Janice R. Andrews
The Sunday Times has revealed the best places to live in Northern Ireland in 2024, in an eagerly awaited yearly list. This year, Portstewart has topped the list due to its strong sense of community and abundance of cultural options.
The charming seaside town of Portstewart has received recognition for its year-round commitment to community involvement, which is demonstrated by events like beach clean-ups and the well-known Red Sails festival. The town’s two miles of sandy coastline, together with a variety of stores, cafes, and the energetic Flowerfield Arts Centre, make it a popular destination for locals.
Another strong candidate is Donaghadee, which is tucked away on the Ards peninsula and well-known for its picturesque harbor and bustling waterfront culture. The town’s status as the driest place in Northern Ireland contributes to its appeal, drawing sailors, kayakers, and paddleboarders.
Local swimming group The Donaghadee Chunky Dunkers, who have raised a substantial amount of money for charity, are a shining example of the town’s strong sense of community.
Belfast’s BT7 area, on the other hand, continues to be a family-friendly paradise with great schools and lots of green space. With its busy cafes and variety of amenities, BT7 keeps providing its citizens with a well-rounded lifestyle.
Among the 72 spots selected, The Sunday Times’ extensive guide features these places, highlighting their distinct charm, involvement in the community, and overall quality of life. These locations, which range from in the center of the city to near the coast, represent the best of Northern Ireland in 2024.
