+34Driven by Adventure, Inspired by Defender. We’re planning a road trip to Belfast to sample its food scene and design spots, and wander its bustling
Driven by Adventure, Inspired by Defender. We’re planning a road trip to Belfast to sample its food scene and design spots, and wander its bustling streets.
Set within a Georgian terrace in the leafy Queen’s Quarter – near Queen’s University, the Botanic Gardens, and the Ulster Museum – Regency House is a boutique hotel that has recently come under new stewardship. Stylish bedrooms and resident spaces, and a new restaurant focusing on local produce are all great reasons to visit, not to mention the carefully restored character that sits alongside warm, inviting interior touches.
It’s no surprise that it was the first venue in Northern Ireland to receive the prestigious Michelin Key. This Victorian townhouse in the Queen’s Quarter is a maximalist’s dream, with luxe wallpaper, sumptuous fabrics and intriguing curios in every unique bedroom. Each room honours an extraordinary Irish person, from playwrights and artists to inventors and travellers.
As well as a place to stay, it also hosts exhibitions, live music, and theatre events, so check their schedule and time your visit accordingly. Located in the historic Titanic Quarter, beside Titanic Belfast visitor attraction, Titanic Hotel offers a unique location, whilst having the city at your fingertips. The building was once the Harland & Wolff Drawing Offices – the very place where RMS Titanic was designed, and still retains the character of this historic space.
It’s also great for kids, with family packages available and several attractions nearby. Coffee lovers should head to Neighbourhood Café in the trendy Cathedral Quarter for some of the best serves in the city, and while you’re there, it would be rude not to sample their beloved brunch and lunch offering – expect to queue at the weekend, but it’s well worth the wait.
For dinner, head to the coastal town of Holywood just outside the city where you’ll find Frae, a buzzy wine bar and restaurant serving superlative sharing plates. The regularly changing menu is always full of unexpected and imaginative dishes. With a produce-led menu of small plates and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s no surprise this Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant is a locals’ favourite.
Chef Lottie Noren focuses on dishes that are simple, yet pack a punch on flavour, while the service is always friendly. You’ll find it in the Cathedral Quarter. Amy Anderson was inspired by her family’s past in Northern Ireland’s linen industry to start her brand, Kindred of Ireland, which features handcrafted pieces in Irish linen and tweed.
Now with its own shop on Hill Street, make sure to pay a visit to peruse her gorgeous range, from floaty dresses to statement jackets and wear-forever coats. Truly the perfect Belfast souvenir. A stalwart of the Belfast fashion scene since 2007, Envoy of Belfast has an exquisite edit of pieces from brands such as Simone Rocha, Acne Studios, Margaret Howell and Dries Van Noten.
Owner Ruth Spence chooses pieces for their distinctive design, fabric, and craftsmanship, and it’s obvious from the second you walk through the door. Known across the island as a design destination, Maven is an interiors store set in an old bank building on the Lisburn Road. Not only do they have the most stylish range of international brands for you to peruse, but their helpful team are also happy to offer advice.
It’s the perfect place to pick up a memento from your trip, from candles and cards to portable lamps and chic door mats. The Defender is the best in class when it comes to road trips. A master of extreme performance and exploration that will take you anywhere , it’s a car that was made for adventure.
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