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Glenarm Castle and Gardens

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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.

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Number of results: 407

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Moyle Way

Ballycastle

Address

The Diamond, Ballycastle, County Antrim, BT54 6AW

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

A 26 mile walk mostly off road through the glens of Antrim.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
2 reviews
Eagle Divers NI

Antrim

Address

14A Castle Road, Antrim, County Antrim, BT41 4NA

Telephone
+44 (0) 7756 699 880

info@eaglediversni.com

Type

Type:

Diving & SubAqua

Whether it be your first time or you haven't been diving for a few years, we can help. We offer high quality PADI Certified scuba classes from entry-level course through to professional level training.

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Newtownabbey Footgolf

Newtownabbey

Address

10 Cullyburn Road, Newtownabbey, County Antrim, BT36 5BN

play@newtownabbeyfootgolf.com

Type

Type:

Mini Golf and Pitch and Putt

Newtownabbey Footgolf is Northern Ireland’s first 18-hole course, and it provides a good test of footgolf for all standards of player. Whatever you want to do – kick a ball around, test your skills, enjoy the banter with your mates, get outside…

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Hot Milk Forge Économusée

Martinstown

Address

22 Lisnamanny Road, Lisnamanny, Martinstown, County Antrim, BT43 6QH

Telephone
+44 (0)7740 510 008

hotmilkforge@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Craft Workshops and Courses

Hot Milk Forge offers evening and weekend classes in Blacksmithing and Bladesmithing.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI)

Belfast

Address

2 Titanic Boulevard, Titanic Quarter, Belfast, County Antrim, BT3 9HQ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9053 4800

proni@communities-ni.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Ancestry / Tracing Your Routes

PRONI holds an extensive range of private archives and is the main venue for researching family and local history or for discovering the economic, social and political history of Northern Ireland.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Game of Thrones® Afternoon Tea at Ballygally Castle Hotel

Ballygally

Address

274 Coast Road, Ballygally, County Antrim, BT40 2QZ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2858 1066

res@bcg.hastingshotels.com

Type

Type:

GoT Food Tours

Ballygally Castle Hotel is offering a Game of Thrones® Afternoon Tea which will delight fans of the world-renowned show as well as those who love the indulgence of a delicious afternoon tea.

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
20 reviews
Mid-Antrim Museum and Arts Centre at The Braid

Ballymena

Address

The Braid, 1-29 Bridge Street, Ballymena, County Antrim, BT43 5EJ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2563 5077

BraidMuseum@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Visitor Centres & Museums

The Mid-Antrim Museum, offers a fascinating experience for all the family. The museum boasts two large state of the art exhibition galleries.

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
46 reviews
Chaine Memorial Tower

Larne

Address

28 Chaine Memorial Road, Larne, County Antrim, BT40 1AD

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9336 6666

marina.reception@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Tower

This special memorial tower stands tall on the western side of Larne Lough, at the entrance to Larne harbour greeting visitors arriving by sea. It's an accurate replica of an Irish Round Tower and is known affectionately by locals as 'The Pencil.'

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Game of Thrones® Film Locations Tour

Belfast

Address

10 Great Victoria Street, Somerdale Park, Belfast, County Antrim, BT14 7HD

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9032 1321

info@citysightseeingbelfast.com

Type

Type:

GoT Guided Tours

Book your group on-board our coach to the 'Kings Road' and join us for a day visiting the main filming locations featured in this phenomenal series.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
9 reviews
Hound of Ulster Tours

Belfast

Address

39 Lagmore Glen, Dunmurry, Belfast, County Antrim, BT17 0UZ

Telephone
+44 (0) 7513 355 206

info@houndofulstertours.com

Type

Type:

Guided Tour

Discover the real Ireland with Hound of Ulster Tours.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
90 reviews
The People’s Park

Ballymena

Address

Doury Road, Ballymena, County Antrim, BT43 6JA

Telephone
+44 (0) 300 124 5000

Parks@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Public Park

45-acre urban park in the heart of Ballymena with something to do for all the family - you can check out the lake full of ducks, modern playground, urban art, sports facilities, delightful flowers and onsite community initiatives.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Rea's Wood

Antrim

Address

72 Lough Road, Antrim, County Antrim, BT41 4DQ

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Reas Wood extends along part of the shore of Lough Neagh. It is a great example of a wet woodland and has a rich diversity of wildlife to see. Keep dogs on leads. The path will eventually form part of the Lough Neagh Cycle Way.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Cushendun

Cushendun

Address

Cushendun Car Park, Cushendun, County Antrim, BT44 0PS

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Cushendun is a beautiful seaside village on the North Coast alive with small shops and pubs. A series of scenic paths wind through the village, beach front, harbour, and Glendun river.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Crumlin Glen

Crumlin

Address

Mill Road, Crumlin, County Antrim, BT29 4AA

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Rising to the east on the slopes of Divis Mountain, the Crumlin River has carved a short but deep glen here as it approaches the waters of Lough Neagh.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Royal Portrush Golf Club

Portrush

Address

Dunluce Road, Portrush, County Antrim, BT56 8JQ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7082 2311

info@royalportrushgolfclub.com

Type

Type:

Links Golf Course

Founded in 1888, the legendary Royal Portrush Golf Club has two Championship Courses - the renowned Dunluce Course and the smaller, but equally enjoyable Valley Course. Proud Hosts of The 148th Open in 2019.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on site
St Patrick's Church Belfast

Belfast

Address

199 Donegall Street, Belfast, CountyAntrim, BT1 2FL

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9032 4597

stpatricks@downandconnor.org

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Churches & Sacred Sites

The Gothic Revival St Patrick's was designed by Timonthy Hevey and Mortimer Thomspon and consecrated in 1877. The first Church was built on this site in 1815 and was the second Catholic Church built since the Reformation in the city of Belfast.

Price
Free

More Info
George Best Trail

Belfast

Address

Avalon House, 278-280 Newtownards Road, Belfast, Co Antrim, BT4 1HE

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9045 1900

visitorcentre@eastsidepartnership.com

Type

Type:

Self-guided tour

The George Best Trail guides you through the football legend’s humble beginnings in east Belfast. It will guide you to places of interest including his family home, the local playing fields and his favourite east Belfast haunts.

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Loughshore Trail

Newtownabbey

Address

Hazelbank Park, Shore Road, Newtownabbey, County Antrim, BT37 9JQ

Telephone
0300 123 4568

Info@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Set off along the shores of Belfast Lough and enjoy the sea air as you navigate the picturesque walking route which takes you all the way to Hazelbank, Gideons Green and even into Belfast.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking - Whiteabbey Green Car Park: Open 24 hours Hazelbank Park: Summer: May to September, 06:00 -23:00 Winter: October to April 06:00 - 20:00
Winterfell Trek from Belfast

Belfast

Address

Pickup from Leonardo Hotel, Great Victoria Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 6DY

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9568 0023

info@gameofthronestours.com

Price
Price £45.00 to £49.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

GoT Guided Tours

Morning trek at Old Castle Ward aka Winterfell and to Audley’s Castle aka Walder Frey’s Twins. Inch Abbey, where Robb became King in the North. Afternoon trek in Tollymore Forest to the wildling pit and where the Starks found the direwolf pups.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025

Price
Price £45.00 to £49.00 Per Ticket

More Info
Titanic Trail

Belfast

Address

Titanic Memorial Garden, City Hall, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 5GS

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Discover Belfast’s links to its unique Titanic and maritime heritage following this trail from the Titanic Memorial Garden at Belfast City Hall to Titanic Quarter.

More Info