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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: 417

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Albert Memorial Clock

Belfast

Address

17 Queens Square, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 3FF

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9024 6609

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Historic Sites, Houses, Castles & Buildings

Designed by the architect William J Barre, the figure of Prince Albert was sculpted by Samuel Ferris Lynn and the clock is by Francis Moore.

Price
Free

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.

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Portmore Lough

Craigavon

Address

Craigavon, Co Armagh

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

A delightful location for nature watching and a short walk

More Info
Slievenacloy - Stoneyford River

Belfast

Address

Belfast, County Antrim, BT28 3TE

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Hill walk in wildflower meadow

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Slievenacloy - Priest's Hill

Belfast

Address

Belfast, County Antrim, BT28 3TE

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Short hill walk, amazing views

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
The Belfast Barge

Belfast

Address

1 Lanyon Place, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 3LG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9023 2555

info@belfastbarge.co.uk

Type

Type:

Visitor Centres & Museums

Belfast’s first floating visitor attraction, moored on the River Lagan, just minutes from the city centre, houses a vibrant interactive museum on Belfast's proud maritime history.

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
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.

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Sallagh Braes Walk

Ballygally

Address

Linford Car Park, Feystown Road, Ballygally, County Antrim, BT40 2LZ

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

A stunning short walk across exposed hillside, leading to and along the edge of the dramatic Sallagh Braes basalt cliffs. The Sallagh Braes is a prominent basalt scarp with a spectacular ballast amphitheatre located 3 miles west of Ballygally, close…

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Slievenacloy Nature Reserve

Lisburn

Address

Flowbog Road, Lisburn, County Antrim, BT28 3TE

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 4483 0282

info@ulsterwildlife.org

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Nature and Wildlife

Slievenacloy is a vast wildlife paradise of grassland, meadows, rush and heath. It is particularly important for orchids, birds and fungi and offers panoramic views from the Mournes to the Sperrins and beyond. The site is managed by Ulster Wildlife.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs Welcome Inside - must be on a lead
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
129 reviews
Blackhead Coastal Path Walk

Whitehead

Address

Blackhead Car Park, Old Castle Road, Whitehead, County Antrim, BT38 9NE

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9335 8222

visitorinfo@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Walking Route - Short (<5 miles)

A short and delightful circular walk from the picturesque seaside town of Whitehead, around the coastal path to Blackhead with its iconic lighthouse, the most easterly point of County Antrim, then back to Whitehead for refreshments and shopping.

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Margey & Bjourson Art Studio & Gallery

Portrush

Address

99 Mark Street, Portrush, County Antrim, BT56 8BU

Telephone
+44 (0) 7841 593 762

adrianmargey@googlemail.com

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Art Gallery

Visitors to the area can explore this unique studio & gallery space featuring the work of artists Adrian Margey and Evana Bjourson. Open to the public each Saturday throughout the year. Extended opening hours operate during the summer season.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
East Strand Beach

Portrush

Address

Portrush, County Antrim, BT56 8AF

Telephone
+44 (0) 282076 2024

visitor.information@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Beach

East Strand Beach in Portrush is a famously golden sandy beach, with views of The Skerries and Causeway headlands. This is a popular destination for groups of families and friends, with lots of great seaside facilities to enjoy.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
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
WildWalk Bushcraft

Ballyclare

Address

The Burn Road, Doagh, Ballyclare, County Antrim, BT39 0RE

Telephone
+44 (0) 7980 656 291

Wildwalkbushcraft@gmail.com

Price
Price £95.00 Course

Type

Type:

Craft Workshops and Courses

At WildWalk we offer everyone a chance to connect to the outdoors. We offer a variety of bushcraft and wilderness, survival and living activities, such as outdoor foraging, campfire cooking, shelter building and wildlife tracking. Learn new skills…

Price
Price £95.00 Course

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
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
Gracehill Golf Club

Ballymoney

Address

141 Ballinlea Road, Stranocum, Ballymoney, County Antrim, BT53 8PX

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2075 1209

william@gracehillgolfclub.com

Type

Type:

Parkland Golf Course

Gracehill Golf Course is a pristine 18 hole golf course within the Dark Hedges Estate. Surrounded by ancient woodland and dotted with a variety of lakes and ponds, this American-style course was designed by Frank Ainsworth.

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
Midtown Makers Studio Craft Workshops

Ballymena

Address

51 - 53 Church Street, Ballymena, County Antrim, BT43 6DD

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2568 9430

jim@ballymenabusiness.co.uk

Type

Type:

Craft Workshops and Courses

Midtown Makers Studio and Shop, is one of Northern Ireland's foremost handmade craft and gift shops, located on Church Street in Ballymena offering regular crafting experiences and workshops with skilled local crafters.

More Info
Lagan Valley LeisurePlex

Lisburn

Address

18 Lisburn Leisure Park, Governors Road, Lisburn, County Antrim, BT28 1LP

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9267 2121

leisureplex@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Sport/Leisure Centre

Based in the heart of Lisburn City, the LeisurePlex boasts the largest leisure pool in Northern Ireland.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
7 reviews
Larne Town Parks

Larne

Address

Glenarm Road, Larne, County Antrim, BT40 1DY

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9335 8232

parks@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Public Park

Town Park and Chaine Park are delightful parks located on the Causeway Coastal route in Larne offering dramatic coastal views out to Scotland, pleasurable walks, unique heritage features and entertainment for all the family.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking