Northern Ireland In Eight Days: A Fleadh Cheoil 2026 Itinerary

Six counties. Eight days. From cities to coast, lakelands to mountain ranges, experience all that Northern Ireland has to offer with this inspiring itinerary.

This August, Belfast will host Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, the world’s biggest celebration of traditional Irish music and culture. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or staying for the full festival, why not let the Fleadh be the beginning of your giant adventure?

The region may be small enough to cross in a couple of hours, but the variety packed into it is remarkable. Starting and ending in Belfast, this seven-night journey takes in must-see attractions across all six counties, alongside travel tips, places to stay, recommendations on where to eat and drink, and what to do while you’re here.

Follow the route in full or dip into individual sections to create a shorter escape of your own - however long you have, discover more of Northern Ireland beyond the Fleadh.

Experience Northern Ireland's Iconic Coastline

Days 1 - 2: The Causeway Coast

The Causeway Coastal Route needs little introduction. Spanning Northern Ireland's shoreline from Belfast all the way to Derry~Londonderry, it boasts a spectacular mix of astonishing scenery - from the world-famous basalt columns of the Giant's Causeway to clifftop castle ruins -, pristine golden beaches and plenty of places to eat, drink and enjoy a famously warm welcome.

Situated on a peninsula that juts out into the North Atlantic, the resort town of Portrush makes an ideal first stop for the itinerary. With easy access and lots to do, Portrush also boasts a wealth of accommodation options from hotels to self-catering, B&Bs, guest houses, hostels and more. Demand is always high during the summer season and so booking your accommodation early is highly recommended.

Day 1: Afternoon - Explore Portrush

Once you've arrived and got your bearings, it's well worth taking the time to explore Portrush itself. Compact and easily walkable, the town features two excellent beaches - East Strand and West Strand - along with a wealth of activities and attractions for all visitors.

A world-class destination for golf and surfing, Portrush has plenty to do whether you're travelling solo, with a group or with the whole family. Kids will love a trip to the iconic Curry's Fun Park (formerly Barry's Amusements), Northern Ireland's largest indoor amusement park with rides and attractions for all ages.

For golf fanatics, Royal Portrush Golf Club is a bucket list destination that requires little introduction. For novices or more casual players, the nearby Ballyreagh Golf Course is open to the public and offers a more relaxed experience with stunning views of the North Atlantic and Inishowen peninsula.

To enjoy Portrush at a slower pace, there are a number of boat tours available that cater to anglers, photographers and wildlife lovers. Or you can simply grab a coffee and a pastry from one of Portrush's multiple excellent cafés and take a walk along the beaches, with plenty of places to eat, drink or enjoy a cold pint and watch the world go by.

Day 1: Evening -  Dinner, Drinks & Live Music

An ideal place to spend the first evening of your itinerary, Portrush is lively during the summer and boasts a food scene that makes great use of local produce and seafood. Shanty is a popular restaurant situated inside a historic ex-lifeboat shelter, while the Ramore Complex's range of eateries including the Ramore Wine Bar, Neptune & Prawn and the Harbour Bistro offers something for all tastes and preferences.

There are several bars in the town that offer live music: the Springhill Bar on Causeway St. often runs traditional Irish music sessions, as does the Harbour Bar. For something a little different, Kiwi's Brew Bar on Main St. offers craft beers and hosts live bands and comedy gigs, while bars in the town centre like the Elephant Rock Hotel, the Station Bar and The Quays offer a mix of local acts, karaoke nights and DJs.

Day 2: Morning - Giant's Causeway

The iconic Giant's Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Northern Ireland's most famous landmarks. It's busy year-round but August is peak season, and so early morning is the best time to get there in order to beat the crowds and enjoy the place at your own pace.

A 20-minute drive from Portrush, the Causeway is also serviced by the Ulsterbus 402 Causeway Rambler, a seasonal hop-on, hop-off bus service which starts at Coleraine and stops at all the major attractions on the Causeway Coastal Route.

The Causeway itself is free to enter, but tickets are required to access the National Trust visitor centre, which is highly recommended for the excellent geological and mythological context on the columns' formation. Pre-booking is essential during the busy summer period.

Day 2: Afternoon - Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Another 20 minutes by car or the Causeway Rambler around the coast, Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge is the next major attraction on your itinerary. The bridge itself was first erected by fishermen over 250 years ago and is constructed of rope and wooden planks suspended almost 100ft above sea level; narrow and bouncy underfoot, it offers a thrilling experience as you cross the dizzying 20-metre gap between the mainland and Carrick-a-Rede island.

Once your heart rate has settled, you'll enjoy excellent views of the sea, offshore basalt stacks and summer wildflowers. The site and its surrounding area is designated an Area of Special Scientific Interest for its unique geology, flora and fauna, while underneath there are large caves and a traditional cottage which once served as a home for boat builders and as shelter for the fishermen during stormy weather.

Tickets are required to access the rope bridge, and early booking is highly recommended during the summer months.

Day 2: Afternoon - The Old Bushmills Distillery

On the return journey to Portrush, you'll pass through the village of Bushmills, home to the oldest working whiskey distillery in the world. First licensed in 1608, the Old Bushmills Distillery offers tours that take you through its historic whiskey-making process - from malting all the way to maturation - in the actual working buildings that still make some of the world's finest whiskies today.

Hosted by expert guides, the tour ends with a complimentary drink - as all good distillery tours should - with the option to extend your tour to include more comprehensive tasting experiences. Tickets can be booked online, and it's highly recommended to book your tour slot in advance.

Day 2: Evening -  Dine & Unwind in Portstewart

A few minutes away from Portrush by car or by bus, Portstewart is a popular tourist town that offers a slightly quieter alternative to the bustle of Portrush and is packed with fantastic bars and eateries.

For dinner, Amici Ristorante is a popular restaurant that offers Italian cuisine made using the highest-quality North Coast ingredients, while Harry's Shack on the shore of Portstewart Strand is highly regarded as the go-to spot for local seafood. Both offer stunning sea views and a place to watch the sun set over the North Atlantic, and both are in very high demand during peak season - early booking is essential.

For afters, kick back with a cocktail from Villa bar on the Promenade or enjoy a top pint of Guinness and live music at the Anchor Bar across the street before calling it a night and continuing your travels the next day.

Wander Through A Walled City Full Of Stories

Day 3: Derry~Londonderry

From the Causeway Coast, the route moves naturally west to the city of Derry~Londonderry. One of the best-preserved walled cities in the world, it's rich in history and culture, home to some of the best food & drink experiences in Northern Ireland and a buzzing hotspot for live music, theatre and the arts.

There's plenty of places to stay in Derry~Londonderry too, from boutique hotels to stylish self-catered city centre apartments, B&Bs, guest houses and much more. As with everywhere in Northern Ireland during the summer, demand will be high so early booking is highly recommended.

Morning: Walk the Walls & Guildhall

The city's historic 17th-century walls are a must-see, and no visit to Derry~Londonderry is complete without a walk around them. You can either go it alone, or join a guided tour with local experts who will give you a whistlestop tour of the city's past, from its founding in the 6th century to its historic of political upheaval to its modern renaissance.

Along the way, you're likely to stumble across the now-iconic Derry Girls mural - with dedicated experiences available for fans of the hit show - and the Guildhall, a stunningly ornate neo-Gothic building of sandstone and stained glass that's been an integral part of the city's history since 1887 and hosted presidents, playwrights, poets and more over the years.

Afternoon: Discover The City's Story

Just around the corner from the Guildhall, you'll find the Tower Museum. Featuring exhibitions that explore Derry~Londonderry's storied cultural background, it's also home to an extensive collection of archives, genealogy information and cemetery records, making it the perfect spot to dive deep into local and personal history alike.

The Siege Museum and Exhibition is a permanent display dedicated to the Siege of Derry~Londonderry - one of the most significant watershed moments in British and Irish history - and an informative walkthrough of at least one perspective of Northern Ireland’s history, with interactive media and an impressive collection of historical artefacts.

For another perspective, the Museum of Free Derry features a full multi-media exhibition on the civil rights movement and the creation of the Free Derry area in the 1960s and 1970s. This part of the city, just outside the walls, is known as the Bogside and is also home to the People’s Gallery of Murals, a set of twelve large murals by three artists that's considered one of the must-see attractions for history buffs.

Evening: Dinner & Music

Having had your fill of history and culture, it's time to experience some of the city's other main attractions. Derry~Londonderry has become something of a culinary hub in Northern Ireland, with a booming list of restaurants, bars, bistros and brasseries that will cater to all tastes and budgets.

Browns in Town is an award-winning Michelin recommended restaurant that's a must-try spot for serious foodies, renowned for fine casual dining, great quality food and superb specialty cocktails. For more relaxed eats, Scarpello & Co is a local favourite that serves handcrafted sourdough pizzas and pastries, while Pyke'N'Pommes is a unique street food spot by the riverfront known for its fully-loaded burgers and tacos.

After dinner, grab a drink at one of the city's many pubs and bars. Peadar O'Donnell's is a lively pub famous for its nightly traditional music sessions and solid pints of Guinness, while Sandino's bar is a quirky cultural hub and one of Derry~Londonderry's major live music venues that hosts everything from trad to jazz, world music and more.

For something different, Walled City Brewery is an award-winning brewhouse located in a historic military barracks at the end of the Peace Bridge. With a wide range of signature craft beers created on site - including the brilliantly-named Cherry~Londoncherry - the brewery also offers delicious food and a classic cocktail selection.

Step Into Ulster's Past In The Sperrins & Tyrone

Day 4: Co. Tyrone & Sperrin Mountains

Day four of the itinerary deliberately changes the pace, swapping city centre bustle for open uplands, ancient forest and one of Northern Ireland's most unmissable heritage attractions.

Whether you'd prefer a peaceful escape, an active adventure or the chance to reconnect with deep-rooted history and heritage, County Tyrone and the Sperrins tick all the boxes. There are a number of places to stay in the area, including camping and caravanning if you want to explore the wilderness, though there's also plenty of options for hotels, unique self-catering stays, guest houses and much more.

The town of Omagh is an ideal place to base yourself. Lively and welcoming with plenty of pubs, bars and restaurants, it's also centrally-located with straightforward road routes from Derry~Londonderry. However, it's worth nothing that public transport becomes more limited with no direct rail link to Omagh or the Sperrins, but bus options are available.

Morning: Gortin Glen Forest Park

Just six miles from Omagh, Gortin Glen Forest Park is the ideal spot for a taste of the Sperrins and to immerse yourself in the beauty of County Tyrone's western landscape. With stunning views of the surrounding area, the park features five waymarked trails of varying lengths and difficulty - including the Mullaghcarn Trail which will take you to visit Darach, Guardian of the Sperrins and one of the three mythical giant sculptures that call the Sperrin Mountains their home.

Families with young children will enjoy the large playpark area, while those with a thirst for off-road adventure can get to grips with over 14km of dedicated mountain bike trails including the challenging Red Trails. The Forest Park is the ideal spot for a picnic or BBQ if the weather's good, while there's also an on-site café serving drinks, hot food and traybakes on Saturdays and Sundays.

Bus connections are available from Omagh Bus Station to the park, with timetables available via the Translink website, but visiting by car is recommended for best flexibility. If you're taking the car, the forest park can also be explored via a five-mile scenic drive. The route includes a number of vista points you can pull in at to enjoy the magnificent scenery and grab a snap for the 'gram.

Afternoon: Ulster American Folk Park

The links between Tyrone and the US are strong - the county is home to the ancestral homesteads of two former US Presidents, Ulysses S. Grant and Woodrow Wilson - but there's nowhere these historical connections come to life more than at the Ulster American Folk Park.

An immersive open-air museum that tells the story of Ulster people’s emigration to North America in the 18th and 19th centuries, the park features over 30 faithfully reconstructed homes, log cabins, buildings and a full-scale emigrant ship. The unique experience includes characters dressed in authentic costume who will show you traditional crafts, share their stories and even some of their food. Allow two to three hours at a minimum to experience this must-see attraction as you step back in time and into the shoes of those who journeyed across the Atlantic hundreds of years ago.

Pre-booking is available via the Folk Park's website and is recommended during the busy summer months. If you're travelling from Omagh via public transport, Translink runs bus connections from Omagh to the park via the Ulsterbus 97 and 273 Metrobus services.

If exploring the deep-rooted connections between Northern Ireland and the United States sparks your interest, you can discover more stories, places and experiences celebrating these shared links as part of the America 250 trail, marking the 250th anniversary of the US.

Evening: Overnight in Omagh

Omagh is a lively and bustling market town, with a number of great places to eat, drink and relax before continuing your journey the next morning. Sallys of Omagh is a local institution, with a great reputation for good food, premium drinks and a charming, traditional atmosphere. The front bar hosts live music on Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays, while if you're feeling like letting your hair down the two-floor nightclub hosts DJs every Saturday night.

The Kitchen is a local favourite for brunch and lunch, while Bogans Bar on Market St is a go-to spot for proper pub grub, a solid pint and regular live music including traditional music sessions.

Discover Hidden Gems In Fermanagh's Lakelands

Day 5: Co. Fermanagh & Enniskillen

County Fermanagh is defined by water. With almost a third of its landscape covered by waterways, from the serenity of quiet lakesides to the otherworldly awe of subterranean caverns hewn deep into the county's bedrock, it's a giant adventure and a giant retreat all in one.

At the heart of it is Enniskillen, the only island town on the island of Ireland. Packed with welcoming pubs, restaurants, riverside cafes and coffee spots, plus attractions and activities to suit all visitors it's the perfect starting point for your adventure.

Enniskillen town is straightforward to access regardless of which direction you're approaching from, whether by car, public transport or even by boat. There's also a wide choice of places to stay, from luxurious hotels and lodges to gorgeous guest houses, stunning options for camping and glamping, to a range of memorable and unique self-catering stays.

Morning: Coffee, Brunch & Enniskillen Town

Once you arrive in Enniskillen, it's the perfect opportunity to grab brunch and a coffee from one of the town's many cafés and bakehouses. FOLK Espresso & Boulangerie is a popular spot for its coffee and French-inspired artisanal pastries, while Lydia is a family-run bakery that specialises in brunch, cakes, cupcakes and artisanal breads.

From there, take a trip into Enniskillen town. There's lots to see and do, from sightseeing to shopping, and it's also packed with history: the area around Lough Erne has been inhabited since before the bronze age, while Enniskillen Castle has been standing at the heart of the town for nearly 600 years.

The castle itself is open to the public, with the historic site housing two museums, plus galleries, displays and exhibitions that document Enniskillen's history and military heritage. Or, for something a little different, you can hop on a Hydrobike to explore the castle and neighbouring Castle Island from the River Erne itself.

Afternoon: Explore Erne From The Water

Fermanagh's lakes and rivers are a world-class destination for anglers and boaters, while the abundance of outdoor space and plenty of places to rent bikes and kayaks means there's lots of freedom to roam, paddle, sail and explore safely.

Kids will love the variety of activities on offer at Castle Archdale Country Park - including canoeing, kayaking, hydrobiking and even water trampolining - while the park also features beautiful woodland walks, an insect garden and wildflower meadow.

Or, take a boat trip across the Erne to Devenish Island, a 6th-century monastic site that's only accessible by water and home to some of the island of Ireland's most evocative and best-preserved ancient ruins. Erne Tours runs regular trips throughout the day during the summer season, with the tour lasting approximately 1 hour 45 minutes. For a more bespoke experience, Erne Water Taxi offers a private, chauffeur-driven boat tour with personalised experiences for small groups led by knowledgeable local guides.

Afternoon: Marble Arch Caves

As an alternative, swap the waterways of Fermanagh for an underground adventure. Approximately 12 miles southwest of Enniskillen, the Marble Arch Caves - a labyrinth of limestone caves, subterranean rivers and rare geological formations beneath the green hills of Cuilcagh Mountain - are one of Northern Ireland's most spectacular natural attractions.

Embark on a tour through the winding passages and vast underground chambers formed by the most active river cave system in the UK and Ireland, with expert guides on hand to bring the caves' story - and those of its brave explorers - to life. The tour takes approximately 75 minutes and, water levels permitting, your ticket will also include a short boat trip along the underground river which is highly recommended.

If you've still got a thirst for adventure afterwards, the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail - also known as the Stairway to Heaven - starts from the Marble Arch Caves visitor centre and ascends to a viewing platform on the summit of Cuilcagh mountain. The 4-mile trail is a moderate hike that followings a linear route along the famous boardwalks, taking between two and five hours depending on fitness.

From the platform, you'll experience breathtaking views over the surrounding lowlands with a truly show-stopping panorama. If the weather is on your side, time your descent to catch the sunset: the views at golden hour from this elevation aren’t something you’ll forget in a hurry.

Evening: Dinner In Enniskillen

Enniskillen has earned a name for itself as a serious destination for foodies, so there are plenty of options for dinner and drinks in the evening.

The Firehouse is one of Enniskillen’s most popular spots that's known for its stone-baked pizza oven, great food, good energy and a cracking cocktail menu. Other local favourites include Franco's, a modern Italian restaurant that serves great pasta, and Dollakis which serves fantastic Greek and Mediterranean food made using locally-sourced ingredients.

Afterwards, enjoy a drink or two in one of Enniskillen’s many lively pubs and bars. Charlie’s Bar is a beloved local institution with live music at the weekends and a proper open-fire atmosphere, while Blakes of the Hollow is a Victorian pub that’s remaining largely untouched since 1887. It’s home to one of the Game of Thrones Doors which is a great reason to pop your head in, while the pints of Guinness are a great reason to stay.

Finally, The Crowes Nest is one of the oldest bars on the high street and a firm favourite for its hearty pub grub, live music and buzzy atmosphere. The perfect spot to chat with the locals and soak in the atmosphere before turning in for the night.

Unearth Ancient History In Armagh

Day 6: Co. Armagh

From Fermanagh, the route turns east towards Armagh. The Orchard County may be Northern Ireland's smallest, but it delivers some of the biggest experiences. Known for its warm welcome and rich history, it's the ideal spot for a memorable day trip.

Famously synonymous with Saint Patrick, who founded his first stone church here in 445AD, there are sacred sites and historic cathedrals peppered right across the county. It's also renowned for its woodlands and orchards, including world-class cider and the famous Armagh Bramley Apple.

Staying overnight? There are plenty of accommodation in Armagh options to explore, from city centre hotels to luxury resorts, cosy cottages, guest houses and more.

Morning: Explore Armagh City

Once you've dropped your bags and got settled, it's time to explore Armagh city on foot. The historic and spiritual heart of Christianity in Ireland, Armagh has served as the island's ecclesiastical capital for over 1,500 years and both of the hilltop cathedrals that overlook the city are dedicated to St. Patrick.

Both the St. Patrick's Church of Ireland Cathedral and St. Patrick's Catholic Cathedral are well worth a look, each packed with history, legend and interesting architecture. Given their locations, the views from either building are well worth the climbing effort and also provide a great excuse to stop off for some refreshment in one of Armagh's many cafés and coffee spots when you're done.

A short walk away is the Armagh Robinson Library, a beautiful 18th century library built by Archbishop Robinson. The stunning Georgian building is lined from floor to ceiling with over 42,000 rare works that cover subjects as varied as early medicine to history, law, theology and ancient maps and atlases - as well as Jonathan Swift's personal copy of Gulliver's Travels from 1726, with corrections made by the author's own hand.

Afternoon: Navan Centre & Fort

A short journey outside the city, Navan Centre & Fort is where myth and reality meet. The ancient seat of Kings, Ulster's earliest capital and the stronghold of mythical heroes Cú Chulainn and the Red Branch Knights, it's one of the most important archaeological sites on the island of Ireland and a must-see place to visit.

With engaging and interactive experiences - including the Celts and warriors going about their daily routines - you'll unearth ancient treasures, learn about legendary tales and get up close and personal with amazing historical artefacts including an original piece of 2,000-year old timber from the great temple of Emain Macha.

For lunch, the centre has an on-site coffee shop that serves refreshments including tea and coffee, breakfast and hot lunch made from locally-sourced ingredients.

Afternoon: Experience Armagh's Famous Cider

Armagh isn’t known as the Orchard County for nothing. Home to an estimated 4,000 hectares of orchards and the famous Armagh Bramley variety, the apples grown here are used to make award-winning juices, craft ciders, cider vinegars and other produce renowned for its exceptional quality.

To experience the blossom-to-bottle process first hand - and enjoy a tasting or two along the way - there are a number of guided tours and experiences available within a short distance of Armagh city. Long Meadow Cider is a family-run farm where you can get a behind-the-scenes look at life on a working orchard and gain insight into how apples are harvested and processed. You'll also get the opportunity to learn how to make your own traditional soda bread, and then enjoy it paired with local cheeses, chutneys and Long Meadow's own craft ciders and juices.

For a slightly different perspective, Armagh Cider Company offers the chance to get under the skin of cider-making with guided tours of their home farm and production facility. From blossom to bottle, follow the process from harvesting to pressing, fermentation to maturation, and finally to the bottling plant. You'll get the chance to try all the different ciders and juices, learning about how various blends are made and given guidance on how to taste the differences between each.

Evening: Spend The Night In Armagh

There are any number of places to eat and drink in Armagh where you can relax and refuel after a day's exploring, from restaurants to unique bars and pubs where you can enjoy a taste of Armagh's famous cider.

The award-winning Uluru Bar & Grill in the city's historic marketplace is a neighbourhood-style restaurant that serves up a taste of Armagh-via-Australia. Built around the charcoal grill at the heart of the kitchen, expect an Aussie-inspired menu made using locally sourced ingredients and an extensive wine list. On The Hoof is a BBQ restaurant located just outside the city that's known for its casual vibe and delicious slow-cooked meats, while the charming stone-built Mulberry Bistro is a great option for lunch during the day.

Afterwards, the Hole In The Wall on Market Street is a unique, historic pub built inside a former jail. It's a popular venue for live music and - reportedly - even home to a ghost or two. Keegan's Bar & Restaurant is a family-run pub that's well known for good food, great craic and plenty of live music including country and blues bands, and DJ sets on the weekends.

Explore The Mournes & County Down Coast

Day 7: Co. Down & Mourne Mountains

After a busy few days, the Mourne and County Down leg of the itinerary is all about slowing down, soaking in the scenery of one of Northern Ireland's most visually spectacular and varied counties, and taking the long way around - intentionally.

From Armagh city it's a straight road to Newry and onto the Mourne coastal route. You can choose to do as much - or as little - as you like, whether that's hiking the famous Mourne Mountains, seeking out Down's many hidden gems and cosy spots, or simply sitting by the beach watching the world go by, ice cream in hand.

Stay overnight in Newcastle, a classic seaside town that sits directly in the shadow of Slieve Donard. From high-end hotels to unique self-catering stays, luxury glamping, B&Bs and more, the town has plenty of accommodation options whether you're staying on your own, with a group or with the family.

Morning: Savour The Mourne Coast

Tracing the coastal route along the southern fringe of the Mournes will take you east through the Victorian seaside town of Rostrevor. Facing directly out across Carlingford Lough, the town is cosy and picturesque with plenty of coffee and breakfast spots that are well worth a stop to fuel up for the day ahead.

Keen walkers will enjoy the nearby Kilbroney Forest Park - home to the famous Kodak Corner viewpoint - while a little further around the coast is Kilkeel, a small fishing village famed for its local catch that ends up on menus right across the region.

There's plenty to see and do along the route should you wish, including the spectacular Silent Valley Mountain Park, but this section of the itinerary is intentionally loose. Take your time, admire the views of the water to your right and the Mourne peaks to your left, stop off as often you feel like it and enjoy a slower pace after a busy few days travelling.

Afternoon: Newcastle & Tollymore Forest Park

By early afternoon you'll have arrived in Newcastle. With a wide, sandy beach and a scenic promenade that runs the length of the seafront, one of the best things to do in this popular coastal town is to simply grab a coffee or an ice cream from one of the numerous cafés and coffee houses and take a stroll through town. There's amusement parks and playgrounds for kids, plus a great selection of restaurants and bars; local seafood is a specialty given the proximity to Kilkeel harbour.

Alternatively, why not immerse yourself in one of Northern Ireland's most scenic forest parks. Covering an area of almost 630 hectares at the foot of the Mournes, Tollymore Forest Park is home to a number of walking trails and plenty of natural curiosities. TV buffs will recognise it as the site of several key filming locations in Game of Thrones, while kids can enjoy the large wooden play area and safely splash in shallow waters and along stepping stones.

Afternoon: Explore the Mournes

If you're feeling more adventurous, the Mourne Mountains are among Northern Ireland's most iconic hiking destinations. Known for their rugged granite peaks, sweeping coastal views on a clear day and the famous Mourne Wall, routes range from well-marked paths suitable for beginners to challenging, navigation-heavy terrain that's ideal for experienced hikers.

Casual walkers will enjoy the straightforward up-and-down path of Slieve Croob, which offers panoramic views across County Down and the rest of the Mournes, while the Bloody Bridge river route - a shorter alternative to the full Slieve Donard walk - is also highly popular during the summer. Those with experience might consider tackling Slieve Binnian or Bearnagh, regarded as the most challenging peaks with rugged boulders, loose rocky sections and some scrambling on hands and knees required.

Sturdy footwear and waterproof layers are recommended for all mountain walks regardless of the season and weather forecast. The more beginner-friendly hikes are easy to self navigate, but if you're a first-time visitor and would like to tackle one of the tougher peaks it's advisable to join a walking group or tour.

Evening: Overnight In Newcastle

End the day with dinner and drinks in one of Newcastle's numerous eateries. The Percy French is a local favourite that serves pub classics and a traditional Sunday roast - and is also home to one of the Game of Thrones 'Journey of Doors' wooden doors - while Villa Vinci is well regarded for its Italian and Mediterranean cuisine featuring locally-caught seafood.

If you're hunting for a local trad session or two, Macken's Bar close to the harbour is a traditional pub that hosts lively traditional Irish music, jam sessions and open mic nights in the evenings.

Unwind Along The Ards Peninsula

Day 8: Strangford & Ards Peninsula

The final day of the itinerary follows a natural northbound route from Newcastle to Downpatrick, and on to Strangford Lough and the Ards Peninsula.

Quieter, greener and more pastoral than the rugged mountainscapes of South Down, it's a relaxed and easygoing route that's got something for everyone before you return to Belfast. If you're in no rush to return home, why not treat yourself to a final overnight stay: there's any number of fantastic places to stay in the area, from luxury hotels and estates if you fancy splurging a little, to charming B&Bs, picturesque self-catering, to guest houses, campsites and more.

Morning: Downpatrick

As the town most associated with St. Patrick on the island of Ireland, Downpatrick is packed with history and is well worth a morning stop to explore after breakfast.

In the heart of the town is the Saint Patrick Centre, which tells the story of the saint's life and his connection to the area through an engaging exhibition. Down Cathedral is a few minutes walk further up the hill, where an understated granite slab in the churchyard is traditionally identified as the grave of Patrick himself.

For a look at the broader history of the area, the Down County Museum is located in the former county gaol on English Street, while the ruins of the 12th century Inch Abbey are a five-minute drive or a short walk away from the town centre.

Afternoon: Strangford Ferry & Mount Stewart

In the afternoon, continue your journey to Strangford - a pretty harbour village with a castle tower house at the water's edge and scenic views across the Lough to Portaferry. There's also a number of cafés and restaurants to grab lunch in, including the Cuan Restaurant & Hotel, the Artisan Cookhouse bistro or the Lobster Pot restaurant which serves local seafood.

After lunch, no journey to the Ards Peninsula is complete without catching the Strangford Ferry. The ferry runs every half hour, with the crossing itself taking approximately 10 minutes. Enjoy views across the narrows where Strangford Lough meets the Irish Sea, and spot marine flora and fauna in one of the most biodiverse areas in the region, including porpoises, otters, seals and seabirds. No pre-booking is required and tickets for the ferry can be purchased on board.

From Portaferry, the road trails the western shore of Strangford Lough for much of the way, passing through small villages and past the inlets and headlands of the lough shore.

Take your time and soak in the views, with stops along the way that include Mount Stewart - an elegant National Trust property with extraordinary gardens that are among the finest in Northern Ireland - and the ruins of Greyabbey, a well-preserved 12th century Cistercian abbey that's set in open grounds and a great spot to stretch the legs and admire the scenery before the final stop of the journey.

Evening: Overnight In North Down

From here, you have a number of options. Newtownards - commonly known as Ards - offers a direct route back to Belfast city centre by car or bus, with a journey time of approximately 40 minutes.

But if you're in no rush to get home, our recommendation would be to extend your stay with one final night. The seaside town of Bangor is a few miles north of Newtownards and features a direct train link back to Belfast that stops in many of North Down's most picturesque villages and towns including Crawfordsburn, Holywood and Cultra. There's any number of great places to stay and round off your trip, from the Culloden Estate and Spa to The Old Inn or Clandeboye Lodge Hotel if you're looking to indulge in a spa experience, to self-catered apartments, guest houses, B&Bs and more.

There's also numerous coffee houses, bistros and restaurants in the area - including the Bib Gourmand recommended Noble and the award-winning Dirty Duck Alehouse in Holywood - making it the ideal spot for dinner and drinks, before turning in for the night and arriving back in the city the following morning.

Explore More Of Northern Ireland From The Fleadh

Belfast is an excellent base for the Fleadh and for Northern Ireland as a whole. The region is small enough that almost everything worth seeing is within two hours of the city centre.

The Causeway Coastal Route is roughly an hour north of Belfast and home to some of Northern Ireland's most iconic destinations and dramatic landscapes. To the south is Co. Down, with the Mourne Mountains, Ards Peninsula and Strangford Lough. The walled city of Derry~Londonderry is a scenic train journey away to the north-west, while Co. Fermanagh's stunning lakelands and waterways offer a slower pace of life, roughly 90 minutes' drive to the south-west.

Co. Armagh and Co. Tyrone both offer culture and historical interest in abundance within an hour and half of Belfast. Armagh city is the island of Ireland's ecclesiastical capital, with two cathedrals and ancient Iron Age settlements, while in Tyrone outdoor adventure and the chance to reconnect with history and heritage awaits.