Official tourism website for Northern Ireland

Glenarm Castle and Gardens

You are here: Home > Destinations > County Antrim > Activities & Attractions in County Antrim

Activities & Attractions in Antrim

Antrim’s position in the north-east corner has given it a central role in the history of Northern Ireland and its neighbours. The county is peppered with some of the finest castles and historic heritage sites on the island. As you make your way around, it’s not hard to see why it has been chosen as the location for so many TV shows and movies known for their epic grandeur and scale.

Back in time at Antrim Castle Gardens

Antrim Castle Gardens, a 400-year-old gem is located just outside Antrim town itself near the shores of Lough Neagh. It features the famous Italian Tower, the playful Her Ladyship’s Pleasure Garden and the elegant Yew Tree Pond. Within the heart of the Gardens is a unique visitor experience, the refurbished Clotworthy House where you’ll find out all about the gardens and the story of their owners - the highly influential Massereene family. Take the chance to check out the 10th century round tower in Antrim, a prominent reminder of the town’s role as an ancient monastic settlement.

Across the Lough lies Carrickfergus Castle

Castle hunters are spoilt for choice in this part of the world. At the imposing Carrickfergus Castle overlooking Belfast Lough, you’ll find an excellent example of what the Normans were able to put together when they got here 800 years ago; yet remains one of the best preserved medieval structures in Ireland. A recent excavation uncovered an escape tunnel under the castle. You would do well to locate it just in case you run into ‘Button Cap’, the resident ghost.

Walk the glorious, gut-wrenching Gobbins Cliff Path

Roused by all those tales of valour and knights in shining armour, you’ll no doubt be tempted to test your own mettle. You will need it if you decide to take the walk along the world famous Gobbins Cliff Path. This spectacular cliff walk was originally built in 1902 by a railway engineer with an apparent dash of the daredevil in him. A dramatic and challenging experience with steep narrow steps and striking suspension bridges. The payback is huge though as the views along the rugged coast are spectacular.

Gorgeous grounds of Glenarm Castle

Further up the coast from the aforementioned Carrickfergus, sits a very different but no less impressive fortification, Glenarm Castle. This has been part of the McDonnell family since 1686. They still own and live on the grounds but thankfully they like to have visitors to enjoy its world-famous walled garden. This little piece of heaven was in fact used in the movie Five Minutes from Heaven starring Liam Neeson and James Nesbitt.

Count the Glens of Antrim

There are nine Glens of Antrim and each of them has their own unique character, offering spectacular views and hidden gems of history in equal measure. For walkers, The Glens can be tackled through two waymarked footpaths. The Ulster Way will take you through dramatic seaside scenery and coastal villages, while the 32km Moyle Way runs inland across the plateau from Glenariff Forest Park to Ballycastle.

Stop in the picturesque towns and villages dotted along the Glen's path for a real taste of local life, including Glenarm, Carnlough, Cushendall and Cushendun - each of which has a distinct story to tell. In Cushendun, you’ll find the famous Caves, one of the many spectacular spots that were used in the filming of Game of Thrones®. And look out for the beloved sculpture of ‘Johann’ the goat – a famous local resident!

Make your way through The Dark Hedges

Of course, every fan of Game of Thrones® will want to make their way to the famous Dark Hedges outside Ballymoney. When the renowned Stuart family planted this beautiful avenue of beech trees in the eighteenth century they did so to impress those approaching their marvellous mansion at Gracehill House. They could hardly have guessed how famous these ‘dark hedges’ would become. And today they are unarguably the most photographed beech trees in the world. It's atmospheric and impressive, regardless of the weather, so if you've time definitely mark this on your map.

Step into the Island life on Rathlin

Hop on the ferry to Rathlin Island, Northern Ireland’s only inhabited off-shore island. There's lots of scenic walking trails to enjoy, and take the opportunity to learn about island life at the Boathouse Visitor Centre. Home to the largest breeding seabird colonies in Europe and RSPB Seabird Centre, birdwatchers and nature lovers will delight in a trip. Or for something different, head for Rathlin West Light which is known locally as the ‘upside down’ lighthouse.

Swing over to Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

If that isn’t enough excitement for one holiday then the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is exactly what you’re after. Connecting a tiny island with the mainland, this once-temporary structure was built specially by salmon fishermen, and although the rickety rope bridge has been replaced with a much sturdier version, even in the lightest of breezes you might feel it...sway a little.

The site car park will be open at weekends for visitors to walk this section of the Causeway Coastal Route, with a £5 charge for car parking, free for National Trust members and local pass holders.

Stop and sip at Bushmills Distillery

For whiskey lovers, a visit to Ireland’s oldest working distillery at Bushmills is a must. After taking the excellent behind-the-scenes tour of the Old Bushmills Distillery you will get to sample a wee dram for yourself. Just be sure you’ve crossed all those tricky bridges beforehand.

A cliff edge castle at Dunluce

Heading west out of Bushmills, the coastal route reveals one of the jewels in Northern Ireland's crown, Dunluce Castle. Perched dramatically on the cliffs of the coast, this breathtaking castle ruin has inspired artists and writers through the centuries. Built around 1500 by the local MacQuillan family, it was later seized by the Scottish MacDonnell clan and boasts a tumultuous history. Take some time to immerse yourself in the fascinating history of this castle via the audio-visual tour.

Find your port of call in Portrush

Just a 10-minute drive west of Dunluce Castle you’ll find the fun loving seaside town of Portrush. Set on a mile-long peninsula with glorious blue flag beaches either side and an impressive rocky edge, the town is full of charm and plenty to keep you entertained. This picturesque seaside town has grown from a small fishing village into a very popular holiday destination for Northern Ireland locals and those from all over the world. The town is filled with friendly people and tonnes of activities for people of all ages including a world-renowned golf course and the largest amusement park in Ireland.

Last, but not least, the Giant’s Causeway

According to legend, Finn McCool, a giant of Irish mythology, built a bridge to challenge his arch enemy in Scotland. Though we’re famous for our engineering prowess, that one is a bit of a stretch. In fact, the Giant's Causeway was engineered by mother nature and came about as a result of a volcanic eruption that left behind this strange but magical patchwork of basalt. The geographical wonder is Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site. The legend and the truth of their formation are all explained in fine detail at the state-of-the-art visitor centre, from where you can stroll down to the stones (or take the shuttle bus) and hopscotch across the smooth stone platforms.

If that little lot hasn’t left you yearning for an epic adventure on this county steeped in epic legends, awesome natural architecture and jaw-dropping views, then there’s a whole lot more epic-ness just waiting to be discovered.

Plan your trip

Stay
What's On
Things to Do
Food & Drink
Shopping

Things to Do Search

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

What's On Search

Dates

Start Date:

End Date:

Any date in the future

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

Food & Drink Search

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

Shopping Search

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

Number of results: 440

, currently showing 1 to 20.

Sort By A-Z Lowest A-Z Highest

Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
816 reviews
HMS Caroline

Belfast

Address

Alexandra Dock, Queen's Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT3 9DT

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9289 1370

enquiries@nmrn.org.uk
Gradings
- Five Star Quality Assurance
Type

Type:

Visitor Centres & Museums

The World War One warship HMS Caroline is the last surviving ship from the 1916 Battle of Jutland, the largest naval battle of the conflict. Now a floating museum, it invites its visitors to experience the highs and lows of life at sea. By stepping…
More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Leisure Facilities
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
26677 reviews
Titanic Belfast

Belfast

Address

1 Olympic Way, Queen's Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT3 9EP

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9076 6386

welcome@titanicbelfast.com

Price
Price £24.95 to £62.00 Per Ticket
Gradings
- Five Star Quality Assurance
Type

Type:

Visitor Centres & Museums

Welcome to Titanic Belfast, an award-winning visitor experience offering the opportunity to learn about Titanic’s history, just a few minutes from where the ship herself was famously designed, built and launched in 1911. This self-guided tour tells…

Dates
Price
Price £24.95 to £62.00 Per Ticket

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Leisure Facilities
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
11839 reviews
Giant's Causeway

Bushmills

Address

44 Causeway Road, Bushmills, County Antrim, BT57 8SU

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2073 1855

giantscausewaytic@nationaltrust.org.uk
Gradings
- Five Star Quality Assurance
Type

Type:

The National Trust

Flanked by the wild North Atlantic Ocean and a landscape of dramatic cliffs, the Giant's Causeway is a geological wonder and home to a wealth of history and legend. The 40,000 basalt stone columns left by volcanic eruptions 60 million years ago, has…
More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs Welcome Inside
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Off site parking - Causeway Coast Way Car Park available at 60 Causeway Road for walkers with a PayByPhone system and a charge of £5. Spaces limited and available on a first come, first served basis only.
- On site parking - Main car park on site reserved for Visitor Experience ticket holders and members. Book online in advance of your visit.
Facilities

Leisure Facilities
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1342 reviews
The Gobbins Cliff Path

Islandmagee

Address

The Gobbins Visitor Centre, 68 Middle Road, Islandmagee, County Antrim, BT40 3SL

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9337 2318

info@thegobbinscliffpath.com
Gradings
- Four Star Quality Assurance
Type

Type:

Outdoors

On the thrilling Gobbins Experience, nature isn’t content to just sit back and be admired. It completely engulfs you: from the all-enveloping Irish Sea winds and the dolphins dancing off the coastline. Pull on your walking boots and enjoy this 2…
More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Leisure Facilities
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
118 reviews
Giant Tours Ireland

Ballycastle

Address

North Street, Ballycastle, County Antrim, BT54 6BW

Telephone
+44 (0) 7555 665 900

flip@gianttoursireland.com

Type

Type:

GoT Guided Tours

Visit off-the-beaten-track filming locations from Game of Thrones® in the company of a real expert.

More Info
Inside Glenarm Castle & Garden

Glenarm

Address

Castle Lane, Glenarm, County Antrim, BT44 0BQ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2884 1203

info@glenarmcastle.com

Type

Type:

Historical Tours

Become the distinguished guests of Lord and Lady Dunluce on an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Glenarm Castle and Garden.

More Info
Belfast Music Walking Tour

Belfast

Address

Creative Tours Belfast, Ulster Hall, Bedford Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT2 7FF

Telephone
+44 (0) 7305 754 028

CreativeToursBelfast@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Guided Tour

Belfast has a rich, storied tradition in both music-making and playing, and was designated a UNESCO City of Music in 2021. Your guide around this musical city is Dolores Vischer of Creative Tours Belfast, who will accompany you to sites of musical…

More Info
Making Your Mark on the Causeway Coast

Portrush

Address

61 Main Street, Portrush, County Antrim, BT56 8BN

Telephone
+44 (0) 2870 822 010

frankiejhill@gmail.com

Price
Price £85.00 Activity

Type

Type:

Craft Workshops and courses

This artistic workshop involves all the senses and helps you find your inner creative voice. You’ll be working towards the creation of your own masterpiece, which once home will always remind you of your time spent on the beautiful Causeway Coast.

Price
Price £85.00 Activity

More Info
Dunfin Farm Sheep Experience

Ballycastle

Address

1 Glentop Road, Ballycastle, County Antrim, BT54 6QF

Telephone
+44 (0) 7572979729

frank@dunfinfarm.com

Price
Price £40.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Nature and Wildlife

A traditional Irish sheep farm experience in County Antrim. Get an insight into sheepdog psychology. Let the sheep know who’s boss. Enjoy an exhilarating outdoor experience. You’ll soon discover if you’ve got what it takes to be a shepherd.

Price
Price £40.00 Per Ticket

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Cavehill Walking Tours

Belfast

Address

Experience and Explore, Belfast Castle, Antrim Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT15 5GR

Telephone
+44(0) 7785 738 861

rodneyferguson@btinternet.com

Type

Type:

Walking Tour

Stone age warriors, ancient kings and quite a few cats. This is a tour packed with surprises. Situated high above Belfast, Cave Hill is visible across the city. Named for the five caves located on the side of the cliffs, it is rich in natural,…

More Info
Belfast Food Tour

Belfast

Address

Taste and Tour NI, Portview Trade Centre, Belfast, County Antrim, BT4 1HE

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9045 7723

hello@tasteandtour.co.uk

Type

Type:

Walking Tour

Discover the real Belfast – one bite at a time. This tour takes you down quiet streets and into hidden corners - “off the eaten track” - to meet inventive locals making world-beating products.

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
9324 reviews
Crumlin Road Gaol Experience

Belfast

Address

53-55 Crumlin Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT14 6ST

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9074 1500

info@crumlinroadgaol.com

Type

Type:

Historical Tours

Experience what life was like behind bars at the notorious Crumlin Road Gaol.

More Info
Sheans Horse Farm

Ballymoney

Address

38 Coolkeeran Road, Armoy, Ballymoney, County Antrim, BT53 8XL

Telephone
+44 (0) 7759 320 434

danny@sheanshorsefarm.com

Type

Type:

Land Adventure

Whether you’re a total beginner or a confident rider, experience the freedom, fun and buzz of horse riding at Sheans Horse Riding and Heritage Centre. Located close to the village of Armoy, adjacent to the Glens of Antrim on the Antrim Coast.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
13 reviews
Lead the Way Tour Experience

Carrickfergus

Address

Marine Highway, Carrickfergus, County Antrim, BT38 7BG

Telephone
+44 (0) 7916 780 474

leadthewaytourcarrickfergus@gmail.com

Price
Price £10.00 Activity

Type

Type:

Sightseeing

Discover what life was like in Carrickfergus during the Second World War (1939-45) on a guided walking tour with Adrian Hack of Lead The Way Tour. Using contemporary photographs and historical artefacts you'll learn how the war affected the everyday…

Price
Price £10.00 Activity

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Parking (free)
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
272 reviews
Seedhead Arts Street Art Walking Tour

Belfast

Address

Commercial Court, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2NB

Telephone
+44 (0) 7843 590 097

info@seedheadarts.com

Type

Type:

Walking Tour

Explore a changing city through its ever-evolving street art. On this gently paced, two-hour guided street art walking tour, you’ll see the incredible street art currently adding to the atmosphere of Belfast city centre. The tour will help you…

More Info
Belfast City Bike Tours and Bike Hire

Belfast

Address

Norm's Bikes, Smithfield Marketplace, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 1JE

Telephone
+44 (0) 7780 496 969

info@belfastcitybiketours.com

Price
Price £30.00 Activity

Type

Type:

Sightseeing

Embark on an exciting three-hour bicycle tour of the city of Belfast, suitable for all group sizes.

Price
Price £30.00 Activity

More Info
Sensorium Experience

Belfast

Address

The National, 62-68 High Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2BE

Telephone
028 9045 7723

hello@tasteandtour.co.uk

Type

Type:

Food & Drink Courses

Learn what kind of taster you are through an exciting and intriguing series of experiments. This experience brings your senses of taste and smell under scrutiny, and you'll enjoy spending a few hours discovering how they form an integral part of how…

More Info
Walking the Edge

Islandmagee

Address

The Gobbins Visitor Centre, 68 Middle Road, Islandmagee, County Antrim, BT40 3SL

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9337 2318

info@thegobbinscliffpath.com

Type

Type:

Sightseeing

Step out and find yourself between earth, sea and sky on the thrilling Gobbins Experience, where nature isn’t content to sit back and be admired. It completely engulfs you: from the all-enveloping Irish Sea winds and the dolphins dancing off the…

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
181 reviews
If Buildings Could Talk Tour

Belfast

Address

Donegall Square North, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 5GB

Telephone
+44 (0) 7714 684 804

barneygribbin@hotmail.com

Type

Type:

Historical Tours

Enjoy an entertaining couple of hours discovering the secrets behind some of the buildings of Belfast, from a man who used to build them.

More Info
Carved at the Castle Experience

Glenarm

Address

Glenarm Castle, 2 Castle Lane, Glenarm, County Antrim, BT44 0BQ

Telephone
+44 (0)7793 199 306

therockstonemasonry@gmail.com

Price
Price £90.00 Activity

Type

Type:

Craft Workshops and courses

Learn an ancient craft and experience first-hand what it's like to work with a material that’s millions of years old.

Price
Price £90.00 Activity

More Info