Monday 31 October 2016

Through the Barricades







Michael and I decided to escape Dublin for a weekend in Belfast.  Dublin was being invaded by 20,000 Americans that had descended on the city to watch a game of college football.  We were in the city the last time that occurred and had no desire for a repeat performance!
 
The train trip was very relaxing as usual and upon our arrival in Belfast we headed straight to St George’s Market for breakfast.  No prizes for guessing what was on the menu – an enormous Belfast Bap.  Michael thoroughly enjoyed his and I enjoyed my smaller version.  A stroll around the market and then it was a walk through the rain to drop our bags at the hotel.  It always rains in Belfast however we never let that stop us doing what we want.
 
The afternoon was spent wandering through the many different bookstores and charity shops in search of more reading material.  Dinner was at a fabulous restaurant, which had been recommended to us – The Barking Dog.  The food was excellent and the restaurant was full of local people enjoying their evening.
 
On Sunday, we saw the sun for the first time ever on our numerous trips to Belfast.  We took full advantage and were able to stroll through the beautiful Botanic Gardens.  There is the Palm House conservatory which was built in 1840, which is lovely however, the highlight for me, was the rose garden.  I have previously raved about Queen Mary’s rose garden in London but I must say that the roses on display in Belfast were even better.  The blooms were numerous and perfect in shape and perfume, despite it being towards the end of the season.  The colours were gorgeous and there we many more buds waiting to burst forth. 
 
We thoroughly enjoyed our weekend in Belfast. It is lovely and relaxing spending time in a city that you have already visited, as there is no pressure or compulsion to rush about.