Northern Ireland in January is probably not anybody’s idea of a major destination. In truth, after the ninety-minute car ride from Dublin Airport, we were tired, jet-lagged, and it was cold, gray, and misty. Not to mention windy.
With early check-in at the hotel not really possible, we were left to wander the streets in our jet-lagged stupor. We stayed at the AC Hotel in Belfast, right on the river. There wasn’t much around it, but there were plenty of things within walking distance or a quick Uber ride.
Game of Thrones Studio Tour
The Game of Thrones tour and experience was amazing — a must-do for any fan of the show. Belfast was the primary filming location for the series, and the studio tour is built inside the actual Linen Mill Studios where so much of the show was shot. Walking through the sets, seeing the costumes and props up close, and standing in front of the Iron Throne — it’s an experience that goes well beyond a typical museum exhibit.
The Titanic Quarter
But the real surprise was the Titanic Museum, right across the river from our hotel. Maybe the best museum I’ve ever been in. It was well put together, well thought out, and very respectful. Belfast was the building site of the Titanic, but it’s a little bit unsung in terms of its recognition.
Docked right outside the museum is the SS Nomadic — the world’s last remaining White Star Line vessel. She served as a tender for the Titanic and the Olympic, ferrying passengers from the Cherbourg dock to the great ships anchored offshore.
Pub Fare and Whiskey
Dinners and lunches consisted of a lot of pub fare. And while there were some proper restaurants around, we figured — when in Northern Ireland, the pubs are the way to go. Fish and chips, bread, wine, cheese, a fair amount of beer, and oh yes, whiskey.
We went to the Titanic Whiskey Distillery for a tour and sampling, and brought home some new favorites. Unfortunately, they’re only available in the EU — so I have to have my European friends bring it to me when I want more. Or I’ll just have to go back.
Back to Dublin
After three days in Belfast, we took the train back to Dublin to finish our Ireland trip — a jet-lag shake-off at the beginning of what would be a longer adventure. Leigh went horseback riding and came back with great tales about taking one bus to another and how different the experience is on European buses — or at least Irish buses — versus the US. Calm, clean, safe, and friendly.
Would I have a need to deliberately go back to Belfast? Not necessarily — there’s a big world out there. Would I be disappointed if I had to stop off or had an opportunity to go? Not at all.