Belfast with Autistic Children

Belfast, the vibrant capital of Northern Ireland, is a fantastic destination for families, including those with autistic children. With its rich history, welcoming atmosphere, and numerous family-friendly activities, Belfast with autistic children offers a memorable experience for all.

Getting To Belfast

Belfast is accessible via Belfast International Airport and George Best Belfast City Airport. Direct flights are available from many major cities. Consider the most comfortable mode of transport for your child, and plan for breaks during the journey.

Transport Options from Belfast Airport

There are two airports in Belfast – one is much closer to the city than the other.

• Taxi: is it easy enough to find a taxi at the airport, this will likely be the expensive option but it is an option.
• Transfer: You can consider pre-booking a transfer, and you actually do that via GetYourGuide here.
• Public Transport: Both times we have gone to Belfast, we have taken a bus to and from the airport. It is really easy, you can wait in the line outside of the airport and pay on the bus, or you can download the app and buy tickets there.

Where to Stay

Choose accommodations that offer quiet environments and easy access to outdoor spaces. Many hotels in Belfast are family-friendly and can accommodate specific needs. Consider self-catering options for more flexibility.

We stayed overnight in Belfast on our first trip there, but not on the second trip. On the first trip we stayed at a hotel away from the hustle and bustle of Belfast City. It was the Radisson Blu.

Family-Friendly Activities in Belfast

Titanic Belfast

Explore the Titanic Quarter with interactive exhibits that tell the story of the famous ship. The museum offers quiet spaces and sensory-friendly resources. It’s proper name is the Titanic Experience so make sure this is what you book if you book it online. We have done it both ways – walked in and got tickets on the day and booked in advance. We got in much more quickly with pre-booked tickets.

They have an autism initiative so make sure to contact them about visiting with autistic children and you’ll have access to quiet spaces and also be able to skip the queue for the rollercoaster thing. Our kids still seemed to find the majority of the Titanic Experience overwhelming, so I think it could be one to really think about before booking it for your trip to Belfast with autistic children.

If you do decide to go, you can book your visit to Titanic Belfast in advance here.

W5 Interactive Discovery Centre

A science and discovery centre with hands-on exhibits designed to engage and entertain children. Anything kids can touch and be involved with is a big yes on our itinerary.

Belfast Botanic Gardens

A peaceful green space with plenty of room to run around and explore, plus the Palm House and Tropical Ravine.

Belfast Zoo

Home to various animals, Belfast Zoo offers a fun and educational outing with accessible facilities.

Ulster Museum

Discover a range of exhibits from art to natural history. The museum provides quiet areas and sensory bags for children with autism.

Castle Espie Wetland Centre

Enjoy the great outdoors with birdwatching, trails, and interactive displays. The centre is equipped with sensory guides.

Colin Glen Forest Park

Explore nature trails, a Gruffalo Trail, and outdoor activities designed for families.

St. George’s Market

A vibrant market offering sensory-friendly times, local produce, crafts, and food stalls. We really loved this place as a surprise find on our first trip to Belfast. There are plenty of food and other stalls to look at and buy from.

Giant’s Causeway

A short drive from Belfast, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers stunning views and an engaging visitor centre. If you want it to be easy, you can book this as a tour via GetYourGuide here.

Aunt Sandra’s Candy Factory

Enjoy a sweet treat and learn about candy-making in a fun, family-friendly environment.

Our Favourite Sensory-Friendly Activity In Belfast

Hop On Hop Off Bus

Our favourite sensory friendly activity in Belfast was the hop on hop off bus. This provided our kids a quiet and dry space for them to relax on our trip to Belfast – where it was absolutely chucking it down with rain. The bus was nice and quiet with only a few other passengers and it even provided Travis a place for a quick nap because he was absolutely exhausted.

Is Belfast Autism-Friendly?

Belfast is increasingly becoming an autism-friendly city, with growing public awareness, supportive educational and healthcare services, and a range of autism-friendly attractions. While the city is busy and can be overwhelming at times, the availability of quiet spaces, specialized services, and community support helps create a more inclusive environment for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Things That Make Belfast Stand Out

• Belfast’s public transport system, including buses and trains, is generally accessible and continues to improve in terms of accommodating passengers with special needs. Translink, the public transport provider, offers assistance for travellers with disabilities and is working towards making services more autism-friendly. However, during peak times, public transport can be crowded, so planning trips during quieter periods might be beneficial.
• Several attractions in Belfast offer autism-friendly services. For example, the Titanic Belfast museum, one of the city’s most famous attractions, provides sensory-friendly sessions and quiet rooms. Similarly, the Ulster Museum offers special programs and sensory backpacks to help make visits more comfortable for individuals with autism.
• While Belfast is a busy city, there are many parks and green spaces, such as Botanic Gardens and Ormeau Park, where visitors can enjoy quieter, more relaxing environments. These areas can be ideal for those seeking a break from the noise and activity of the city.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Plan Ahead: Research each location and contact them to discuss any special accommodations your child might need. If you can plan to arrive after check-in time you should, or try to arrange an early check-in.
• Sensory Tools: Bring along sensory tools and comfort items that help manage sensory needs, such as noise-cancelling headphones, sensory toys, and a sensory toolkit.
• Clear Communication: Ensure that everyone involved in the trip understands the needs and preferences of the neurodiverse individual. Clear communication can prevent misunderstandings and enhance the travel experience. Consider using PECS or an AAC. We have a free pack of travel PECS available for download.
• Safety: Consider getting an autism card for your child, or even better – use our emergency passport for medical information and important contacts. Our absolute must have safety item for travelling with an autistic child is a TinyTags wristband or tag that can be tapped or scanned by a mobile phone – giving the person who tapped it all of the information they need to get your child back to you. TinyTags also feature a location alert to help you find your child.

Belfast offers a wealth of family-friendly activities that cater to the needs of children with autism. From interactive museums to outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plan your visit and create lasting memories in this vibrant city.

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