Exploring Lisburn and Castlereagh City

In 2002, the prominent town of Lisburn was joined with the Borough of Castlereagh and granted city status. As such, the city is now the 3rd largest city in Northern Ireland.

The city of Lisburn and Castlereagh offers a captivating blend of history, cultural, lifestyle and shopping, which one of Northern Ireland's most famous shopping centre's based at Sprucefield in the city.

At the heart of Lisburn itself lies Bow Street Mall, a premier shopping destination that encapsulates the city's retail allure and community spirit. Boasting a diverse array of stores, eateries, and entertainment options, Bow Street Mall caters to the diverse tastes and preferences of its visitors. Bow Street Mall, like some other centres shows some signs of struggling, with its upstairs now closed and some units now empty. At the centre's height it boasted its own radio broadcasting booth (which I always enjoyed) and retailers such as TK Maxx. Sitting just outside the front of the Mall is the Faith Mission Book Shop. This large store stands out from the hustle and bustle of modern life, providing a haven of peace and inspiration for those seeking spiritual guidance, Christian music, books and gifts.

Delving into the rich tapestry of Lisburn's history and heritage, the Lisburn Museum offers a fascinating journey through time, tracing the city's evolution from its earliest settlements to the present day. Housed within the historic Lisburn Linen Centre, the museum showcases a diverse collection of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays that illuminate key aspects of Lisburn's cultural identity and legacy and is well worth a visit.

The City of Lisburn (and Castlereagh Actually) is booming and is soon to be the home of yet another community radio Radio Lisburn Live. Launching officially in 2024 this new service can be accessed via your smart speaker (Alexa or Google), via your DAB radio, via the Radio Lisburn Live website or even on Freeview channel 277 within the city.

Top attractions in Lisburn include:

Lisburn Cathedral - There has been a Christian Church on the site of this historic cathedral for over 400 years. The cathedral is run by the Church of Ireland and features stunning stained glass windows.

Castle Gardens: Situated in the heart of Lisburn, Castle Gardens is a picturesque park with a rich history. It w as once the site of Lisburn Castle, which was built in the 17th century built by the Conway family, the landlords of Lisburn but which was later demolished. The Gardens were gifted to the people of Lisburn by Lady Wallace's heir, Sir John Murray Scott in 1903 and the World War II Air Raid shelter has been converted into an education centre, for school and community use.

Lagan Valley Regional Park lies just outside Lisburn, a vast expanse of greenery and waterways. The park is ideal for walking, cycling, picnicking, and wildlife spotting along the River Lagan.

Irish Linen Centre and Lisburn Museum celebrates Lisburn's rich industrial heritage of Irish linen production, view the exhibitions on local history, culture and even try weaving.

Other entertainment options in Lisburn and Castlereagh include the Lagan Valley LeisurePlex with facilities including swimming pools and a health suite. Lisburn Omniplex for movie enthusiasts, Lisburn Bowl if you fancy ten-pin bowling, Down Royal Racecourse, if you fancy a day at the races, Castlereagh Hills Golf Course if you fancy a round and Dundonald Ice Bowl for ice skating and bowling, although this facility is closer to Belfast than Lisburn.

The City of Lisburn (and Castlereagh Actually) is close to Belfast and is a great day out for shopping, special events and leisure. Getting to Lisburn from Belfast couldn't be easier with bus and railway connections direct from Belfast and the M1 motorway linking both cities. Have a Great day out!