Join the Blarney Army and other Belfast, United Kingdom Sports Travel Tips

Theme: Sports Watching

Ireland are not renowned as great exponents of cricket although they do have an international team that plays against the English Counties, and Glamorgan, in a limited overs competition. Their home games are split between six grounds in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Games in Belfast are played within the grounds of the impressive Stormont Estate, home to the Northern Ireland Assembley. On my visit to Belfast I noticed that they were playing against Leicestershire so went along to join the Blarney Army* in cheering on the boys in green. It was unfortunately in vain as they lost by 81 runs but it was a very pleasant ground and a good day. Although tickets were available in advance they could also be easily purchased on the gate and there was plenty of room for spectators inside the ground. There was no designated seating but fold up chairs were available all around the ground and visitors were allowed into the pavilion.

* The Blarney Army is a word play on the Barmy Army which is the collective name given to a large group of dedicated England cricket supporters who follow the team around the world.


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Phone: 028 9076 3325
Address: Upper Newtownards Road
Directions: Games played at the Civil Service North of Ireland CC. Take the number 4 bus from the City Centre and get off just past the main entrance and large iron gates of the Stormont Estate.