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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: 408

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
129 reviews
Antrim Lough Shore Park

Antrim

Address

Lough Road, Antrim, County Antrim, BT41 4DG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9442 8331

info@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Public Park

Situated on the shores of Lough Neagh, the Lough Shore Park in Antrim is a popular destination for visitors and residents at all times of the year. It is an area steeped in history and natural beauty with many attractions and activities to enjoy.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
489 reviews
Cave Hill Country Park

Belfast

Address

Antrim Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT15 5GR

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9031 9629

parksinfo@belfastcity.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Country / Royal Park

Cave Hill Country Park gets its name from five caves, which could be early iron mines, located on the side of the main Belfast cliffs. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views across Belfast from vantage points on the hillside.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Parking (free)
Titanic Distillers at Thompson Dock

Belfast

Address

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

Telephone
02890 992992

bookings@titanicdistillers.com

Price
Price £10.00 to £100.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Brewery/Distillery Tour

Titanic Distillers is Belfast's first whiskey distillery in almost 90 years, located in the Titanic Pumphouse. Visitors can enjoy unique experiences, including our history whilst learning about Belfast's whiskey tradition, and tasting Irish spirits.

Price
Price £10.00 to £100.00 Per Ticket

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Belfast Music Bus Tour

Belfast

Address

Oh Yeah Music Centre, 15-21 Gordon Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2LG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9031 0845

hannah@ohyeahbelfast.com

Type

Type:

Arts and Culture tours

Experience Belfast's vibrant music scene with the Belfast Music Bus Tour, celebrating its UNESCO City of Music status.

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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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Crescent Arts Centre

Belfast

Address

2-4 University Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT7 1NH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9024 2338

info@crescentarts.org

Type

Type:

Craft Workshops and Courses

The Crescent is a diverse community arts centre which has served the population of Belfast and beyond with a wide range of arts and cultural activities for almost 30 years.

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Glenariff Forest Park, Viewpoint Trail

Glenariff

Address

Glenariff Forest Park, 98 Glenariffe Road, Glenariff, County Antrim, BT44 0QX

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

A short circular walk through woodland and stunning gardens offering spectacular views.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Museum at The Mill

Newtownabbey

Address

Mossley Mill Civic Centre, Carnmoney Road North, Newtownabbey, County Antrim, BT36 5QA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9034 0129

Type

Type:

Industrial Heritage

Museum at The Mill invites visitors of all ages to explore the history and heritage of Mossley Mill, a flax spinning mill in County Antrim which dates back to the early 1800s.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
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.

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Harland & Wolff Cranes - Samson and Goliath

Belfast

Address

Queen's Island, Belfast, County Antrim, BT3 9DU

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Industrial Heritage

Although not officially classed as wonders of the world, the two massive cranes in Harland and Wolff Belfast, which serve one of the world’s largest Building Docks, are certainly masterpieces of engineering.

Price
Free

More Info
Aberdelghy Golf Course

Lambeg

Address

1 Bell's Lane, Lambeg, Antrim, BT27 4QH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9266 2738

aberdelghy@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Parkland Golf Course

An attractive 18 hole parkland Course situated minutes from Lisburn City Centre.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025

More Info
Ballance House

Glenavy

Address

118A Lisburn Road, Glenavy, County Antrim, BT29 4NY

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9264 8492

info@theballancehouse.com

Type

Type:

Visitor Centres & Museums

The Ballance House farm museum, run by The Ulster New Zealand Trust, is the restored birthplace of John Ballance, Prime Minister of New Zealand 1891-1893.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
- On site parking
- Parking (free)
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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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
Ballymoney Heritage Trail

Ballymoney

Address

Townhead Street Car Park, Ballymoney, County Antrim, BT53 6BE

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Ballymoney Heritage Guide Trail features a self-guided walking tour of the finest built heritage within Ballymoney Market Town where you can discover more about the people and places from the past.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Greenacres Golf Centre

Ballyclare

Address

155 Ballyrobert Road, Ballyclare, County Antrim, BT39 9RT

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9335 4111

info@greenacresgolfcentre.co.uk

Type

Type:

Parkland Golf Course

A challenging 18 hole par 70 parkland course designed to fit in with the natural rolling countryside of County Antrim. Its proximity to Belfast also makes it an ideal stop for a round of golf. Also a par 3 course,driving range and 18 hole mini golf.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on site
The Courthouse Creative Hub

Bushmills

Address

75 Main Street, Coleraine, Bushmills, Antrim, BT57 8QB

Telephone
+44 (0)28 2073 2606

info@thecourthousebushmills.com

Type

Type:

Event Venue

Located in the heart of historic Bushmills, the former Petty Sessions Court, dating back to 1834, has been sensitively restored as a modern creative shared space for local crafters, creatives artists, chefs, artisan producers guides and storytellers.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

More Info
Belfast Bikes: Public Cycle Hire

Belfast

Address

Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 5GS

Telephone
+44 (0) 343 3571551

belfastbikes@nsl.co.uk

Type

Type:

Cycle Hire & Holidays

The Frank and Honest Belfast Bikes scheme is an exciting way to link up the city. There are over 50 docking stations located throughout the city centre which offer residents and visitors to Belfast a new low cost and convenient way to get around.

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)
Rathlin Kinramer North Walk

Rathlin Island

Address

Rathlin Island, Rathlin Island, County Antrim, BT54 6SB

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

A waymarked route through Kebble Nature Reserve, taking in the north of the island with stunning views of dramatic sea cliffs and of Scotland beyond.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)