giants Ring, a Neolithic monument.

The Hinch Distillery sits in the heart of the County Down countryside. Visitors have the opportunity to learn about local distilling traditions on guided tours. Everything has been designed not only to produce world class whiskey and gin, but also to provide visitors an up-close view of the whole process.

Let’s Go Hydro is so much more than an exciting day out or a bed for the night! Whether you’re looking for mouth-watering sourdough pizza, boozy cocktails or you fancy making your own BBQ, we’ve got you covered. Head to The Sea Container Cafe for breakfast, lunch, ice cream or a strong coffee. Or try the HorseBox for a light bite. You could also call up to Pizza Boutique our licenced pizzeria, for amazing food, cocktails, Italian wine and some of the best views of the resort.

Within Castlereagh Hills Golf Club there is a fully licensed restaurant. Whether you call in for a quick drink or a relaxing meal, you will always be welcomed warmly by the staff. The restaurant’s menu is filled with appetising dishes, so you will have plenty of delicious options to choose from.