Lisburn was granted city status by the Queen in 2002. Situated just 10 miles south of Belfast, the city's rebranded Historic Quarter dates back to the 17th Century and was destroyed in the great fire of 1707. Its rebuilt streetscape remains pretty much unchanged to this day and is home to the Irish Linen Centre & Lisburn Museum. Interactive exhibitions focus on the Irish linen industry and local history and there's also a popular on-site cafe and gift shop.

Wallace Park provides 26 verdant acres of walks close to the city centre with a duck pond, Victorian bandstand, sports pitches and copiously equipped play park. And Castle Gardens is another tranquil landscaped oasis right at the heart of the city beside Lisburn Cathedral. The Island Civic Centre is a shiny, state-of-the-art cultural hub that attracts local and visiting acts and hosts regular exhibitions. Outside, an eye-catching water jet blasts skywards and a sculpture trail wends its way past eight works of public art set in the surrounding gardens. Families should also head to Lagan Valley LeisurePlex where pools, flumes and a lazy river ensure squeals of aquatic delight.

Bow Street Mall, Lisburn Square and, a short drive away, Sprucefield Shopping Centre form the city's main shopping areas. While sports fans can follow in the footsteps of royalty at Down Royal Racecourse or check out local football team Lisburn Distillery at New Grosvenor Stadium.