A Day Trip to Belfast from Westview Cottage: Everything You Need to Know
One of the things that genuinely surprises guests when they stay at Westview Cottage is how close Belfast is. Cairnryan ferry port is just a 45-minute drive from Port William, and from there Stena Line runs a brilliant day trip service across to Belfast. It is one of those experiences that feels like a proper adventure and is absolutely worth doing if you get the chance.
Here is everything we know from doing it ourselves, including the things we wish someone had told us beforehand!
Getting There
The drive from the cottage to Cairnryan takes about 45 minutes. You need to arrive at the port at least 45 minutes before your sailing, so factor that in when you are planning your day. The 7.30am sailing is the one to aim for on a day trip as it gives you the most time in Belfast.
Check the Stena Line website before you book, as they regularly run day trip deals with foot passenger prices from as little as £20 return per person. Prices vary quite a bit, so it is worth keeping an eye on what is available.
Technically you need photo ID to travel, but we went without being asked. That said, we would always recommend having some form of photo ID with you just in case, as it is better to be safe than sorry.
The Boat
The ferry itself is genuinely brilliant and part of the experience. It is a large, modern, comfortable ship with plenty of space. There is a small cinema onboard for the children, PlayStation pods to keep them entertained, and a restaurant serving a good breakfast. We would recommend heading straight to the restaurant when you board, as it fills up quickly, and a good breakfast sets you up for the day ahead. The crossing takes around two hours and fifteen minutes.
Getting into Belfast
There is a bus service running from the port into Belfast city centre. However, when there are a few of you travelling together, a taxi can work out similarly priced and is a much better experience. Our cab driver was absolutely hilarious, knew the city inside out and gave us brilliant tips for where to go and what to see. Best decision we made all day, honestly.
What to Do in Belfast
The Titanic Museum is an absolute must. We went straight there, and it was one of the best museum experiences we have ever had as a family. It is genuinely astounding, creative, engaging and informative. We spent nearly two hours there and could easily have stayed longer. Our top tip is to get a taxi directly from the port to the Titanic Museum rather than walking, as it is further than it looks on a map!
After the Titanic Museum, make your way into the city centre and head to the Cathedral Quarter. This is where you will find Commercial Court, also known as Umbrella Street, which is a narrow cobbled lane covered in colourful fairy lights and umbrellas. It is lined with brilliant pubs and has featured in Line of Duty, Derry Girls and, more recently, a Netflix series. It looks absolutely magical at dusk when the lights come on. This is the street you will have seen in films and wondered where it was!
We visited just before Christmas, and the city centre was beautifully decorated. The Christmas market was on, but similar to markets you find elsewhere. The real magic was in the atmosphere and the decorations throughout the city.
Getting Back
This is our most important tip of the whole post. Do not leave getting a taxi back to the ferry to chance. We found it really difficult to get an Uber when we needed one and nearly caused ourselves some stress over it. Pre-book your taxi or Uber for a set time and location well before you need to leave for the port. Missing the ferry is not an option! You need to be back at the port with time to spare.
You can choose to return on either the afternoon or evening sailing. Check the Stena Line website for current timetables when you are planning your trip.
Is It Worth It?
Absolutely, one hundred per cent yes. Belfast is a fantastic city, the ferry is part of the fun, and it is one of those days out that the whole family talks about for years afterwards. We loved every minute of it.
Ready to Book Your Stay?
If you are thinking about a holiday in Port William and want to make the most of everything this corner of Scotland has to offer, we would love to welcome you to Westview Cottage. Drop us a message at westviewportwilliam@gmail.com or call 07956 972711.
