How to Staycation in Belfast

Summertime is well and truly here in Belfast, and, in the grand tradition, we’re sure your mind is turning towards thoughts of getting away from it all. But with travel overseas now becoming more expensive and stressful, does it spell the end of summer holidays?  

Not if you know how to staycation, it doesn’t!  

The Rise of the Staycation  

From Southport to Strabane, more and more people across Britain and Northern Ireland are choosing to check out what’s in their local areas for the summer rather than venture overseas.  

In 2019, the corporate arm of Barclays Bank dove into the emerging trend for holidaying at home, finding that three in ten British holidaymakers were planning to spend their vacation time on home soil. And no, it wasn’t just the SAGA brigade preferring to holiday closer to home, 52% of the 25 to 34-year-olds surveyed by the bank planned to increase their Great British holiday time.  

Since then, Staycation numbers have been rising steadily year on year, and now, in 2022, the trend has reached its peak. According to iNews, several UK holiday specialists have seen a surge in demand, with bookings for August 2022 already up by 35% compared to 2019.  

It’s not just the cost-effectiveness or convenience of spending vacation time on familiar territory; for many, staying closer to home means a more enjoyable time on their much-needed summer break. According to the Barclays survey, 21% of people planning staycations do so for a more fulfilling experience.  

How to do it right in Belfast  

Hopefully, you’re now feeling inspired to plan your own staycation. Since this is all about exploring Belfast in a new way, you get to call the shots when it comes to your itinerary. As you’ll discover when you read on, there’s a lot more to see and do here in Norn Iron than you think, so it helps if you plan a theme for your ‘stayaway’.  

From weekends with your besties to a romantic break with your significant other, here’s the lowdown on how to do staycations the right way in Belfast.  

Weekends with Friends 

Has it been a while since you and your tribe have had some good ol’ quality time? If that’s the case, you need to book a staycation weekend – STAT! Belfast is the ideal place for a city break, thanks to the wealth of swanky hotels and luxurious resorts within easy reach.  

If you’ve got the budget, splash out on a suite to share at Malmaison Hotel Belfast, which will put you at the perfect distance from the most happening hangouts. Head to the Angel & Two Bibles speakeasy for a night on the town in style. The following day, why not book some R&R at The Spa at Merchant Hotel before heading to Killeavy Castle Estate to admire its stunning grounds.  

A Dash of Romance 

Whether you’ve been together 50 days or 50 years, treat your other half to a romantic staycation in Belfast with all the city has to offer.  

For the ultimate in decadence and luxury, a suite at Hastings Grand Central Hotel will do just fine. If you can tear yourself away from the awe-inspiring views you’ll see from its floor-to-ceiling windows; then it’s time to explore the Cathedral Quarter. As you walk the quaint cobbled streets, keep an eye out for cosy galleries and cafes to while away a few hours in. When it comes to a special dinner for two, head to Josper’s or Coppi for the finest contemporary cuisine Belfast has to offer. 

For Culture Fiends 

Think you know Belfast’s history and culture pretty well? Think again! With a culture-themed staycation, you’ll be able to discover new sides of the city and learn about its long history.  

Belfast has plenty of walking tours on offer that you could easily pack a full day with. The 1798 Walking Tour, for instance, will transport you to 18th-century Ireland in the blink of an eye. Try not to wake the dead on the Clifton House tour of Clifton Street Cemetery. With graves dating back to 1797, this hallowed ground is the final resting place of thousands of poor souls in unmarked graves.  

Head to the James Connolly Visitor Centre to learn about the life and vision of this remarkable political activist before putting your feet up in a cosy room at George Best House.