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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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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
79 reviews
Ormeau Park

Belfast

Address

Ormeau Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT7 3GG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9049 1813

parksinfo@belfastcity.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Public Park

Ormeau Park is the oldest municipal park in Belfast, officially opening to the public in 1871. It is still one of the largest parks in Belfast and offers a great mix of horticulture, woodland, flower displays and wildlife.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Ballymoney Town Hall Arts, Museum and Visitor Information

Ballymoney

Address

1 Townhead Street, Ballymoney, County Antrim, BT53 6BE

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2766 0230

visitor.information@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Visitor Centres & Museums

Ballymoney’s Arts, Museum and Visitor Information Centre is well worth a visit. This visually stunning building combines old with new. The Town Hall provides numerous rooms for hire, which can facilitate anything from 4 to 350 delegates.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

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Facilities

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

Establishment Features
- Wifi
The Coastal Zone

8 Bath Road, Portrush

Address

Portrush Coastal Zone, 8 Bath Road, Portrush, County Antrim, BT568AP

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7082 3600

PortrushCoastalZone@doeni.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Nature and Wildlife

Coastal Zone is home to coastal and marine exhibitions. Indoor rock pool with live sea creatures. Discovery pools and tanks, displays and activities give visitors the chance to learn about Northern Ireland’s marine,coastal wildlife and heritage.

Price
Free

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
41 reviews
Ballintoy Boat Tours

Ballintoy

Address

Ballintoy Harbour, Ballintoy, County Antrim, BT54 6LX

Telephone
+44 (0)7886 232 718

ballintoyboattours@hotmail.com

Type

Type:

Boat Tours

Experience North Coast by Sea

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
22 reviews
Carrickfergus Golf Club

Carrickfergus

Address

35 North Road, Carrickfergus, County Antrim, BT38 8LP

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9336 3713

office@carrickfergusgolfclub.co.uk

Type

Type:

Parkland Golf Course

With its imaginative use of water and sand the par of 68 is not matched that easily. The course offers a interesting mix of testing and approachable holes.

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Catering
- Restaurant on site
The Maritime Mile

Belfast

Address

Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 3NG

hello@maritimebelfast.com

Type

Type:

Self-guided tour

Explore Belfast’s historic waterfront. The Maritime Mile is home to some of Belfast's greatest attractions, unique tours and iconic festivals.

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Ballycastle Traditional Music Trail

Ballycastle

Address

Anglers Arms, 12 North Street, Ballycastle, County Antrim, BT54 6BN

Telephone
028 2076 2024

visitor.information@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Guided Tour

Put yourself in the capable hands of two very skilled local trad musicians on a musical journey from the seafront up into the heart of Ballycastle. Visit the pubs where music has been kept alive through generations and at each stop experience live…

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Bakery Demonstrations with The Pantry @ Bramble Hill

Glarryford

Address

Bramble Hill Cottage, 90a Duneoin Road, Glarryford, County Antrim, BT44 9HH

Telephone
+44 (0) 7792 374484

thepantry.bramblehill@btinternet.com

Type

Type:

Food and Drink Experience

Gail at The Pantry @ Bramble Hill offers homely and traditional baking demonstrations either in in her farmhouse kitchen or at your venue. Sharing traditional Irish recipes, excellent tips and providing interesting information about fresh bakes...…

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Trout Tours NI

Larne

Address

23 Cumbrae Heights, Ballycraigy, Larne, County Antrim, BT40 2HQ

Telephone
+44 (0) 7974 854 219

info@trouttoursni.com

Type

Type:

Coarse Fishing

Trout Tours NI are based in the seaport and market town of Larne, County Antrim. We have a passion for trout fishing and aim to provide the best fishing tours available in Northern Ireland.

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Loughareema (The Vanishing Lake)

Ballycastle

Address

Loughareema Road, Ballycastle, County Antrim, BT54 6WL

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2076 2024

visitor.information@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Lake / Reservoir

A lonely and mysterious Moorland Lake, sometimes called the 'Vanishing Lake'.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
2757 reviews
Dunluce Castle

Bushmills

Address

87 Dunluce Road, Bushmills, County Antrim, BT57 8UY

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2073 1938

scmenquiries@communities-ni.gov.uk

Price
Price £6.00 to £18.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Historic Site

Dunluce Castle is located dramatically close to a headland that plunges straight into the sea, along the North County Antrim coast.

Price
Price £6.00 to £18.00 Per Ticket

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Rathlin Trail

Rathlin Island

Address

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

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Coastal walk with splendid land and seascapes. Highlights on this walk include Knockans RSPB Reserve, Kinramer ASSI and Kebble National Nature Reserve

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
28 reviews
Active Adventures NI

Address

Various Locations, County Antrim, BT54 6NA

info@activeadventuresni.com

Type

Type:

Water Sports

Active Adventures NI offer multiple activity options including Kayak sessions/lessons/courses/tours, SUP sessions/lessons/courses/tours, Surfing experiences/camps/lessons and of course our renowned Coasteering Experiences. We can create a bespoke…

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Townland Tours

Belfast

Address

Various Locations, Donegall Square, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 5GS

Telephone
+44 (0) 7511 177 718

rsgray12@icloud.com

Type

Type:

Food Tour

See and experience all that Northern Ireland has to offer with a local Blue Badge Tour Guide from Townland Tours. Wide range of personalised tours available including Belfast, Causeway Coastal route, Randalstown and Gracehill, near Ballymena.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025

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Ballycastle Marina

Ballycastle

Address

14 Bayview Road, Portnagree House Harbour & Marina Visitor Centre, Ballycastle, County Antrim, BT54 6BT

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2076 8525

ballycastle.marina@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Marinas

The superb 74 berth Blue Flag marina is situated within the inner basin of Ballycastle Harbour and provides visiting vessels with sheltered pontoon berthing for vessels up to 20 metres. Blue Flag Award Winner.

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Jenny Bristow Cookery School Experience

Cullybackey

Address

Dromona Lodge, 11 Dromona Road, Cullybackey, County Antrim, BT43 5QL

Telephone
+44 (0) 7867 631 877

jane@jennybristow.com

Type

Type:

Cookery School

Join Jenny for a unique cookery event at her home, nestled in the rolling green countryside outside the village of Cullybackey in County Antrim.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
International House Belfast

Belfast

Address

109-111 University Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT7 1HP

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9033 0700

study@ihbelfast.com

Type

Type:

Cultural Learning Experiences

Northern Ireland's leading English Language centre, offering English language total immersion experiences at all levels. We combine your language experiences with award winning accommodation options and social events and cultural activities.

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
5 reviews
Roots Revealed

Ballymena

Address

46 Knockeen Crescent, Ballymena, County Antrim, BT42 4DQ

Telephone
+44 (0) 7935 315 235

enquiries@rootsrevealed.co.uk

Type

Type:

Ancestry / Tracing Your Routes

Based in County Antrim, Roots Revealed specialises in ancestral research within the nine Counties of Ulster, i.e. Northern Ireland plus Counties Donegal, Monaghan and Cavan, although work can be undertaken throughout the island of Ireland.

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
63 reviews
Patterson's Spade Mill

Templepatrick

Address

751 Antrim Road, Templepatrick, County Antrim, BT39 0AP

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9443 3619

pattersons@nationaltrust.org.uk

Type

Type:

The National Trust

Listen to the hammers, smell the grit, feel the heat and witness the thrill of the only surviving water-driven spade mill in Ireland.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1 reviews
Layde Walk

Glenarm

Address

Glenarm Car Park, The Cloney, Glenarm, County Antrim, BT44 0AB

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

A short walk through the streets of Glenarm village.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)