In Things to do

Northern Ireland is one of Britain’s hidden gems, full of beautiful scenery, memorable sights thanks to shows like Game of Thrones and of course the incredible cities of Derry and Belfast, both with their own charms.

If you’re planning a visit to Northern Ireland, here are some of the best places to experience the beauty of the area, while also being accessible.

Giant’s Causeway, Antrim
BT57 8SU

Managed by the National Trust, Giant’s Causeway is perhaps one of the most famous visitor attractions in the whole of Northern Ireland. Both the visitor centre and the green trail are fully accessible and there is a Changing Places facility onsite too.

Somerset Forest, Coleraine
BT52 1JR

Somerset Forest is graded as a white route, which means it is suitable for all visitors. Start off at the carpark where you’ll find a wheelchair accessible path which will take you on a scenic route that will bring you back to the starting point.

Valley Park loop, Newtonabbey, Antrim
BT36 7LS

This short walk is a circular trail around a city park, featuring a paved pathway, easy to navigate terrain and can be completed in around half an hour.

The route is suitable for wheelchairs and other mobility aids and is dog friendly, you’ll even find a dog park at the northern end of the route. The route takes you through several pretty areas, including parts of a forest. It’s a lovely way to see some of the scenery and experience both the hustle of the city and the tranquillity of the countryside.

There is parking and the loop starts and ends here and there are toilets and other facilities in the onsite leisure centre.

Oxford Island Nature Reserve, County Armagh
BT66 6NJ

Designed with accessibility in mind, there are a host of bird watching hides, accessible walking trails and a host of other accessible things to do while you explore. It’s a lovely place to enjoy nature and you can easily spend several hours here. There are accessible toilet facilities, as well as level access around the visitor centre.

Another of the reasons to visit Northern Ireland is to spend time at the beach. In Northern Ireland, there are five inclusive beaches which are managed in partnership with Mae Murray Foundation and the beaches themselves. These beaches offer free loan schemes with all terrain wheelchairs and mobility aids available, as well as toilet facilities and eateries close to the beach.

These accessible beaches are:

Portrush
Portstewart Strand
Benone Strand
Cranfield Beach
Groomsport Bay

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