The sun is still shining, I really like September as a month when everything looks lovely, there is still sun and warmth but the trees and ground are starting to resemble autumn. Walks at this time of year are my favourite and it is a great season to be able to get out and explore close to home and further a field. As a family we always look to go away in half term, the weather is often still fine, although you may need to pull on the cozy warm jumpers. It is our last chance to have a break often until Easter when the weather is more reliable again. If you are looking to get away have you considered Belfast? There are many great places to stay and Hotel Direct will help you find the perfect accommodation for your needs, from 4* to budget friendly. Being teachers we find weekends away tricky as often there is marking and prep to be done which is why we make the most of out holidays.
I have only been to Ireland once, to a friends wedding and again we combined it with a short break. I was won over by the Irish charm and culture. We loved being out in the evenings and watching live bands and traditional Irish Dancing, it was also very family friendly.
The city of Belfast has much to offer, especially in Autumn. I would choose to go to the West Coast Cooler Fashion Week which promises to be a fun few days. I know Chloe would love to spend some mother daughter time here!
A must do for me would be visiting the iconic Titanic Experience, it is a part of history that absolutely screams at me. There are so many stories both told and untold that captivates me about the Titanic. I just think of all those people on board and their stories of where they were headed. As a sociologist I love social history and the Titanic has certainly encapsulated that.
If after that you need somewhere where the children can roam free a visit to the Belfast Zoological Gardens maybe in order. Home to over 1000 species and carrying out important conservation work makes this a delightful place to lose yourself for a few hours. As you would expect from a well established attraction the zoo has picnic areas and play areas to make it a full day out. There may also be some special events taking place when you visit so worth checking out their website first.
If you are a foodie, visiting Belfast in early October will give you the opportunity to partake in the Belfast Restaurant week where over 60 city restaurants offer exclusive events or host food tours, tasting and pop up eateries. This again would be a delightful way to see parts of the city.
Belfast has plenty to offer and it makes me want to go back to visit again. As I said October is often our last break of the year and this would be a superb place to make the most of that special time before Winter checks in and we hibernate until Spring!
Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.
