Dunmurry Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, hike, eat, stay, and more in Dunmurry, a charming town in County Antrim, Northern Ireland.


Introduction to Dunmurry

Located in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, Dunmurry is a charming town that boasts a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and a welcoming community. It is situated just a few miles southwest of Belfast, making it easily accessible to visitors. In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey to explore everything that Dunmurry has to offer. From culturally significant attractions to natural wonders and delicious local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this picturesque town.

List of Places to Visit in Dunmurry

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Dunmurry has a rich history that is steeped in Celtic and early Christian roots. Visitors can explore this history by visiting the many museums and historical sites that are scattered throughout the town. Some of the must-visit places include:

Natural Attractions of Dunmurry: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Dunmurry is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, allowing visitors to experience outdoor activities and scenic landscapes. The town is home to several parks and natural reserves that offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Some of the best places to visit include:

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dunmurry

Dunmurry is a hiker and biker’s paradise with scenic routes and trails for all skill levels. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes to check out:

  • Lagan Towpath – stretching 11 miles between Belfast and Lisburn, this riverside trail is perfect for cycling or walking while admiring the stunning views.
  • Divis Ridge Trail - a scenic trail along the hills and mountainside with breathtaking views of Belfast and beyond.
  • Cave Hill Trail – climbing the hill to see Cave Hill’s famous outline and superb views over Belfast Lough.

Best Things to Do in Dunmurry: Activities and Tours

Dunmurry has a variety of fun-filled activities and tours that will appeal to all types of travelers. Here are some of the top things to do in Dunmurry:

  • St. George’s Market - a popular indoor market filled with stalls selling fresh produce, local crafts, and street food from around the world.
  • Belfast Zoo - over 140 species of wildlife can be seen on this hilltop zoo.
  • Game of Thrones Tour – Map out Northern Ireland’s rugged coastline and spot the location of the HBO TV series Game of Thrones.
  • Titanic Belfast - an award-winning museum that tells the story of the RMS Titanic.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dunmurry

Here is an itinerary to follow for a week-long stay in Dunmurry:

Day 1: Arrival and Check-In

Spend your first day exploring the town of Dunmurry and get a sense of the unique charm and rich culture.

Day 2: Culturally Important Attractions

Visit museums and historical spots to learn about Dunmurry’s fascinating history.

Day 3: Hiking/Biking Routes

Experience the beautiful natural landscapes of Dunmurry by taking a hike or bike ride around some of the most popular routes.

Day 4: Food and Drink Scene

Indulge in some of the local cuisine and enjoy a pint of beer at one of the town’s cozy pubs.

Day 5: Local Activities and Tours

Find out what makes Dunmurry unique by taking part in one of the many local activities or tours available.

Day 6: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Explore nearby towns that offer unique experiences and sights.

Day 7: Farewell to Dunmurry

Spend your last day in Dunmurry visiting any missed attractions and saying goodbye to the town’s residents.

Food and Drink Scene of Dunmurry

Must-Try Dishes

Dunmurry has a variety of restaurants that offer an array of dishes, but here are the must-try dishes for visitors:

  • Ulster Fry - a hearty breakfast with eggs, bacon, sausages, black and white pudding, and fried bread.
  • Irish Stew - a warming comfort food made with lamb, vegetables, and potatoes.
  • Fish and Chips - while not originally from Northern Ireland or Belfast, it is still a favorite among locals and visitors.

Local Beverages

Dunmurry is no stranger to good pubs and refreshing beers. Check out these pubs and local breweries to experience the best in Dunmurry:

Where to Stay in Dunmurry: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Dunmurry has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay:

What to Buy in Dunmurry: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Dunmurry can find a variety of souvenirs and local products to commemorate their trip. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to buy:

  • Local artwork such as paintings and sculptures.
  • Handwoven linen products like tablecloths, towels, and napkins.
  • Traditional Irish souvenirs like Claddagh rings, Celtic crosses, and Irish linen.

Local Culture and Customs of Dunmurry

Dunmurry has a rich culture and welcoming community. Visitors should be aware of these customs during their stay:

  • Respect local customs and manners.
  • Show gratitude to locals who are helpful or provide a service.
  • Attend and enjoy local events and festivals to get a sense of the community.

Best Time to Visit Dunmurry

The best time to visit Dunmurry is between May to September since this is when the weather is the warmest. However, Dunmurry is a good place to visit all year round since it has various indoor museums and historical sites to enjoy in colder months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dunmurry

Do:

  • Do respect Dunmurry’s historic monuments and attractions.
  • Do be friendly and courteous to the locals.
  • Do enjoy the beautiful natural landscapes.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or vandalize the town’s attractions.
  • Don’t be disrespectful to the locals or their customs.
  • Don’t be loud or disorderly in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dunmurry

Dunmurry is generally safe for visitors, and crime levels are quite low. As with anywhere, it’s best to take necessary precautions such as locking your car and keeping valuables out of sight.

Health in Dunmurry

Dunmurry has various healthcare facilities for visitors who require medical assistance. The nearest hospital to Dunmurry is the Lagan Valley Hospital in Lisburn.

Getting to Dunmurry: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Dunmurry

Visitors traveling to Dunmurry by plane can choose from several airports, including:

  • Belfast International Airport - located around 20 minutes away from Dunmurry, visitors can easily get a taxi or bus to Dunmurry from the airport.
  • George Best Belfast City Airport - located about 15 minutes away from Dunmurry, visitors can easily get a taxi or bus to Dunmurry from the airport.

Bus Stations Near Dunmurry

Dunmurry has several public bus stations that provide easy access to Belfast and nearby towns. Visitors can use Translink’s Ulsterbus or Goldline services to travel to and from Dunmurry bus station.

Other Options

Visitors to Dunmurry can also make use of the public transportation system by taking the train to Dunmurry Railway Station, which is on the Belfast-Lisburn line. Taxis and rental cars are also available.

How to Get Around in Dunmurry

Dunmurry has a good public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and taxis that provide easy access to local attractions and nearby towns. Visitors can also rent a car to explore the town and surrounding areas at their leisure.

Where to Go Next from Dunmurry: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If visitors want to extend their trip beyond Dunmurry, here are some of the nearby towns and destinations that are worth exploring:

  • Belfast - just seven miles away from Dunmurry, visitors can easily take a bus or train ride to explore all that Belfast has to offer.
  • Lisburn - located just two miles away from Dunmurry, there is plenty to explore in this town, from its historical sites to its charming shops and restaurants.
  • Causeway Coastal Route - visitors can explore this awe-inspiring route through some of Northern Ireland’s most stunning landscapes, and see the world-famous Giant’s Causeway.

Conclusion

Dunmurry is undoubtedly one of Northern Ireland’s most welcoming towns. There’s so much to explore and discover in this charming town. Whether you’re into history, outdoor adventures, delicious local cuisine, or the modern city vibe of Belfast, Dunmurry has something for everyone. By following this guide, you’re sure to have a fantastic and memorable visit to this picturesque Northern Irish town.