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: 417

, currently showing 201 to 220.

Sort By A-Z Lowest A-Z Highest

Laganvale Farm

Lisburn

Address

55a Sandy Lane, Lisburn, County Antrim, BT27 5TL

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9460 0116

laganvalefarmplay@hotmail.com

Type

Type:

Open Farm

Laganvale Farm caters for all weather offering a super indoor soft play centre which can also be combined with our outdoor attractions down on the farm! Animals, pedal tractors and go-karts, sandpit fun and outdoor play for a great day out.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Flat Cap Adventurers

Bushmills

Address

5 Castlecat Road, Bushmills, County Antrim, BT57 8QX

Telephone
+44 (0) 7450 220 146

adam@flatcapadventurers.com

Type

Type:

Rally & Off Road 4x4 schools

Flat Cap Adventurers provide 4x4 experiences for anyone to enjoy.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Off site parking
Xplore Outdoors

Coleraine

Address

1 The Salmon Leap, Coleraine, County Londonderry, BT51 3TX

Telephone
+44 (0) 7734 365 321

info@xploreoutdoors.co.uk

Type

Type:

Canoeing & Kayaking

Xplore Outdoors offers visitors the opportunity to sample the delights of the Causeway Coast and Glens coastline and rivers by sit on top kayak.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Belfast City Cemetery

Belfast

Address

511 Falls Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT12 6DE

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9032 3112

cemeteries@belfastcity.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Cemetery / Mausoleum

Complete with bell and cast iron fountains, this Victorian cemetery was opened in 1869 as Belfast's first cross-denominational burial ground.

Price
Free

More Info
Walks at Carnfunnock Country Park

Larne

Address

Carnfunnock Country Park, Coast Road, Larne, County Antrim, BT40 2LH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2826 2471

carnfunnock@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

A whole host of great walks on offer through the picturesque surroundings of Carnfunnock Country Park.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Banana Block

Belfast

Address

Portview Trade Centre, 310 Newtownards Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT4 1HE

info@bananablock.org

Type

Type:

Event Venue

A space for celebrating eccentric histories and creating incredible futures. We have no Bananas but. we have a Record Store, A mushroom Farm, Cheese Makers, A pop up cafe space, a Banana Ring, Banana beer and an incredible line up of local artists…

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs Welcome Inside
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wi-fi available
Discover Ulster-Scots Centre

Belfast

Address

The Corn Exchange, 1-9 Victoria Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 3GA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9023 1113

jpurse@ulsterscotsagency.org.uk

Type

Type:

Cultural Centre

Get a whole different story at the Discover Ulster-Scots Centre, located in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- Parking (charge) - There are several parking options located close to the Discover Ulster-Scots Centre. They include: • St Anne’s Square Car Park • Exchange Street Car Park • Hill Street Car Park • Handy Park Corporation Street Car Park • Handy Park Tomb Street Car Park.
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wi-fi available
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
12 reviews
Greenisland Golf Club

Carrickfergus

Address

156 Upper Road, Greenisland, Carrickfergus, County Antrim, BT38 8RW

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9086 2236

info@greenislandgolfclub.co.uk

Type

Type:

Parkland Golf Course

Greenisland is a challenging 9 hole mature parkland golf course situated under the imposing Knockagh Monument, and offers panoramic views from Carrickfergus to Belfast and across Belfast Lough to County Down.

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on site
Stones and Thrones Game of Thrones® Location Tour

Belfast

Address

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

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9032 1912

info@citytoursbelfast.com

Price
Price £25.00 to £35.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

GoT Guided Tours

The Stones & Thrones tour is a unique day tour of discovery where you can explore the scenic splendor of the seven kingdoms and see where so many of the pivotal Game Of Thrones scenes were shot!

Price
Price £25.00 to £35.00 Per Ticket

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
4 reviews
High Rise

Lisburn

Address

11A Altona Road, Lisburn, County Antrim, BT27 5QB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9263 6195

contact@highriseni.org

Type

Type:

Indoor Activities

High Rise is the perfect venue for family days out with activities for all ages. Clip ‘n Climb offers challenging indoor climbing fun for children age 4+ and adults and there’s also soft play and two interactive sensory rooms. The centre is designed…

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
- On site parking
- Parking (free)
Facilities

Accessibility
- Ramp to main entrance
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
Fairhead Loch Dubh Walk

Ballycastle

Address

Fairhead Car Park, Fairhead Road, Ballycastle, County Antrim, BT54 6RD

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Enjoy breath-taking views from the cliff edge of Fairhead

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1995 reviews
Belfast Botanic Gardens and Palm House

Belfast

Address

College Park, Botanic Avenue, Belfast, County Antrim, BT7 1LP

Telephone
028 9031 4762

parksinfo@belfastcity.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Public Park

First established in 1828, the gardens have been enjoyed as a public park by the people of Belfast since 1895. There is an extensive rose garden and long herbaceous borders and the tree enthusiast can seek out the rare oaks planted in the 1880s.

More Info
Presbyterian Historical Society

Belfast

Address

26 College Green, Belfast, County Antrim, BT7 1LN

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9072 7330

phsilibrarian@pcinet.org

Type

Type:

Ancestry / Tracing Your Routes

History of Presbyterianism in Ireland and its congregations, including congregational, synod and presbytery records, and private papers of ministers and missionaries.

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
90 reviews
Milliken Tours Ireland

Larne

Address

Rose Cottage, 58a Mulloughsandal Road, Larne, County Antrim, BT40 2LY

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2858 3355

seamusmilliken@yahoo.com

Type

Type:

Sightseeing

We are a private, family run business, offering tours along the Causeway Coast and Antrim Glens. All our tours are tailored to suit your needs, and provide good value for money. Our Tour Guides are all so they can guide you to places of interest.

More Info
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
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
Kebble and Kinramer Nature Reserves

Rathlin Island

Address

Rathlin Island, Rathlin Island, County Antrim, BT54 6RT

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7035 9963

nieainfo@daera-ni.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Nature and Wildlife

Rathlin is Northern Ireland’s only inhabited off-shore island and is thought to come from the Irish word ‘Reachlan’ meaning ‘rocky reef’.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Lagan Towpath

Address

Co Down

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

The Lagan Towpath takes the walker along the river and canal system through a variety of wetland, riverside meadows and mixed woodland from Belfast to Lisburn.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Breakwater Studio Rathlin

Rathlin Island

Address

3 Churchquarter, Rathlin Island, County Antrim, BT54 6RT

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2076 3986

ybraithwaite@btinternet.com

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Art Gallery

Breakwater Studio on Rathlin Island is the Studio and Home of Yvonne Braithwaite. She is generally in residence at the Studio all year round and would be pleased to welcome you should you make a visit to Rathlin.

Price
Free

More Info
Glassmaking and Nature - Colours of the Causeway Coastline with Benefield Spencer Glass

Ballintoy, Ballycastle

Address

35 Lagavara Road, 35 Lagavara Road, Ballintoy, Ballycastle, County Antrim, BT54 6NG

Telephone
07751224855

andreaspencerglass@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Craft Workshops and Courses

Glassmaking and Nature - Colours Created by the Causeway Coast - is a hands on glassmaking experience at Benefield Spencer Glass on the Causeway Coast.

More Info