Lisburn is a city that blends urban energy with laid-back charm. With Belfast nearby, it's a popular place to live for people who want the best of both worlds-fast connections and space to breathe. A strong community spirit, growing culture scene, and beautiful green spaces give it a character all its own.
Lisburn was granted city status in 2002, but its roots go way back. It played a major role in Ireland's linen industry and was one of the first places in the world to light its streets by gas lamp. A place shaped by innovation-and still evolving.
Lisburn is where shopping meets tradition and choice. From big names like M&S and Tesco to the much-loved Greens Food Fare - serving locals since 1886 - it's a city that blends quality, heritage and community spirit. Add the weekly city market with its artisan breads and fresh produce, and you've got a place where the past and present come together beautifully.
From riverside walks and historic sites to shops, schools, and cafés, Lisburn is a place that offers both ease and opportunity.
This central green space has something for everyone-tennis courts, a duck pond, a play park, and wide-open lawns perfect for picnics or weekend strolls. It's a real community hub and ideal for families.
A hidden gem with stunning views over the city. These beautifully landscaped gardens sit on the site of Lisburn Castle, offering a peaceful place to wander, think, or catch up with friends.
Explore the city's industrial past through interactive exhibits and fascinating displays. It's free to visit and right in the heart of Market Square-ideal for curious minds of any age.
Follow the River Lagan along this scenic route for walking, cycling or running. Stretching from Lisburn to Belfast, it's one of the most scenic routes in Northern Ireland-for commuting, cycling or weekend strolls.
An award-winning, family-run spot in the heart of Bailliesmills, Co. Down. Stock up on local agri-food and farm-fresh produce, unwind in the tea room, or browse the boutique curated by daughter Anna. For a real treat, book a Traditional Afternoon Tea in the elegant Orangery.
Part of the Haslem Hotel in Lisburn Square, Haslem Bar offers an extensive list of handpicked Irish gins, cocktails, and craft beers. Live music is featured every Friday and Saturday from 5pm until late, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Situated in the heart of Lisburn, The Cardan combines a contemporary gastro pub experience with exceptional food and drinks. Enjoy live music and DJs every weekend, making it a great spot for socialising.
Located in Lisburn Square, The Lark offers a lively atmosphere with live music every Friday and Saturday night from 8pm, showcasing local talent. Enjoy classic cocktails, quality pub grub, and a welcoming environment.
At over 400 years old, Robert Stewart's is a charming pub and restaurant in the heart of Drumbeg. Open seven days a week, it serves homemade delicious food and drinks in a warm, welcoming setting-perfect for gathering with friends and family.
Well-loved and family-run, this local bistro has built a reputation for top-quality food and a warm welcome. Ideal for date night or a relaxed lunch with friends.
Bringing a taste of New York to Lisburn, Jersey Street Grill serves up classic American diner favourites-from stacked burgers and BBQ ribs to hearty breakfasts. Located in the Lisburn Leisureplex, it's big on flavour and full of character.
Set in Lisburn Square, Glasshouse serves quality Bailies coffee, fresh breakfasts, and hearty lunches in a stylish, dog-friendly space. With comfy booths and outdoor seating, it's ideal for everything from work meetings to weekend catch-ups.
A charming addition to Railway Street, Koda's Coffee Bar blends great coffee with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Known for its friendly service, fresh bakes, and shelves of books, it's the perfect spot to unwind, work, or catch up with friends.
A little outside the centre, this rustic restaurant and bar serves hearty food in a countryside setting. Bonus: it's right beside the racecourse.
Crema is a modern Lisburn café serving speciality coffee and freshly made brunch in a calm, welcoming space. A local favourite for relaxing, with vegan and gluten-free options available.
A go-to for families of all ages. With its leisure pool, flumes, lazy river, and toddler splash area, it's perfect for water fun. There's also tenpin bowling, a soft play zone, and fitness classes for the grown-ups.
Just a short drive from Lisburn, this action-packed park offers everything from Gruffalo Trails and mini-golf to ziplines, laser tag, and the Alpine Coaster. With scenic walks and picnic spots too, it's an ideal day out.
Perfect for little animal lovers. This working farm lets kids get up close to lambs, goats, and even alpacas. There are tractor rides, play areas, a woodland walk, and seasonal events throughout the year.
Each July, Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park comes alive for Rose Week, with thousands of blooms on show. Set across 128 acres, it also offers a Japanese garden, playground, picnic areas, and barbecue spots, making it a perfect day out for all ages.
Here we collated information to give you knowledge and help make Lisburn feel more familiar.
Lisburn is well connected for both commuters and day-trippers.
For up-to-date timetables and routes, visit Translink's website.
Getting outside in Lisburn is easy, with green space and fresh air never far away. Wallace Park is a local favourite, right in the heart of town, with its duck pond, tennis courts and play park. Castle Gardens brings a bit of history and headspace, while Duncan's Dam is perfect for a quiet loop with the dog. You'll find riverside walks at Aberdelghy Park and around Lagan Valley Island, plus open ground to stretch out at the Leisureplex or watch a match at Laurelhill Sports Zone. Even Market Square and Bow Street add to the city's open-air appeal. For longer walks or weekend picnics, Moira Demesne and the Lagan Valley Regional Park are both within easy reach.
From active play to animal encounters, Lisburn has lots to offer families. Lagan Valley LeisurePlex features a swimming pool with slides, a leisure pool, tenpin bowling, and soft play. For animal lovers, Streamvale Farm (just a short drive away) offers a fun day out with hands-on activities. Wallace Park is great for a casual afternoon, and Colin Glen Forest Park-with ziplines, laser tag and the Black Bull Run-adds extra excitement nearby. And Drumbo Park has greyhound racing with a family-friendly setup.
Lisburn's creative and cultural scene blends heritage with modern experiences. Island Arts Centre hosts theatre, music, exhibitions, and community workshops. Lisburn Museum, housed in the old Market House, showcases the city's linen history and changing local exhibitions. Public artworks and murals throughout the city reflect Lisburn's evolving identity and strong civic pride.
Lisburn's nightlife is friendly and easy-going, with something for everyone. Hilden Brewery's Tap Room combines craft beer, live music and hearty food in a laid-back setting. The Haslem Bar & Lounge is a popular spot for cocktails or weekend drinks. For a pint with friends, The Linen House is central and lively.
Lisburn is home to a strong network of schools. Pre-schools and nurseries include Little Ducklings, First Steps, and Harmony Hill Day Nursery. Primary schools such as Pond Park, Ballymacash, and Fort Hill are well-regarded, while Grammar and post-primary options include Friends' School, Wallace High, and Lisnagarvey High-all within easy reach of the city centre.
You'll find no shortage of salons, clinics and spas across Lisburn. From luxury treatments at The Secret Day Spa or Pure Day Spa, to walk-in nail bars and trusted hairdressers in the city centre and local neighbourhoods, there's something for every budget and schedule. Whether it's a full body reset or a quick refresh, Lisburn has you covered.
There's plenty of choice in Lisburn for the weekly shop or a quick grab-and-go. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury's, Lidl and M&S Food. Local shops and independent butchers, like McCartney's of Moira, offer speciality produce. The weekly Lisburn City Centre Market brings fresh vegetables, artisan breads, and sweet treats right into town.
Ballyclare Group Practice covers everyday medical needs, with local pharmacies for quick care. For emergencies, Antrim Area Hospital is just 11 minutes away, while Mater and Royal Victoria hospitals in Belfast offer specialist treatment within a 20-23 minute drive.