Linen is just one part of the tapestry of city life in Lisburn, but it's an interesting one. Favoured by European royalty, Irish linen was the fabric chosen for the napkins on the Titanic, and was even used in Neil Armstrong's parachute!
Of course, there's a lot more to Lisburn than cafés and shops. The city's pretty parks tell the story of the great benefactor Sir Richard Wallace, who donated 50 fountains to Paris and Lisburn to commemorate the ending of the Siege of Paris in 1871. Lisburn also marks the start of the Lagan Towpath: a beautiful, 18km long trail that follows the Lagan river from Belfast to Lisburn – perfect for hikers and cyclists.
Want to discover more about the city's textile past? Then head to the Irish Linen Centre and Lisburn Museum. The linen heyday was the 18th century, when manufacturing was at a peak, and you can learn all about its history here.
Go to the races at Down Royal Racecourse!
A short 15-minute drive from Lisburn is Hillsborough village where you'll find Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, the official residence of the Queen and the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when they in town. The castle and gardens are open to the public so don't miss the chance to enjoy the elegant State Dining Room and Candlestick Hall.
For true romantics, the castle is certain to delight. If those trees in the grounds could talk, they would undoubtedly whisper about the affair of Edward VIII and Mrs Simpson. Rumour has it they used to sneak down to the local pub in Hillsborough village when they were staying!