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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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Curry's Fun Park Portrush

Portrush

Address

16 Eglinton Street, Portrush, County Antrim, BT56 8DX

Type

Type:

Adventure Park / Playground

Curry’s Fun Park Portrush is Northern Ireland’s largest indoor funpark. Famous for its family friendly attractions. From the thrills n' spills of The Cyclone and The Beast, to the traditional ghost train and carousel, no trip to the North Coast is…

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Fortwilliam Golf Club

Belfast

Address

Downview Avenue, Belfast, County Antrim, BT15 4EZ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9037 0770

office@fortwilliamgc.co.uk

Type

Type:

Parkland Golf Course

The location of Fortwilliam Golf Club gives members and visitors the opportunity to enjoy a setting which is scenically second to none.

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Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on site
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.

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Clifton House - Experience the Belfast Poor House Tour

Belfast

Address

Clifton House, 2 North Queen Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT15 1ES

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9099 7022

info@cliftonbelfast.org.uk

Price
Price £9.00 to £10.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Historical Tours

The history of Belfast begins at Clifton House. From the moment you step through our door you will be transported back in time to the Belfast Poorhouse – opened in 1774 – which provided sanctuary to thousands of people, from the young and old, to…

Dates

From:

6 Mar 2025to26 Nov 2025Various Opening Times

Price
Price £9.00 to £10.00 Per Ticket

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Parking & Transport
- On site parking
- Parking (free)
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
27 reviews
Glenarm Marina

Glenarm

Address

Glenarm Marina, Glenarm, County Antrim, BT44 0EA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2884 1285

marina.reception@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Marinas

Glenarm Marina offers 40 fully serviced pontoon berths within the village's historical limestone harbour, which is ideally situated within a day's sail of the Western Isles and Clyde. Visiting vessels welcome.

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Layd Old Church

Cushendall

Address

Layde Road, Cushendall, County Antrim, BT44 0NH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9082 3207

scmenquiries@communities-ni.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Churches & Sacred Sites

Located one mile from Cushendall are the delightful ruins of a 13th century Franciscan foundation. Chief burial place of the MacDonnell's after Bonamargy which has been built at least three times and served as a parish church.

Price
Free

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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.

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Fairhead

Ballycastle

Address

Fairhead car park, Fairhead Road, Ballycastle, County Antrim, BT54 6RD

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Enjoy breath-taking views from the cliff edge

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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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Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on site
Dunseverick Castle

Ballycastle

Address

Causeway Coast and Glens, Ballycastle, County Antrim, BT57 8SY

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7084 8728

downhilldemesne@nationaltrust.org.uk

Type

Type:

Historic Sites, Houses, Castles & Buildings

Dunseverick Castle is situated in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, near the small village of Dunseverick and the Giant's Causeway.

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Rathlin Island Cycle Hire

Rathlin Island

Address

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

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2076 3954

john_jennifer@btinternet.com

Type

Type:

Cycle Hire & Holidays

Cycle Hire to enjoy the freedom of the Island.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
2002 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.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
42 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
Rathlin Walking Tours

Coleraine

Address

33 Wheatfield Gardens, Coleraine, County Londonderry, BT51 3RH

Telephone
+44 (0) 7745 566 924

paul.quinn33@hotmail.co.uk

Type

Type:

Sightseeing

Planning a visit to Rathlin Island? Interested in walking or birdwatching? Why not join Paul Quinn, an experienced walking guide, who can guide you round the beautiful sights and sounds of Rathlin. You can walk for an hour plus or up to a day.

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White Park Bay

Ballintoy

Address

157 Whitepark Road, Ballintoy, County Antrim, BT54 6NH

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

A classic embayment beach of white sands & wild dunes

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
848 reviews
Ballintoy Harbour

Ballintoy

Address

Harbour Road, Ballintoy, County Antrim, BT54 6NA

Telephone
07803 505084

Ballycastle.marina@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Causeway Coastal Route

Ballintoy Harbour can be discovered in the picturesque village of Ballintoy. Known as a ‘raised beach’, it is located alongside the B15 Coast Road, 17 miles north-east of Coleraine and five miles west of Ballycastle.

Price
Free

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Patricia Millar Ceramic Studio

Bushmills

Address

20 Isle Road, Lisnagunogue, Bushmills, County Antrim, BT57 8XR

patriciamillarceramics@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Craft Workshops and Courses

A clay studio minutes from the Giant’s Causeway, Patricia’s work uses local clays and materials to capture the unique colour signature and forms of the Causeway Coast's landscape.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
156 reviews
Knockagh Monument

Greenisland

Address

Monument Road, Greenisland, County Antrim, BT38 8QG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9335 8222

visitorinfo@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Historic Sites, Houses, Castles & Buildings

County Antrim War Memorial erected and dedicated to the fallen from the County of Antrim who fell during the Great World War (1914-1918) and the Second World War (1939-1945), dramatically overlooking Belfast Lough and surrounding countryside.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

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

Bushmills

Address

2 Distillery Road, Bushmills, County Antrim, BT57 8XH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2073 3218

visitors.bushmills@bushmills.com

Type

Type:

Distillery

In 1608, in Bushmills, a legend was born. In that year, King James I granted a very particular licence to this small village, just a few miles inland from Ireland’s rugged north coast. The licence gave Bushmills the right to distil whiskey. Today,…

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
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

This is the city's first working distillery in almost 90 years. Explore the site where Titanic last rested on dry ground, before her maiden voyage. Visitors to Thompson Dock and Pumphouse will clock in, as workers did a century ago, and experience…

Dates

Price
Price £10.00 to £100.00 Per Ticket

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