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FAQs

What you need to know about visiting Ards and North Down and Northern Ireland. Find answers below to the most commonly asked questions about travelling to here, and exploring while you visit.

If you cannot find what you are looking for please contact our one of our Visitor Information Centres in Ards or Bangor.

What is the latest travel and holiday advice?

For the latest travel advice and guidance, and updates about Coronavirus in Northern Ireland, please visit the NI Direct website, which is the local government website. For information on face coverings, social distancing regulations, disruption to your travel plans because of Covid-19, Vaccination Certificates ("Covid Passports") and other related topics visit our dedicated Covid-19 Information landing page.

What currency does Northern Ireland use?

Northern Ireland uses the pound sterling (£), the currency also in circulation in England, Scotland and Wales. Mastercard (Access) and Visa credit and debit cards are in general use and contactless payment methods are widely accepted.

The Republic of Ireland uses a different currency, the Euro.

Will I be able to use Euro in Northern Ireland?

Most large stores will accept Euro currency, however please enquire first to confirm if there will be a charge attached to this service and to confirm exact rate. Visitors are advised to plan ahead and bring sterling currency as smaller businesses may not except Euro, or may not give the best exchange rate compared to banks, post offices etc. Please visit Post Office where you will find details of foreign exchange services and up-to-date rates.

What is the best time of the year to come to Northern Ireland?

Come between April and October for the best weather, although our winters never get very cold. Northern Ireland's climate is mild and temperate, with mild winters, very little snow and warm summers. For more information on local weather check the BBC website.

What is the climate in Northern Ireland?

The weather in Northern Ireland is traditionally changeable. The temperature usually stays above freezing, so there is seldom snow or ice, but at any time of year it is advisable to be prepared for rain. Summer months sometimes see prolonged periods of sunshine. Despite the changeable climate there are generally higher levels of ultraviolet (UV) rays between March and October, even on cool or cloudy days. Information on UV protection for those visiting or living in Northern Ireland is available at the Public Health Agency website, Care in the Sun.

Is it safe to visit Northern Ireland?

Yes. Northern Ireland has the second lowest crime rate in Europe. Even during the years of civil unrest tourists were rarely directly affected. As with all travel, some general safety tips: leave money and valuables in a safe place, lock valuables out of sight or take them with you when leaving your hire car.

Is it easy to travel to Northern Ireland?

Yes. Northern Ireland is geographically compact, with everywhere accessible within a few hours. There are many direct air routes into Northern Ireland from Britain as well as some North American and European links. Travel time from Dublin Airport is under two hours. There are several ferry routes from Scotland and the north of England. Yes. Northern Ireland is geographically compact, with everywhere accessible within a few hours.

After 31st January 2020 when driving a vehicle, visitors may have to bring an international insurance document called a Green Card to travel between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Please check with your insurance provider.

What are the Passport and Visa requirements for entry?

Once you are in the country you will not need a passport to cross the border from the Republic of Ireland into Northern Ireland and vice versa.
For UK nationals a passport is not strictly necessary but photographic identification is required. Check with your airline/ferry company as requirements vary. Other nationals- valid passport or national identity card required. (Passports are not required for travel between Northern Ireland and the Republic). Citizens from Europe and most other western countries - visas not usually required. Further information available from the British Embassy in your country of origin, call: 0300 222 0000 or visit the HM Passport Office website. For lost/stolen passport information please contact local police station, embassy or consulate.

Are we required to tip in restaurants?

At a restaurant check your bill to see if the service is included. It usually is. If not and you are satisfied with your service, pay 10-15 percent as a tip.

Is Northern Ireland a good place for shopping?

Belfast City Centre is the focal point for shopping. A large mall, Castlecourt, represents the current centre, joined by Ireland's largest mall, Victoria Square, in the heart of the city. Other cities in Northern Ireland offer popular high street stores, and local enterprises. Ballymena, Derry~Londonderry, Enniskillen, Newry and Lisburn are other popular shopping options.

Can visitors to Northern Ireland avail of tax free shopping?

All visitors from outside the European Union are able to avail of tax free shopping in the UK when they purchase eligible goods from participating retailers.
The scheme is entirely voluntary so look out for the Tax Free Shopping logo before you purchase.

Are there left luggage facilities in Belfast?

Belfast Welcome Centre is the only place that provides this service. £3 per item for up to 4hrs, £4.50 4hrs+. Last pick up is 15 minutes before Belfast Welcome Centre closes. Telephone for further details (028) 9024 6609.

What are the useful telephone codes?

To call Northern Ireland from abroad, dial 00 44 + area code (without 0) + local number. To call Northern Ireland from the Republic of Ireland, dial 048 + area code (without 0) + local number. To call Northern Ireland from elsewhere in UK or to make an internal call, dial area code (with 0) + local number. To call the Republic from Northern Ireland, dial 00 353 + the area code (without 0) + local number.

Electrical current

The standard electricity supply in Northern Ireland is 240 volts. Visitors from some countries may require a transformer and a plug adaptor. A plug adaptor is necessary for visitors to convert 2-pin plugs to the standard 3-pin plugs and can be bought at any electrical supplier.

What happens if I require medical treatment?

EU members will receive treatment as they would at home. A European Health Insurance card (EHIC) is required. The form can be obtained on their website (NI Direct), Post Office or telephone: 0845 606 2030. Visitors are strongly advised to take out private travel insurance.

Do I need extra car insurance if I bring my car to Northern Ireland?

Additional insurance is not required if travelling from Britain or the Republic of Ireland. Travellers from other countries should check with their insurance companies. Remember to drive on the left hand side of the road.

More information on driving in Northern Ireland can be found on the NI Direct website.

Are there Electric Vehicle (EV) Chargers available in Northern Ireland?

Served by FASTER Project electric vehicle charging stations, you can find a complete list of locations across Northern Ireland at www.fasterevcharge.com and charger availability information will also be available on each of the major EV charging apps and websites.

You can find EV chargers in Ards and North Down at the following locations:

• Ards Blair Mayne Wellbeing and Leisure Complex: 1 x 50kW & 1 x 75kW
• Bangor Aurora Aquatic and Leisure Complex: 1 x 50kW & 2 x 75kW
• Bangor Sportsplex; 1 x 50kW
• Londonderry Park: 1 x 50kW

Do I need a licence to drive a hire cruiser?

No, basic training is given on arrival with your chosen hire company.

Can I bring my dog to Northern Ireland?

Rules vary: it depends on the type of animal, your country of origin and the countries you pass through on route. Make sure you plan ahead.

Travelling from elsewhere in the UK, either directly or from the Republic, there are no restrictions, but check ther requirements of your ferry/airline company.

Cats and dogs arriving at the UK from the continent can enter Ireland without quarantine, provided they satisfy requirements of UK Pet Travel Scheme (PETS). This scheme has now been extended to the USA and Canada. PETS Helpline +44 (0) 28 90 524622, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs website.

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