Hollywood in Northern Ireland: a must-visit town in 2024

A small town in Northern Ireland, situated just a few miles from the capital, bears a quite suggestive name - Hollywood - and has been recognized as one of the 13 best places in the UK by Condé Nast Traveler this year.

Hollywood is pronounced the same way as its American namesake, although it is far from the bustling and lively Los Angeles area, as reported by the Express.

Streets adorned with Victorian-era mansions and elegant detached homes characterize the town, with many offering breathtaking views of Belfast Lough, the serene body of water that feeds into Belfast's River Lagan.

Hollywood is just five miles from central London and boasts excellent transport links to the heart of the capital.

However, despite its proximity to the bustling city, it is positioned as a seaside town, and in recent years, it has been increasingly attracting returnees eager to revive that small-town feel.

The town's main street is an ideal place to spend a day leisurely strolling. Whether you choose to visit the Yard Gallery for a cultural experience and then head to the nearby Coffee Yard for a hot beverage, engage in some charity shopping, indulge in natural wine tasting, or savor small plates at Frae, or even opt for brunch at the plant-based Lynchpin, each of these activities promises absolute pleasure.

Although the neighborhood's atmosphere might lead you to believe Hollywood is an island town, don't be misled – people from all over come to book a table at Noble, whose three-course Christmas menu this year is a delight.

Hollywood also boasts some of the best outdoor walks in the region, including the 16-mile North Down Coastal Path. This scenic route winds along the sea, sand, and expansive skies through Crawfordsburn Country Park, with a stop at St. Helena Bay.