Northern Ireland 

BELFAST

EAT

KAFFE O: This Scandi coffee shop (in the young area of town near the gorgeous Queens University) makes really good coffee, has delicious coffee and healthy-ish sweets like an espresso traybake featuring a date crust in lieu of the classic crushed biscuit layer. Staff is nice and the atmosphere is bright and serene. 
411 Ormeau Road, Belfast, BT7 3GP | +44 02890 642434

MADE IN BELFAST: Tyler & I always have to tuck in a date here when we go to Belfast. It’s definitely our favourite restaurant- cool interiors, local food and a location right next to our favourite hotel in Belfast. Not only that, but now it has loads of great memories, too. Don’t miss it the chance to eat here when you’re in town. Reservations a must.
City Hall: 1-2 Wellington Street, Belfast, BT1 6HT | +44 02890 246712

SAWERS: This is a place that will be a favourite for ours for years. It’s the perfect lunch spot for us- as it has so many good options for everyone, fabulous surroundings being sat alongside the heaving shelves of this this delightful international deli, and the food is a great value. If the weather is nice, sit outside under the awning for a good view of local Belfast life passing by. (Oh and definitely get a cup of tea and one of the homemade Malteser traybakes. My favourite!)
Fountain Centre, College St, Belfast BT1 6ES | +44 28 9032 2021

HOME: The food in Ireland can be a bit heavy, to be honest. Check out HOME if you’re looking for healthy, plant-based options in a great, airy setting near city hall.
22 Wellington Pl, Belfast BT1 6GE | +44 28 9023 4946

JAMES STREET SOUTH BAR & GRILL: If you’re looking for a swanky lunch out or a nice date night, James Street South’s Bar + Grill is a good option. Think good meats, handmade pasta presented with attention and artistic display. 
19 James St S, Belfast BT2 7GA | +44 28 9560 0700

BUSHMILL'S INN: While you’re out at the Giants Causeway, plan to stop for lunch at the famous Bushmills Inn. With cosy nooks and hearty food, it’s a great stop. The inn may look tiny off the main road in Bushmills, but when you wander back- you’ll see how expansive the site really is. Also, if you go on a Sunday- you’ll be there for their legendary roast. It’s served on a buffet… and MASSIVE. Your plates will be piled higher than Christmas dinner. It’s insane and so, so good.
9 Dunluce Rd, Bushmills BT57 8QG | +44 28 2073 3000

DO 

THE TITANIC MUSEUM: You can’t go all the way to Belfast and not make it to the Titanic Museum. It’s just too rich of a part of the city’s history- and the museum is top rate. It’s perfect for all ages, and, hey- it even has a ride. The cafes are really nice, so you can plan to have lunch or coffee/snacks there without feeling the need to compromise on yucky museum food. The location by the harbour sets the scene for the fated ship perfectly.
1 Olympic Way, Queens Road, Belfast, BT3 9EP | +44 02890 766386

THE GIANT'S CAUSEWAY: So this place isn’t exactly a playground or theme park, but it’s great for kids in the fact that they can roam/explore and you won’t be too nervous for their safety. The rocks are like little steps and easy to help them navigate by holding their hands. The coast is there, but it’s so far out that they can’t run there too quickly without you noticing. The visitor’s centre has some nice children activities and, when all else fails while you’re teaching them of the folklore surround Finn McCool, there are sheep that graze along the fences of the property. Voila. All you really need for a fun day out. The Giant's Causeway is about an hour and ten minutes from Belfast. It’s an easy drive, but you will need a car. 
44 Causeway Rd, Bushmills BT57 8SU

STAY

THE FITZWILLIAM HOTEL: I can’t tell you how much I enjoy staying in this hotel. The rooms are so luxurious and fab, and the price is always a steal compared to London. The breakfast in the morning is fabulous- complete with a full buffet, hot menu items, fresh espresso coffees… and sightings of the Game of Thrones cast when they are staying there while they film in NI. (Shhh, you didn’t hear it from me.)
1-3 Great Victoria Street, Belfast, BT2 7BQ | +44 02890 442080