Fun Things to do with Kids in Belfast City

When visiting Belfast you really are spoilt for choice with the range of local outdoor and indoor activities there are on offer. And the best thing – our city-centre location, many of Belfast’s family attractions are close to Maldron Hotel Belfast City, so you will have a fantastic base to explore the local fun things to do whatever the weather.

Belfast Zoo

Located on the Northeastern slope of Cavehill, overlooking Belfast’s Antrim Road, the Belfast Zoological Gardens is a great day out for the whole family to enjoy. With daily talks, feeding times and a “zooper” 55-acre site there is plenty to explore at the Belfast Zoo.

The Wee Tram

The story of the Titanic Quarter comes to life on board. Hop on a tram and the live guide will fill the tour with local knowledge, good craic and amazing stories of the shipyard, illustrated by photography and video material on screens in each carriage. You can even wear your very own Edwardian ‘duncher’ as you travel! (it’s the old yardmen’s cap). For routes and tickets visit the Wee Tram website.

Streamvale Open Farm

With activities including pony grooming, animal feeding, tractor rides and barrel rides, there’s plenty for the whole family to do at Streamvale Open Farm. For opening hours and prices visit Streamvale Open Farm‘s website.

Barnett Demense

Barnett Demense, located next to Malone House, is the perfect place to take the family out and get some fresh air while taking in the beautiful features of the park. There is plenty to do and see with the park featuring a daffodil garden, arboretum, children’s playground, eco-trail, bike trails and a jump park.

CS Lewis Square

CS Lewis Square is a beautiful park dedicated to the work of the brilliant Belfast-born author, CS Lewis. The park contains sculptures from his world-famous kids’ book The Chronicles of Narnia. Kids will be in awe of sculptures of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe as well Aslan, the beavers and Mr Tumnus. So why not get the kids out and let their imagination run wild with these amazing pieces of art.

Exploris Aquarium

Exploris is Northern Ireland’s only aquarium and seal sanctuary which is situated in Portaferry. The facility is located on the shores of the Marine Nature reserve of Strangford Lough (1 hour from our hotel), which is an important winter migration destination for many wading and sea birds.

The Giant’s Causeway

Home to the legendary “Finn McCool”, and a beautiful landscape of dramatic cliffs, The Giant’s Causeway is the perfect day out for the whole family. You can climb Shepherd’s Steps, take selfies on the coast of the North Atlantic Ocean or even take a hike along the cliff-top trail to experience breath-taking views. Unlock the mystery and stories of the landscape in the exhibition area of the Visitor Centre, and then sit and enjoy the scenery with a coffee and a bun at the café.

The Giant’s Causeway is an hour and 20-minute car journey via the M2 from our hotel, with beautiful coastal views along the way.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a famous rope bridge near Ballintoy in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. Connected to the cliffs by a rope bridge across the Atlantic Ocean, Carrick-a-Rede Island (home to a single building – a fisherman’s cottage) is the final destination.

Suspended almost 100 ft (30m) above sea level, the rope bridge was first erected by salmon fishermen 350 years ago. Carrick-a-Rede is only a 1 hour 15 minute car journey via the M2 from our hotel and tickets should be booked in advance.

The Dark Hedges

Planted by the Stuart family in the eighteenth century, and known for its iconic appearance on the Game of Thrones; this breath-taking boulevard of beech trees is a Northern Ireland must-see! The Dark Hedges is only a 1-hour car journey from the hotel via the M1. If you’re planning a road trip, The Dark Hedges would be the perfect place for a pit-stop and a selfie or two.

Walking Trails & Hikes

There are a large variety of close-by walking trails such as Cave Hill, Black Mountain and Stormont Estate.

Beaches

You can enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city with the knowledge that you are only 15 minutes drive to the seaside areas of Holywood, Seahill and Helen’s Bay where you can enjoy the unspoilt beaches.

Public Parks

Across Belfast, there is an abundance of free public parks such as Botanic Gardens which is close-by, City Hall lawn which is often used for family picnics on sunny days and the Mo Mowlam sensory play park at Stormont Estate.