Ireland's Northern Counties

The counties of Antrim, Armagh, Cavan, Derry, Donegal, Down, Fermanagh, Monaghan, Tyrone make up the province of Ulster. Also in Ireland's North is County Louth. Six of these counties (Antrim, Armagh, Derry, Down, Fermanagh, Tyrone) make up Northern Ireland which is ruled by England.

Ireland's second largest city, Belfast, and Derry City are located within Northern Ireland. These two cities, once virtual war zones are now recovering steadily from over 30 years of what is known as The Troubles. Today these cities offer the visitor a far more pleasant introduction to this part of the country. Many fine shopping areas, museums, nightclubs, pubs, restaurants, and theatres are located here.

Much of Ireland's most beautiful upland scenery is located in the mountains of Mourne (County Down), Donegal and the Sperrins of Tyrone. The Glens of Antrim provide a blissful oasis in the bustling county of Antrim. From here you may also take a ferry ride to the North's largest Island, Ratlin Island, and look over the sea to nearby Scotland. The Giants Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is Ireland's most striking geological feature.

Ireland's North, in particular counties Fermanagh, Cavan and Donegal, is a popular haven for anglers with hundreds of lakes and rivers.

Northern Ireland:

• Antrim and Belfast City
• Armagh
• Derry
• Down
• Fermanagh
• Tyrone

Republic of Ireland:

• Donegal
• Cavan
• Louth
• Monaghan