These Towns in Northern Ireland Have the Best Main Streets
Northern Ireland consists of six counties and is home to some of the oldest towns in Ireland, many of which boast historical sites and landmarks, including Coleraine, which dates back to the Mesolithic period, and Carrickfergus, with its well-preserved Norman castle. The blend of ancient heritage and modern-day living is in the local businesses that line the bustling main streets. In Carrickfergus, for instance, businesses along the main street are housed in centuries-old buildings that date back to the 1800s. These seven towns have the best main streets in the region. They come alive with the essence of Northern Ireland鈥檚 past and present and encourage understanding of the country's cultural landscape.
Ballycastle
Walking through Ballycastle, it's easy to see why this coastal town has become a favorite stop along Northern Ireland's Causeway Coastal Route. The heart of the town is its main street, where local businesses hum with activity and reflect the area鈥檚 strong maritime and rural heritage. While strolling through, you can drop by Ballycastle Craft Fair, a showcase of artisans who create everything from textiles to ceramics, all echoing the cultural history of the region.
A morning might start with breakfast at Thyme & Co., where the ingredients are fresh from nearby farms, bringing the taste of Ballycastle鈥檚 agricultural roots to the table. Don鈥檛 forget to swing by Ursa Minor Bakehouse, a local spot where bread and pastries are crafted using organic, locally sourced flour. The town feels like a living testament to its deep-rooted traditions while still embracing the modern touches of its growing community.
Enniskillen
There鈥檚 something special about Enniskillen鈥檚 main street, where creativity meets history. The town, which lies between two large lakes in Ireland, has evolved from its military past into a place where art, culture, and local flavors thrive. One of the best ways to experience this evolution is by visiting The Buttermarket鈥攚hat was once a dairy market is now a bustling creative hub filled with artists selling handmade pottery, jewelry, and paintings. Another fantastic shopping market is the Erneside Shopping Centre, featuring over 35 stores as well as cafes and eateries. Enniskillen鈥檚 main street is a mix of old and new, with every turn leading to something unexpected, from the artistic to the historical.
Newcastle
The charm of Newcastle lies not only in its sandy beaches or proximity to the majestic Mourne Mountains but also in its main street, where local businesses create a lively, welcoming atmosphere. A visit to Mourne Seafood Bar is a must for those who want to taste the best seafood caught fresh from the nearby waters. The restaurant鈥檚 simple yet flavorful dishes highlight the town鈥檚 deep connection to the surrounding sea.
Art lovers can step into ASH Gallery and Studios, which features the work of local artists. It is a creative pulse within this coastal town. After that, Olive Bizarre is a quirky caf茅 with a warm atmosphere and great views of some of the highest mountains in Northern Ireland. Whether you鈥檙e seeking a culinary adventure or a dose of creative inspiration, Newcastle鈥檚 main street is a window into the town鈥檚 unique personality.
Strabane
Strabane, with its strong ties to the linen industry of the 18th and 19th centuries, has transitioned from its industrial roots into a market town. Today, its main street is a lively stretch where the town鈥檚 agricultural heritage blends seamlessly with modern life. A walk through the center is more than just shopping鈥攖here鈥檚 a sense of history in the air, and the Alley Theatre captures this perfectly. Known for hosting a wide range of local performances and cultural events, the theatre is a staple of Strabane鈥檚 creative scene.
For those looking to indulge in local flavors, Oysters Restaurant serves up dishes made from the freshest local ingredients. It is a true taste of County Tyrone. Saturdays bring the Strabane Market to life, where vendors sell everything from farm-fresh produce to handmade crafts. The market reflects the town鈥檚 enduring connection to its agricultural roots.
Coleraine
Coleraine鈥檚 main street feels like a gateway to the past, dating back to the Mesolithic period. Today, this bustling center not only serves as a place for commerce but also as a portal to Northern Ireland鈥檚 heritage. A visit to The Chocolate Manor is a sweet glimpse into Coleraine鈥檚 more modern attractions, where visitors can roll up their sleeves and try their hand at crafting artisan chocolates.
If you鈥檙e more inclined toward history, Coleraine Museum in the Town Hall takes you on a journey through the town鈥檚 development鈥攆rom its earliest settlers to its role during the Ulster Plantation. Coleraine effortlessly balances the old with the new, and its main street reflects both its historical significance and evolving identity.
Downpatrick
In Downpatrick, history is palpable, with the town鈥檚 connection to Saint Patrick, drawing pilgrims and history buffs alike. The main street here is the artery that connects the town鈥檚 many historical landmarks. Down County Museum, housed in a former gaol, gives insight into County Down鈥檚 history, with exhibits that delve into early Christian settlements and, of course, Saint Patrick himself.
A visit to The Cuan brings you closer to Downpatrick鈥檚 culinary traditions, with a menu that champions local ingredients and fresh seafood from Strangford Lough. Before leaving, don鈥檛 miss Denvir鈥檚 Coaching Inn, a historic gem that has been welcoming guests since the 1600s. Whether you鈥檙e interested in the legacy of Saint Patrick or eating a hearty meal, Downpatrick鈥檚 main street is where centuries of history meet local culture.
Carrickfergus
Carrickfergus, with its imposing Norman castle watching over the town, is a place where history feels ever-present. Carrickfergus Castle, an 800-year-old fortress, has been a silent witness to centuries of military campaigns, including the Williamite War. It is one of the most significant medieval sites in Northern Ireland. As you move away from the castle and onto the town鈥檚 main street, the sense of history continues to linger, but modern life hums all around.
A visit to the Carrickfergus Museum is an ideal starting point, where visitors can deep dive into the town鈥檚 past with a treasure trove of artifacts that recount stories from its Norman origins to its role in more recent conflicts. Afterward, a meal at Ownies Bistro is a setting to reflect on the day, blending traditional Irish cuisine with a modern twist. For those looking to stretch their legs, the Marine Highway is a scenic stroll along the waterfront, with views across Belfast Lough.
Exploring Northern Ireland鈥檚 main streets is more than just a shopping or dining experience鈥攊t is a deeper connection to the region's history and culture. From Ballycastle鈥檚 coastal charm to Armagh鈥檚 religious significance, each town has its unique story through its central streets. These main streets are not only the heart of the towns but also a reflection of Northern Ireland鈥檚 enduring traditions and modern vibrancy.
