The sun has now made an appearance, the days have gotten longer, and the spring break has officially started! We wanted to make sure you have an enjoyable break over Easter, so we’ve put together a list of fun activities to make the most of the season. Besides all the studying, it’s important to take some time for self-care and mental well-being. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or social events, there’s something for everyone!
Outdoor Adventures
Enjoy a Peaceful Picnic in Botanic Gardens
If the sun is shining and the grass is dry, why not have a change of scenery for your lunch break? This activity is super simple and a great way to get some fresh air and vitamin D. Fill up a basket or bag with whatever food you feel like eating, wrap up a blanket, and head down to secure your spot on that glorious green grass. You can enjoy the company of friends, or if you fancy a solo adventure, bring a book, lie back, and listen to the birds chirp while indulging in some relaxing reading and yummy food.
Enjoy a Stroll and Sip by the River Lagan
Go for a lovely stroll down by Queen’s Quay and take in one of Belfast’s staple landmarks, the Big Fish. Enjoy the refreshing breeze and take in the scenic views of the waterfront, the Titanic Quarter, and the towering Harland & Wolff cranes as you stroll down by the Lagan. Whether you’re walking solo, catching up with a friend, or even listening to your favourite podcast, this riverside route offers the perfect blend of relaxation and gentle exercise. To round off your stroll, treat yourself to a well-deserved coffee and cake at Native Coffee. This cozy coffee shack serves up high-quality brews and sweet treats that make for the perfect mid-walk pick-me-up.
Visit Helen’s Bay Beach for Some Fun and Food
Helen’s Bay Beach is a hidden gem that offers the perfect escape from city life, and it’s only a train ride away! If you’re feeling brave, why not have a cold water dip to freshen up, or if the sun is out, lie back on the sand and listen to the waves crashing in? It’s also a great spot for a beach game with friends, so make sure to pack up a frisbee or ball. If you’re lucky, the ice cream van might make an appearance, so treat yourself to a delicious cone while soaking up the beach vibes. Whether you’re relaxing or being active, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon.
Easter-Themed Activities
Participate in the Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt at Hillsborough Castle
Springtime at Hillsborough Castle is an enchanting experience, and this Easter you can enjoy the Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt. What better way to meander through the stunning gardens and see all the vibrant displays of flowers, while also getting a sweet treat out of it? Embark on the hunt to find the hidden Lindt Gold Bunny statues that are scattered throughout the grounds. Don’t forget to visit the café afterward for a well-deserved treat, whether it’s a cake, a drink, or a light lunch to fuel you for more exploring.
The Lindt GOLD BUNNY Hunt | Hillsborough Castle | Historic Royal Palaces
Attend the Easter Chocolate Experience at Hotel Chocolat
What better way to spend Easter break than immersing yourself in a world of chocolate at the Hotel Chocolat Easter Chocolate Experience? For just £25 per person, you can enjoy a welcome glass of Prosecco or juice, then indulge in a tasting of their imaginative chocolate creations, including the Extra-Thick Easter Egg and velvet-smooth drinking chocolate. You also get to decorate your own Easter Slab to take home and show off, so make sure not to miss this fun!
Easter Chocolate Experience – Belfast City Hall Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite
Fun-filled Indoor Activities
Head to the SSE for Some Competitive Fun
Fancy a bit of competitive fun? Why not take a trip down to the SSE Arena, where there’s endless fun to choose from? You could easily spend hours here and never get bored. Head to Lost City Adventures mini golf and show off your skills (or lack of) as you attempt to make that hole-in-one. If golf isn’t your forte, across the way you’ve got Hollywood Bowls, where you can switch it up with some bowling. If you fancy winning some fun prizes to take home, Funstation is full of arcade games where you can try your luck. Once your energy levels have gone down, you can head upstairs to Cineworld and watch a movie. There are also plenty of food places to grab a bite if all that competition works up an appetite.
Explore a Local Market
Why not spend a morning exploring one of Belfast’s lively markets? St George’s Market is a fantastic spot to enjoy some delicious local food, browse unique stalls, and listen to some live music. If you’re looking for a more curated experience, The North Block Bazaar market, hosted by Little Fox, offers a chance to sample local whiskey, make cocktails, and even go on a tour of the McConnell’s Distillery. It’s a great way to support local businesses and find unique items, while also enjoying live DJs and tasty food. Be sure to check Markets & Fairs | Visit Belfast for market opening times.
If you’re looking for some quick spring pick-me-ups, why not take a peaceful stroll through Botanic Gardens to smell the flowers in the greenhouse and see the cherry blossoms in bloom? Or even host your very own Easter egg hunt. These simple yet fun moments can add a lot of joy to your spring break.
With so many exciting activities to choose from this Easter, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the spring season in Belfast! Whether you’re spending the day outdoors soaking up the sun, diving into fun Easter-themed events, or trying out indoor activities with friends, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, get out there, make the most of the sunshine, and create some unforgettable memories this Easter!
