Longing for a day out? Whether you’re desperate to hit the shops, or simply need of a change of scenery, Belfast is brimming with things to do now that restrictions are being lifted. We’ve rounded up some inspiration for safe, socially distanced days out, giving you the chance to get out of the house and discover something new.
Have a Picnic in the Park
Belfast is full of beautiful green spaces and now is the perfect time to discover them. Pack a picnic and head to Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park in south Belfast where can stroll through the famous rose garden and spread a picnic blanket somewhere among the 128 acres of parkland. Or go to Botanic Gardens in the heart of the of Queen’s Quarter. Pick up takeaway food from Sakura or BaoBun on Botanic Avenue and enjoy it in the pristine gardens overlooked by a Victorian palm house. The perfect escape for a sunny afternoon!
Go on a Shopping Trip
Online shopping just isn’t the same as leisurely browsing in-store, and now that retail in Belfast city centre has reopened, you can finally get your shopping fix off-line again! You’ll notice certain measures in place, including limited numbers in stores and new navigation markers in Victoria Square and CastleCourt shopping centres to make sure everyone stays safe. There might be some queues outside, but take your time and make the most of it. Pick up a coffee from Starbucks and spend a day rediscovering the designer stores, high street brands and independent shops that make Belfast’s shopping precinct one of the best in the UK. And if you feel like you need a breather, visit the sensory room at Learning Space, which is designed as a quiet place of adults and children while shopping in the city centre.
Unwind in a Beer Garden
Looking forward to that first sip of draught beer? Belfast’s pubs have opened for outdoor service (with indoor service expected to resume on 24 May). On sunny days, make the most of the city’s cosy beer gardens, including new venues like CARGO by Vertigo and the Bone Yard. See our full list of beer gardens >>
Have an Outdoor Adventure
After a few months in the house, it’s time for an outdoor adventure! Get your adrenaline pumping at Colin Glen Forest Park, where the SKYTrek high ropes promises hair-raising zip lines and towering climbing walls guaranteed to take you out of your comfort zone! Have a go at cable wakeboarding at Let’s Go Hydro or try the mountain bike trails and jump parks at Barnett Demesne.
Eat Out
Belfast has an amazing food scene, and while many of the city’s eateries offered a taste of it on delivery during lockdown, you can finally visit our award-winning restaurants again! Restaurants have reopened for outdoor service (with indoor service expected from 24 May) so grab a seat in a sunny terrace and tuck into seasonal menus at these top al fresco dining spots >>
Get Lost in Narnia
Visit CS Lewis Square in east Belfast, a public space commemorating the Belfast-born author CS Lewis, and walk among characters from The Chronicles of Narnia! The square features seven bronze sculptures including Aslan, the White Witch, Mr Tumnus, the Beavers and the Robin. Grab a coffee to go from nearby Lamppost Café and go for a walk or bike ride along the Comber Greenway or Connswater Community Greenway.
Explore Stormont Estate
With an expanse of woodland to discover, Stormont Estate is ideal for an afternoon out with the whole family. Wander through the trees and follow the interactive walking trails, where kids can learn about biodiversity and the environment. Or take them to the children’s play park, where there’s also facilities for picnics and tabletop barbeques. The estate also has an enclosed dog exercise area, where canine family members can let lose off-lead!
Try Axe Throwing
Let off some stress at Axe Yard Urban Axe Throwing, where you can chuck real axes at wooden targets! The attraction’s outdoor area is for those over 18 to have a go at sinking some steel. Get 10% off their group package until 23 May.
