Step into the heart of Northern Ireland with this carefully curated 72-hour itinerary, designed to immerse you in the rich tapestry of Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon.

From ancient legends and sacred cathedrals to cosmic discoveries and crisp orchard air, this journey offers a perfect balance of culture, history, and flavour.

Over three memorable days, you’ll walk in the footsteps of saints and kings, explore Georgian elegance, and discover why Armagh is both the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland and its Orchard County. Delve into interactive museums, hidden libraries, and starry skies before venturing to Banbridge for artistic inspiration and a brush with fantasy as you step behind the scenes at Game of Thrones Studio Tour.

Along the way, indulge in a vibrant food scene; from cosy cafés and modern bistros to artisan cider tastings and iconic local snacks.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a fan of epic storytelling, this itinerary promises an unforgettable Northern Ireland escape.

Day 1: Armagh – Dive into History and Architecture

Morning:

• Navan Centre & Fort – Begin your day by exploring this significant archaeological site, believed to be the ancient seat of the kings of Ulster and closely associated with the legendary tales of the Ulster Cycle. Through interactive exhibits and immersive storytelling, you’ll gain insight into the region’s ancient power structures, mythology, and spiritual traditions—elements that set the stage for Armagh’s later emergence as a religious centre. Book your tickets here.

• St. Patrick’s Cathedral (Church of Ireland) – Just a short distance away, continue your journey through Armagh’s spiritual evolution with a visit to Saint Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral, built on the site where St. Patrick is said to have founded his first stone church. The cathedral, with its beautifully restored interiors, stained glass windows, and atmospheric crypt, offers a tangible link between the ancient pagan past of Navan and the Christian legacy that transformed Armagh into the “spiritual capital of Ireland.”

Lunch:

• Enjoy lunch at a local café, restaurant or hotel, such as Charlemont Arms Hotel, where you can sample local dishes with a modern twist.

Afternoon:

• Georgian City Walking Tour – Spend the afternoon strolling through Armagh’s charming Georgian streets. Walk past refined terraces, cobbled lanes, and ornate shopfronts with a local guide who can share the rich history behind the city’s layout. Tours take place at 2pm (Thurs-Sun) from June to September or private guided tours can be arranged. Click here for details.
• St. Patrick’s Cathedral (Roman Catholic) – Finish your day by visiting the stunning St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Cathedral, a place of historical and religious significance. Admire the impressive architecture and learn about the history of St. Patrick in the heart of Armagh. Guided tours are available at 2pm, 3pm and 4pm daily and can be pre-booked here.

Evening:

• Dinner at Uluru Bar & Grill – Savor a relaxed evening with high-quality food at this Australian-inspired eatery, offering everything from premium steaks to fresh seafood.
• Explore Local Bars – After dinner, unwind at one of Armagh’s character-filled pubs like the Hole in the Wall Bar, known for its historic setting and live music, or Red Ned’s, a lively local favourite with great craic and a welcoming atmosphere.

Day 2: Armagh – Explore Science, Art, and the Orchards

Morning:

• Armagh Observatory and Planetarium  – Begin the day with a fascinating visit to Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, where you can enjoy interactive exhibits and a digital theatre experience. Learn about astronomy and space exploration in this cutting-edge facility.
• Armagh Robinson Library & No. 5 Vicars’ Hill – Visit Northern Ireland’s oldest library and explore rare manuscripts, including a first edition of Gulliver’s Travels. Adjacent to it, No. 5 Vicars’ Hill offers a deeper dive into the ecclesiastical history of the city.

Lunch:

• Enjoy lunch at Dante’s at The Palace, a welcoming café located within the scenic Palace Demesne. Known for its hearty meals, homemade treats, and relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to refuel before an afternoon of exploring.

Afternoon:

• • Tayto Castle Factory Tour – Continue the day with a fun and quirky visit to the Tayto Castle Factory in nearby Tandragee. Learn about the history of Tayto crisps and see the production process at this iconic snack factory housed in a historic castle. Tours are available at 10.30am or 1.30pm every Monday to Friday, To book online click here.
  • Apple Orchard Tour – Take a short trip out of the city to visit one of the Orchard County’s renowned family-run apple orchards. You can choose to visit either Long Meadow Cider or Armagh Cider Company. Experience cider-making firsthand and taste the small-batch, local ciders that have put Armagh on the map as the Orchard County.

Evening:

• Dinner at 4C Coffee House & Kitchen – For a relaxed yet high-quality dining experience, enjoy a delicious meal at 4C, known for its tasty seasonal menu, freshly prepared dishes, and warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Armagh.

Day 3: Banbridge – Culture, History, and Fun

Morning:

• FE McWilliam Gallery – Begin your day by heading to Banbridge to explore this modern gallery dedicated to the work of Irish sculptor Frederick Edward McWilliam. The gallery features a mix of contemporary art, sculptures, and exhibitions from local and international artists.

Lunch:

• Quail’s Café – Enjoy a delicious lunch at Quail’s at the Gallery, located within the FE McWilliam Gallery. They serve artisan food made from local ingredients in a lovely, contemporary setting.

Afternoon:

• Game of Thrones Studio Tour – Dedicate your afternoon to the Game of Thrones Studio Tour, where you can explore the official exhibition of costumes, props, and sets from the iconic TV series. Dive into the magic of Westeros and discover behind-the-scenes secrets from this global phenomenon. For added convenience, a dedicated coach pick-up service operates from The Boulevard, making it easy to combine the tour with some outlet shopping and dining before or after your visit.

• Shopping at The Boulevard – After the studio tour, take some time to visit The Boulevard, Banbridge’s premier shopping outlet, where you can enjoy a range of stores offering everything from high street fashion to homeware, all with great discounts.

Evening:

• Dinner & Drinks at Salt Kitchen – End your 72-hour trip with a relaxed evening at Salt Kitchen, a modern Irish restaurant located within The Boulevard. Known for its fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local and artisan producers, Salt Kitchen offers a variety of dishes in a cozy yet upscale setting.

Where to Stay:

After a full day of exploring, unwind at one of the many excellent accommodations in Armagh and Banbridge. From charming boutique hotels to cozy bed-and-breakfasts, there’s a place to suit every preference.

Getting Here and Getting Around

To make the most of this immersive journey through Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon, travelling by car is highly recommended. While Armagh is accessible via public transport from Belfast and Dublin, having your own vehicle offers the freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace—especially when venturing to rural orchards, scenic heritage sites, and the Game of Thrones Studio Tour.

Car hire is available from major providers at nearby airports, including Belfast International Airport, Belfast City Airport, and Dublin Airport. Companies such as Enterprise, Europcar, Avis, and Hertz offer a range of rental options to suit your trip. With well-maintained roads and breathtaking countryside views, driving is both convenient and enjoyable—making every part of your 72-hour adventure easily within reach.