All Cities – Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland offers a striking mix of compact cities, strong-willed towns, and rural communities steeped in tradition. With its patchwork of counties and often overlapping identities, the region blends natural beauty, industrial legacy, and a pace of life that varies sharply from Belfast’s city centre to the quiet shores of Lough Erne.
Below is a complete list of recognised cities, towns, and key settlements in Northern Ireland. The places are arranged alphabetically and grouped by size. Whether you're interested in regional infrastructure, property trends, or simply getting your bearings, this breakdown gives a reliable overview of the area.
Established Cities & Towns
| Name of City or Town | County |
|---|---|
| Belfast | County Antrim / County Down |
| Derry / Londonderry | County Londonderry |
| Lisburn | County Antrim / County Down |
| Newry | County Down / County Armagh |
| Armagh | County Armagh |
| Bangor | County Down |
General Towns
| Name of City or Town | County |
|---|---|
| Antrim | County Antrim |
| Ballymena | County Antrim |
| Ballymoney | County Antrim |
| Banbridge | County Down |
| Carryduff | County Down |
| Coleraine | County Londonderry |
| Cookstown | County Tyrone |
| Craigavon | County Armagh |
| Downpatrick | County Down |
| Dungannon | County Tyrone |
| Enniskillen | County Fermanagh |
| Holywood | County Down |
| Larne | County Antrim |
| Limavady | County Londonderry |
| Lurgan | County Armagh |
| Magherafelt | County Londonderry |
| Newtownabbey | County Antrim |
| Newtownards | County Down |
| Omagh | County Tyrone |
| Portadown | County Armagh |
Smaller Towns & Villages
| Name of City or Town | County |
|---|---|
| Ahoghill | County Antrim |
| Aughnacloy | County Tyrone |
| Ballycastle | County Antrim |
| Ballyclare | County Antrim |
| Ballynahinch | County Down |
| Belleek | County Fermanagh |
| Carndonagh | County Donegal* |
| Castlederg | County Tyrone |
| Comber | County Down |
| Crossmaglen | County Armagh |
| Crumlin | County Antrim |
| Donaghadee | County Down |
| Dromore | County Down |
| Eglinton | County Londonderry |
| Fivemiletown | County Tyrone |
| Garvagh | County Londonderry |
| Gilford | County Down |
| Kesh | County Fermanagh |
| Killyleagh | County Down |
| Maghera | County Londonderry |
| Moira | County Down |
| Newcastle | County Down |
| Newbuildings | County Londonderry |
| Portstewart | County Londonderry |
| Randalstown | County Antrim |
| Rostrevor | County Down |
| Saintfield | County Down |
| Strabane | County Tyrone |
| Tandragee | County Armagh |
| Warrenpoint | County Down |
FAQs About Northern Ireland Cities and Towns
How many cities are there in Northern Ireland?
There are officially five cities: Belfast, Derry / Londonderry, Lisburn, Newry, and Armagh. Bangor was also granted city status in 2022, bringing the total to six. Despite their modest size, these cities have major cultural, political, or economic significance.
Is Newry part of County Armagh or County Down?
Newry straddles both. The River Clanrye runs through the city and historically separates County Armagh from County Down. Today, it's governed as a single area but remains split across both counties by geography.
Which towns are growing quickly?
Places like Lisburn, Craigavon, Newtownabbey, and Bangor have seen steady residential development. Improved infrastructure, newer housing stock, and strong commuter appeal help drive their expansion.
Is Derry the same as Londonderry?
Yes. Both names refer to the same city. "Derry" is commonly used by locals and in everyday conversation, while "Londonderry" is often used in formal or official contexts. It's one of the few places in the UK where both names are legally recognised.
What are some scenic or tourist-focused towns?
Newcastle, Ballycastle, Portstewart, and Enniskillen all offer natural beauty, access to the coast or lakes, and a peaceful pace of life. These spots are popular with visitors and also attract those looking for a slower lifestyle within reach of essentials.