Flew Easyjet in the sale. Into Belfast International rather than the scarier option of Belfast City with its short runway and approach over the harbour. Picked up hre car and drove into the city avoiding the motorway to enter from the west. Irish tricolours.
Interesting exhibition at the City Hall in Donegal Square on the city's history to date - including the newly appointed Sinn Fein Mayor - and the fascinating old, wood-panelled Linen Hall Library. Walked the city centre to crooked Albert Memorial Clock Tower, Custom House, Harland and Wolf shipyard cranes, St Anne's Cathedral. Mountains at the end of every street. Back through the narrow, dingy, seedy alleys of the Setts.
Had a beer in The Crown, a Victorian saloon bar. Dark, low-ceilinged with private booths that you can reserve for (ordinary looking) lunch. Only missing the fug of cigarette smoke to complete the nostalgic timewarp.
Drive out of town following signs to Carrickfergus while Jenny falls asleep. Blowy walk around the harbour and castle.
Take the coast road to our hotel - a converted 17th century castle, complete with haunted tower. http://www.hastingshotels.com/index.cfm/aID/202/Content_Key/592/type/category/CatName/Ballygally_Castle.html
There's a wedding party expected when we arrive (my heart sinks) but the friendly service is maintained without a hitch. Nice meal in the quiet restaurant. Knock on the bedroom door..."Oh. You're not my father-in-law." Can only agree with that.
There's a wedding party expected when we arrive (my heart sinks) but the friendly service is maintained without a hitch. Nice meal in the quiet restaurant. Knock on the bedroom door..."Oh. You're not my father-in-law." Can only agree with that.
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