As an international student, I can say that Northern Ireland is a hidden gem that’s tucked away in the Northwest corner of the UK (and is underappreciated).

What should international students know before coming to NI?

The Ulster Museum

A classic that you must visit, the Ulster Museum is a must see for anyone who visits Northern Ireland. It's located right next to Botanic Gardens, so a perfect stop on your tour around the gardens. Entry is free and there is a lot of exhibits for art, history, natural science and many more. I do recommend international students to visit the Ulster Museum, especially to learn more about Northern Ireland’s history and its impact today.

They also have kid-friendly spots where they can be engaged and so can their parents (no age restriction!) My personal favourite is the Egyptian exhibit and their art gallery. This museum is also very accessible with ramps and elevators.

Botanic Gardens, located right beside the main Queen's campus

Titanic Belfast

Titanic Belfast is a museum that’s located in Titanic Quarter, near the River Lagan. Titanic Belfast is also a must visit for all students and visitors to learn more about the construction of the Titanic, the voyage, the passengers and the survivors.

I should also mention that it is excellent for people with accessibility needs. They cater to people with autism (aids, headphones, carers, etc), they also have wide spacing for wheelchairs to get through and lifts to get to different floors. 

BLOG: Come with Me to the Titanic Museum in Belfast

Stormont

Stormont is what most people call the Parliament Buildings in Belfast and it’s a nice place to visit for a lovely walk. Only a short bus ride away from the city centre, you can take a lovely weekend stroll to the beautiful building and enjoy the sunshine (depending on the weather of course!) The paths are wide and accessible for anyone with a wheelchair who wants to go as well.

Stormont Belfast

Newry

I was privileged enough to be placed at Daisy Hill Hospital for my placement (I’m a medical student) and I was able to walk around the city centre and explore the area a bit. It’s a lovely little town and I recommend having a dander around the area, they have lovely cafés and walks along the main river (it’s especially beautiful at night).

Newry city centre

Portrush Beach

Portrush is a lovely seaside town with a lot of fun things to do for students, kids and families. They have a lovely beach to visit, an amusement park and coastal walks. It’s a very picturesque scene that I recommend everyone visits at least once. If the beach isn’t for you, then the amusement park, Curry’s (previously called Barry’s) would also make a fun day out. And finally, the beautiful coastal walks are another way to make your Portrush visit worth it.

Giant’s Causeway

This a classic, must-visit, attraction in Northern Ireland and I highly recommend all new students visit here. The walk up to the wonderful column like structures by the water is a moderate to easy hike and lovely during the summer weather. The green trail is also the accessible one for people with wheelchairs. This is a lovely place for pictures and a new phone wallpaper!

Take a trip to the Giant's Causeway

Marble Arch Caves

The Marble Arch Caves were such an interesting and fun place to visit. It was so interesting to see the formation of the cave and hear about the history of the cave as well. The caves are also a kid friendly place to visit, but warning, it is very dark inside the caves! Unfortunately, the caves themselves are not accessible, but there is a VR tour available for those interested. These are in Enniskillen, Northern Ireland and must not be missed.

Inside the Marble Arch Caves

Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge

The rope bridge has a lovely hike up to the viewpoint for a view of Northern Ireland’s beautiful coast. They do have wheelchair accessible bathrooms available but unfortunately, the bridge itself is not accessible. Located in Ballycastle, it’s a lovely car ride up the coast to get to this bridge. There’s also a car park and viewpoint if you want another view of the place.

NI's beautiful coast

Further reading:

• The Most Instagrammable Places in Northern Ireland
• Must-Visit Places in Northern Ireland: A North Coast Adventure
• Top Budget Day Trips in Northern Ireland
• My Favourite Must-Visit Spots in Northern Ireland

Find out more

Queen's Accessibility Guide

Student life in Belfast

Living in Northern Ireland

Canada: Admissions Guide

Manasa Ramakrishna Medicine | Undergraduate Student | Canada I’m a 20-year-old international student from Canada and currently studying Medicine. I figured the best way to combine my love for science, travelling and working with people would be to do international medicine. Outside school, I do classical dance, sculpture and biking!