Open Travel Guide
Family travel in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland Family Travel Guide 2026

Travelling Northern Ireland with children: the activities, stays, and meals that genuinely work for families.

Northern Ireland is a land of dramatic contrasts — volcanic basalt coastlines, rolling green drumlins, and a capital city that has transformed itself from a divided post-industrial city into one of Europe's most vibrant short-break destinations. From the otherworldly columns of the Giant's Causeway to the Titanic Quarter's stainless-steel galleries, Northern Ireland rewards visitors who look beyond the obvious.

Family activities

Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.

6+

Titanic Belfast interactive museum

Price: Family ticket £54 (~$69) for 2 adults + 2 children

All ages

Ulster Folk Museum open-air living history

Price: Family £27 (~$34)

All ages

Tollymore Forest Park trails

Price: Free; car park £5 (~$6)

3+

Exploris Aquarium Portaferry

Price: Adults £9.50, children £6.50 (~$12/$8)

3+

W5 Interactive Science Centre Belfast

Price: Adults £12, children £8, family £35 (~$15/$10/$44)

4+

Glenariff Forest Waterfalls trail

Price: Car park £5 (~$6)

All ages

Rock pooling at Whiterocks Beach

Price: Free

5+

Carrickfergus Castle

Price: Adults £6, children £4 (~$8/$5)

Family-friendly hotels

Accommodation designed with families in mind.

Dining with kids

Eating out as a family.

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Family travel tips

Practical advice for stress-free family trips.

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Build downtime into every day — over-scheduled kids melt down faster than tired adults.

Tip

Carry snacks, water, and a small first-aid kit at all times.

Tip

Many attractions offer discounted family tickets — ask at the ticket window.