Across Northern Ireland there’s plenty of amazing castles and gardens to visit, with entertainment for all ages. In this blog we've rounded up some of the best options for each county, with suggestions of nearby attractions and places to eat too, because all that exploring is bound to work up an appetite!
Castles in Belfast and Antrim
Heading north-east from Belfast city you come to Carrickfergus, where Carrickfergus Castle has been guarding Belfast Lough since 1177. It's in excellent condition, and the only preserved castle of its age which is open to the public, so take advantage of this unique opportunity to explore a medieval structure and bring history to life. Nearby there’s a perfect pit-stop for pub grub at Ownies or PaPa Browns Grill beside the castle or try The Bank House‘s tasty family fare in the centre of Whitehead.
Over towards the east of the city, check out a castle with a difference at Stormont Castle Estate, which features the Mo Mowlam Playpark, as well as several woodland trails, a dog park, outdoor gym and boardwalk. There's also a coffee shop and toilets on site. Awarded its ninth consecutive Green Flag award in 2022, there's lots of greenery to enjoy here, as well as a picnic tables and barbecue areas, plus there's Stormont Castle itself which is home to the Northern Ireland Executive. Note that the building is closed to the public except for European Heritage weekend, during which time it opens its doors to the public.
In terms of outdoor spaces across Belfast to enjoy, in the Belfast Hills wee ones love the Gruffalo Trail at Colin Glen where they can stop for a photo op with an 8ft-high version of The Gruffalo, after finding all his storybook friends along a winding path through the woods.
Or if a waterside setting is more what you're after, Lagan Valley Regional Park connects Shaw's Bridge with Belfast and Lisburn, via the towpath. Look out for the coffee shop at the Lock Keeper's Cottage which makes for a great pit stop, with locally sourced coffee, ice cream and tray bakes.
Heading back out of the city, and into Antrim, young sea dogs love Antrim Lough Shore Park where there is a nautical themed play park. Located on the shores of Lough Neagh, this is a popular destination for visitors with the Six Mile Water river path incorporating Antrim Castle Gardens & Clotworthy House, one of the UK's most historically intact gardens.
Causeway Coast and Glens
North from Carrickfergus, hug the coast and you’ll find yourself on the magnificent Causeway Coastal Route. One of the first major stops along the way is Glenarm Castle which features an enchanting Walled Garden famed for its tulips and flower displays, plus the delightful Tea Room on site serves up delicious lunches and light bites.
Further along the Causeway Coastal Route, midway between Cushendall and Ballycastle, is Ballypatrick Forest’s short forest drive which takes in gorgeous views of Rathlin Island, and carrying on up the coast road eventually leads you to Castlerock. This small seaside town is where you’ll find the National Trust's Mussenden Temple perched on a cliff edge. While it's not a castle by definition, the architecture of the building is incredibly regal, and the placement of the temple makes for a spectacular sight, while the views out over the sea are uncomparable.
A short drive from Castlerock leads to Roe Valley Country Park, near Limavady, offering spectacular riverside views and woodland walks, as well as delicious treats and substantial bites in Ritters Tea Room. Nearby Binevenagh Forest is home to the Finn MacCool Finger Stone, relating to the famous giant reputed to have lived nearby. There's lots to see and do here, so make sure to take the time to take it all in and enjoy the best of the local architecture and nature.
County Down
Venture a little south from Belfast and you never know who you might see at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, the official residence of the royal family in Northern Ireland. For a fee you can explore its throne room and get a peek at the informal living room, complete with Windsor family photos, but on sunny (or just dry) days there’s nothing like setting out a family picnic on its stunning lawns. There's two cafes on site too, with a wide range of refreshments handmade on site, with ingredients grown in the gardens. One Sunday each month, a hearty roast dinner is served - perhaps the only opportunity you'll have to say you'd dinner at a royal residence! Nearby, the picturesque village of Royal Hillsborough also has terrific play parks on either side of the Hillsborough Lake, which makes for a lovely walk any day of the week. Admission is free and there are lots of sculptures hidden throughout the forest too, which makes for an added element of interest.
From here, can head east in the direction of Strangford Lough, and reconnect with nature at the magnificent Montalto Estate near Ballynahinch. This beautiful country estate was until recently a private family home, and it offers lots of well-maintained trails and walks, as well as an exciting playpark and on site cafe. Located just 30 minutes from Belfast, it's a welcome opportunity to reconnect with nature that's close by.
Continue towards Downpatrick and step into the National Trust's Castle Ward to delight in the flora and fauna around Temple Water, including the rare green woodpecker which can be spotted around the Boundary Trail, or explore the ruined castle on the Loughshore Walk.
If you're heading back towards Belfast following a visit to Castle Ward, the best - and most fun! - route is by crossing Strangford Lough on the ferry to Portaferry. Consider stopping at The Cuan for a tasty portion of locally caught, fresh seafood, which makes for a lovely meal with an enviable view out over this lovely little town.
Another County Down gem is Crawfordsburn Country Park outside Bangor. This is a real treat for the kids with two beaches, a stunning waterfall and loads of hedgehogs and rabbits roaming around, not forgetting Grey Point Fort which is open to visit on Saturdays and Sundays. The Loaf Pottery and Coffee Shop in Crawfordsburn is worth a visit after a day in the country park, or family favourite Little Wing pizzeria in Holywood on the way back to Belfast is one that everyone will enjoy.
Other green spaces in this county include the Narnia Trail at Kilbroney Forest Park, which - spoiler alert! - has to be entered via a wardrobe door, or Castlewellan Forest Park which has a great maze to explore plus excellent mountain bike trails and a lake for kayaking or SUPing when the weather’s fine.
County Armagh
The Navan Centre and Fort outside Armagh city, is where myths come alive. Meet Iron Age Celts, and learn about the bravest of them all – Cú Chulainn and his warrior gang. Navan Fort is also considered to be what brought Saint Patrick to Armagh, the Ecclesiastical Capital of Ireland, and it's this, along with the discovery space and ecology trail which really bring the area to life.
Head south in the Orchard County to Slieve Gullion Forest Park, where the Giant’s Lair story trail will keep young minds enthralled for hours. Ireland's "Mountain of Mystery" offers visitors numerous walking trails, an adventure playpark, and Fionn's Giant Adventure Trail, a forest path which brings to life the rich tapestry of local legend and mythical folklore through sculptures, statues and installations throughout the park.
At Oxford Island in Craigavon, you’ve miles of walking paths, birdwatching hides and meadows to explore, as well as a brand new play park to run around. And don’t forget the hidden gem of Lurgan Park – if it’s possible to keep 259 acres hidden! Go rowing on the lake or stick to the walking paths if you’re more of a landlubber. Nip to the nearby, quaint Brownlow House Tea Room if you’re peckish where everyone from primary school age and upwards can also get a taste of local and world history.
To satisfy the hunger pangs, get fed and watered at Uluru in Armagh city centre, Café IncredABLE in Lurgan or Craigavon’s Loughside Café on Lough Neagh’s shores while Chimes Coffee House in Portadown is another great spot for quick bites.
County Fermanagh
County Fermanagh, the capital of lakelands country, has a whole host of castles and beautiful gardens dotted in between its lakes, rivers, canals and streams. Perched dominantly on Lough Erne’s banks, Enniskillen Castle harks back almost 600 years and its fascinating story unfolds inside its own museum. Castle Archdale outside Irvinestown not only boasts beautiful lough shore walks, but also its former WW2 flying boat base. For stately grandeur, Castle Coole is a total treat with a stunning wooded park sloping down to Lough Coole – and check out its quirky servant's tunnel. Cladagh Glen Walk near Belcoo features cascading waterfalls and cave springs while Lough Navar Forest is a jewel in the awesome crown of the Marble Arch Caves geopark system.
You’ll be hungry after all that, so The TapHouse in Enniskillen serves great value family fare as do The Firehouse and Franco’s in the town, while the Customs House Inn in Belcoo will hit the spot with your gang.
Derry-Londonderry
If you’re looking for a castle in Derry-Londonderry, you’re surrounded by one! The City Walls form a walkway around the inner city with unique views of the original town. No visit is complete without completing this magnificent circular trail where you’ll find numerous bastions, cannons, battlements, gates and wonderful vantage points over the old and new city.
In the city, The Playtrail is a real fun place to bring your gang with something for all ages in the adventure areas, sensory garden and fairy walk. Or pop into Ness Country Park near Killaloo, named for one of the highest waterfalls in Northern Ireland including its magnificent waterfall walk. Or head to Garvagh Forest for walking, cycling and mountain bike trails for all abilities.
If you’re ravenous in the city, you won’t go wrong at Caterina’s Bistro or Solo. There’s a big Italian welcome at Nonnas Wood Fired Pizza and Spaghetti Junction while further afield White Goose Tea Room in Garvagh will do you the power of good.
County Tyrone
Take a tour of Killymoon Castle on the outskirts of Cookstown and learn how its designer also just happened to design London’s Regent Street and Buckingham Palace… or how a former owner once lost it in a bet! History buffs can’t miss a visit to Harry Avery’s Castle in Newtownstewart , a stone castle built in the 12th century by an O’Neill clan chieftain and very rare for its era. Meanwhile at The Argory in Moy riverside trails, snowdrop walks and adventure playground await.
If you’re near Cookstown, head straight to Drum Manor Forest Park and let the kids pedal their bikes or hit Gortin Glen Forest Park just outside Omagh with its network of woodland trails nestled in the Sperrins. If you’re in Omagh, The Grange Park is a family-friendly green space with picnic facilities, playground and an eco-trail. Don’t forget to make a wish at the wishing well in Dungannon’s Parkanaur Park.
Feeling famished? Enjoy afternoon tea and award-winning scones in Lady Ada’s Tea Room at The Argory. Sallys in Omagh has everything to keep hangry demons at bay. If you find yourself in Cookstown, the renowned Time Bar and Venue has a bit of a hidden secret: its bistro offers one of the best children’s menus in the mid-Ulster area, and in a very contemporary setting.
As you can see there’s no shortage of castles and gardens from all eras and with an appeal to all ages here in Northern Ireland. And that’s just flavour of what your family can discover on a trip around the various castles and gardens you'll find in each county. If you're off exploring, we’d love to hear your thoughts using our hashtag #EmbraceAGiantSpirit
It’s Ireland’s only official Gruffalo Trail; a Julia Donaldson-endorsed walk. Step into the glorious world of the Gruffalo. Enter the deep, dark wood, meet the clever little mouse, the fox, the owl, the snake, before stumbling upon those knobbly knees and turned out toes and that poisonous wart on the end of his nose: The Gruffalo!
Colin Glen is Ireland’s leading adventure park - a land of storytelling and a state of the art sports park with world class attractions. From Alpine coasteering to laser tag, golfing to the Gruffalo Trail, Colin Glen has adventure for everyone.
Stormont Estate is a Green Flag Award winning public park recognised as one of Northern Ireland’s best green spaces. On a visit, you can enjoy the beautiful gardens, walking and fitness trails and children’s play park.
Lagan Valley Regional Park is recognised as Northern Ireland's only Regional Park. It covers an area of 4,200 acres and extends 11 miles along both sides of the River Lagan between Stranmillis, Belfast to Union Locks, Lisburn.
Situated on the shores of Lough Neagh, the Lough Shore Park in Antrim is a popular destination for visitors and residents at all times of the year. It is an area steeped in history and natural beauty with many attractions and activities to enjoy.
Simple rustic, tasty Italian food is the order of the day at this popular and casual East Belfast eatery, inspired by the Italian restaurants on Manhattan's Lower East side and named after veteran cyclist Marco Pantani (‘The Pirate').
For more than 800 years, Carrickfergus Castle has been an imposing monument on the Northern Irish landscape whether approached by land, sea or air. The castle now houses historical displays as well as cannons from the 17th to the 19th centuries.
Ownies Bar and Bistro is one of Irelands finest Gastro Pubs, it offers the highest standards of service and food and drink while maintaining the warm atmosphere of an Irish Pub. It is famous for its seafood chowder and its home made Deserts.
Relaxed colonial-style diner and bar serving an all-day menu, within easy walking distance of Carrickfergus Castle and located on the main Causeway Coastal Route.
The Bank House café and gift shop is a lively, warm, inviting destination, specialising in good, quality, local food, crafts, art, live music and craic. Find this hidden gem in the centre of Whitehead, on the beautiful Causeway Coastal Route.
Crowned "Historic Houses 2023 Garden of the Year", Glenarm Castle and its walled gardens are a true national treasure. One of Ireland's oldest estates, and home to the Earls of Antrim, Glenarm Castle offers incredible garden walks, with stunning planting displays year round. Don't miss the annual tulip festival which takes place every May.
Step into the heart of Glenarm Castle's estate and discover our cosy Tea Room, nestled in the historic Mushroom House within the enchanting Walled Garden. Open daily, it's a rare gem in Northern Ireland, offering visitors the unique experience of savouring Glenarm shorthorn beef. You have the choice to add a trip to the Walled Garden, but please note there's an extra charge. Alternatively, simply indulge in the Tea Room's offerings. Enjoy hearty breakfasts from 10:00 to 11:30, delicious lunch dishes from 12:00 to 16:00, and the laid-back charm of our Tea Room. Check our socials for upcoming events.
Five-mile drive through peatland forest with many fine views of Rathlin Island and Ballycastle. A variety of picnic sites, a short walk and toilets on site.
Amidst the rugged landscape of this isolated island, you can let your mind wander and discover a tranquillity and beauty that is so unexpected.
Mussenden Temple is located in the beautiful surroundings of Downhill Demesne near Castlerock in County Londonderry. Awe inspiring views, colourful gardens and woodland walks.
This scenic and tranquil park on the outskirts of Limavady offers spectacular riverside views and woodland walks along with opportunities for salmon and trout fishing, canoeing, rock climbing and orienteering.
Explore Northern Ireland's royal residence, where worlds and minds meet. Relax in 100 acres of picturesque gardens, explore the State Rooms still used today and indulge in delicious food and drink in our café.
Montalto Estate in Ballynahinch is a mystical and enchanting estate, set in magnificent natural surroundings. Visitor experience includes access to the estate's beautiful gardens; historic walks and trails and an exciting play area where children can engage, explore and learn.
Discover a place of contrasts and creativity at Castle Ward, an eccentric 18th century mansion and estate looking out over the tranquil waters of Strangford Lough in County Down where visitors can explore cultivated gardens, sheltered woodland and the shoreline.
***Temporary Suspension of Normal Ferry Service **** Essential health and safety work will be carried out at slipways in Portaferry and Strangford, 14 October 2024 and last for 5 weeks. Alternative arrangements intended for passengers include a passenger only ferry operating a reduced timetable.
With tranquil walks through peaceful meadows and wooded glens and a stunning waterfall, Crawfordsburn Country Park provides a relaxing natural retreat.
Situated in Helen's Bay, Grey Point Fort is one of the best preserved early 20th century coastal forts anywhere in the British Isles.
Kilbroney Park Forest features riverside walks and an arboretum. There is a two-mile forest drive which showcases panoramic views over Carlingford Lough. There is also a Play Park with children's play area and tennis courts, an Information area and a café all on site.
Castlewellan Forest Park boasts a stunning Victorian Castle, incredible panoramic views, scenic walking trails, 27 km of mountain bike trails, nature play perfect for the kids, an on-site multi-activity centre, hedge maze and equestrian centre, making it a must-visit for all ages.
Our arts centre features a working pottery with an in house potter, pottery for sale, arts classes and activities for children. While our Café offers delicious artisan wood fired pizza, sharing deli boards and a range of sweet treats.
Why Little Wing pizza?… …Because our passion for pizza shines through! Just taste one of our yummy, traditionally made Naples style pizzas and you’ll know what we’re talking about.
Navan Centre, located just two miles from the Cathedral City of Armagh, interprets one of Ireland’s most important ancient monuments, Navan Fort; the ancient capital and seat of the Kings of Ulster.
Slieve Gullion is Ireland's Mountain of Mystery. The Forest Park offers walking trails, a scenic drive, an Adventure Playpark, Fionn's Giant Adventure children's story trail and Courtyard with coffee shop.
Oxford Island National Nature Reserve is a peninsula created by successive lowering of Lough Neagh. Four miles of footpaths, five birdwatching hides, woodland, ponds, wildflower meadows, picnic and play areas.
Lurgan Park is the second largest public park in Ireland, and is enjoyed by as many as 2000 people every day. The beautifully landscaped parkland contains a number of well maintained paths which provide excellent walking and running ground.
Brownlow House Tea Room is situated in Brownlow House and serves breakfasts, freshly baked scones, tray bakes, chef special lunches, specialised teas and coffees.
Breakfast menu available all day. Delicious lunch and light bite dishes. Wide range of gluten free options. Slimmers menu. Homemade traybakes and desserts. Kids play area and kids menu. Afternoon tea available (pre-book!) Warm, friendly service.
Situated beside the River Erne in County Fermanagh, was built almost 600 years ago by Gaelic Maguires. It was strategically important throughout its history. In the 17th century it became a garrison fort and later a military barracks. Enjoy the many seasonal events and exhibitions including The Inniskillings Museum within the castle grounds and Fermanagh County Museum's Medieval Maguires display.
The country park boasts beautiful woodland and lough shore walks, an insect garden and wildflower meadow. Castle Archdale was the main flying boat base during WWII, highlighted in an exhibition in the visitor centre entitled ‘Castle Archdale at War’.
Castle Coole one of Ireland's finest Neo-classical houses, allowing visitors to glimpse what life was like in the home of the Earls of Belmore. Discover the story of the people who lived and worked below stairs as you explore the servants quarters.
Seven-mile drive through the forest to a magnificent panorama over Lough Erne. Viewpoints, picnic sites. Red deer, wild goats. Marked trails. Wheelchair access limited.
The Firehouse Bar & Grill is one known by the locals and visitors to be one of Enniskillen's best eateries and cocktail bars in the town. Boasting a menu full of flavours and great choice, cooked from a stone baked pizza oven and famous bertha oven, perfect for grilled steaks, burgers and more!
Franco's Restaurant in Enniskillen is a vibrant, buzzing restaurant run by the Sweeney family for over 30 years.
Derry~Londonderry is the only remaining completely walled city in Ireland and is one of the finest examples of Walled Cities in Europe. A walk around the walls reveals a city crammed full of history, heritage, interest and a vibrant cultural scene.
The Playtrail is an outdoor play & educational resource that hosts an on-going programme of activities for children.
In the steep, wooded Glen of the Burntollet River, south-east of Derry/Londonderry, lies Ness Country park. Enjoy over 7km of riverside walks and there's a visitor centre, a natural themed play park, stunning waterfall and picnic tables.
Covering 200 hectares, Garvagh forest is situated on the Western outskirts of Garvagh, with trees from over 80 years onl to those only planted at the turn of the century.
Enjoy a foodie experience like no other at Da Vinci's Hotel, Derry. Caterina's Bistro offers award winning food & service in a stunning & modern setting.
Traditional Italian style pizzas from our wood fired oven. Nonnas is a casual family owned restaurant that uses only the best local and artisan Italian ingredients, as well as having a range of local craft beers and wines.
Spaghetti Junction is Derry's first truly authentic Italian restaurant. There's a few things that we hold close to our heart and we show it through our restaurant.
Killymoon castle sits in picturesque surroundings overlooking the Ballinderry River on the outskirts of Cookstown just 50 miles from Belfast by car. The castle is a grade A listed building designed by the famous architect John Nash.
Thought to have been built around 1320 by a local chieftain of the O’Neill clan, but named after Harry Avery O’Neill,a local chief who died in 1392, this structure is considered unusual in that Irish chieftain’s of the time rarely built stone castle.
The Argory was built in the 1820s and its hilltop location offers wonderful views over the gardens and 320 acre wooded riverside estate.
The attractive eighteenth-century demesne is now a forest park. Colourful in spring and autumn with a shrub, butterfly and Japanese garden, arboretum, ponds and mixed woodlands.
There are over 10km of walking trails, a 6km scenic drive, wildfowl enclosure and deer enclosure and a new children's playpark to enjoy and explore.
Colourful in spring with daffodils and rhododendrons and home to a herd of white fallow deer. Nature trail runs through oak and beech trees, passing a Victorian garden, wishing well and old archway. Free access. Wheelchair access.
Mid-Ulster’s most premium Bar and Nightclub with three floors offering a unique bar and nightclub experience under one roof. TIME offers an opulent bar and bistro offering on the ground floor 5 days a week.
