8 of the most scenic Northern Irish Sunday drive routes to enjoy
By Conor McAteer
Published 6th Jan 2024, 08:00 BST
From the rolling hills of the countryside to beautiful coastal stretches, a drive through Northern Ireland can not only make for a unique day out but also a source of constant inspiration.
While best known for its seemingly endless cloudy days brought on by Ireland’s Atlantic position, when clear skies roll in, we are suddenly blessed with an aesthetic spread that unfurls the raw beauty of the region.
When that happens there’s no better way to experience the great views than taking a scenic drive along one of the many routes across Northern Ireland.
5. Mourne coastal route
This route picks up at Newcastle and follows a circular 63-mile route via the Mourne Mountains and the northern shore of Carlingford Lough. Newcastle is beloved throughout Northern Ireland for its mix of amusement arcades, beach promenade, Royal County Down Golf Course and the prestigious Slieve Donard Hotel & Spa. Keep driving along the Irish Sea coast towards the fishing village of Annalong before turning inland to take in Silent Valley Mountain Park and Reservoir. Head back to the coast and Kilkeel, one of Northern Ireland’s best fishing ports, then onwards to Rostrevor, home of the celebrated annual Fiddler’s Green Festival of folk music. The equally attractive Warrenpoint is home to the 16th-century Narrow Water Castle, which is privately owned but is available for self-catering accommodation and private functions. Newry is next, with its canal, cathedral, and plenty of shops and cafes to pause before the next leg. The drive now heads through the famous Mournes towards Hilltown, named after the prosperous Hill family who also gave their name to Hillsborough and Hillhall. Spelga Dam, built in the 1950s and holding 2.7 million cubic metres of water. The experience is actually haunting; not only is the concrete itself imposing, but if you drive up the road to the main building and turn off your engine and handbrake, you’ll feel like you’re rolling uphill backwards. Photo: Visit Mourne Mountains
6. Strangford Lough (west coast)
An alternative to the Ards Peninsula, this journey, also starts at Newtownards, before taking in the market town of Comber - named after its famed Comber Earlies potatoes. Its other biggest claim to fame is as the birthplace of Thomas Andrews, chief designer of the Titanic - along with a delegation of colleagues from Harland & Wolff, he perished on the liner’s maiden voyage and the town’s primary school is named after him. Just south of Comber is the tidal island of Islandhill, connected to the shore by a narrow stone walkway; get your timing right or you could be stranded. A couple of miles south is Castle Espie, a celebration of the region’s bountiful wildfowl, with outdoor viewpoints, a cafe and a gift shop with more stunning lakeshore views. Keep motoring to Killinchy’s Balloo House, one of Northern Ireland’s most renowned restaurants, and on to Killyleagh, the birthplace of Sir Hans Sloane, the naturalist whose collection formed the basis of the British Museum. The privately owned Killyleagh Castle, looking like a French architectural transplant, with fairytale turrets and imposing gatehouse, stands tall over the village. Winding towards Downpatrick, be sure to drop into Delamont Country Park with a playpark, miniature railway, and Strangford Stone that was erected to mark the Millennium. In Downpatrick itself, you’ll find Down Cathedral and the reputed burial site of St Patrick, as well as the Down County Museum and the town’s 18th-century gaol. Photo: National Trust
7. Lough Neagh Loop
Being the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles (151 square miles), circumventing the lake’s perimeter is brimming with highlights. Plonked right in the centre of Northern Ireland, the lake is also the opposite of Strangford Lough; more populated, more popular, and less remote. There’s plenty to do here, no matter what you’re looking for or who you’re travelling with. There are plenty of large towns, including Antrim (possibly the best starting point) and Lurgan, but also many charming smaller villages, such as Ballyronan. But it’s not all urban; you’ll get plenty of opportunities to see endless forms of wildlife (woodland, meadow, and bird-watching hides), along with anglers and boaters. You’ll also spot bays, beaches, nature reserves, some smaller tributary lakes - and plenty of perfect picnic spots. Additionally, you’ll also pass through all but one of Northern Ireland’s six counties. Photo: Lough Neagh Loop via Britannica
8. Causeway coastal route
Of course, any list of Northern Ireland scenic routes would not be complete without this 120-mile jaw-dropper between Belfast and Derry cities. Prepare to be enchanted by the constantly changing landscape, from postcard-perfect shores to majestic mountain peaks, and bustling seaside resorts to quiet hamlets, with charming fishing harbours. Apart from the ‘A’-class roads with their seamless dual carriageway experience, you’ll also find winding ‘B’-category roads, adding a touch of rustic exploration to your route. While theoretically possible to travel the route in a single day, it is best to do it over the course of 3-5 days to explore the main attractions and drink in the natural beauty. Photo: DiscoverNI