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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: 406

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
54 reviews
Sentry Hill Historic House & Visitor Centre

Newtownabbey

Address

40 Ballycraigy Road, Newtownabbey, County Antrim, BT36 4SX

Telephone
0300 123 7788

culture@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Visitor Centres & Museums

Sentry Hill is a 19th century farmhouse in the Parish of Carnmoney, County Antrim. The house and its contents provide a rare insight into life in rural Ulster during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
68 reviews
Ballygally Beach

Ballygally

Address

Coast Road, Ballygally, County Antrim, BT40 2QZ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9335 8232

Parks@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Beach

Escape to Ballygally Beach, just 10km north of Larne on the Causeway Coastal Route. Enjoy a scenic walk, fun sandcastle building, or a refreshing swim at this family-friendly seaside destination.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
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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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
104 reviews
Whitehead Railway Museum

Whitehead

Address

Excursion Station, Castleview Road, Whitehead, County Antrim, BT38 9NA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9358 6200

info@steamtrainsireland.com

Type

Type:

Visitor Centres & Museums

Whitehead Railway Museum will take visitors on a journey through time - see the large stock fully restored heritage Irish railway steam and diesel locomotives, vintage carriages coupled with state of the art interactive touch displays.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Polished Jewels & Cultural Guinness

Belfast

Address

34 Strathmore Park North, Belfast, County Antrim, BT15 5HR

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9050 6961

contact@diamondchauffersireland.com

Type

Type:

Sightseeing

Our knowledgeable and friendly chauffeurs will be thrilled to introduce you to the Emerald Isle, through our Private Tours in Northern Ireland.

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Gary Bell Fly Fishing

Lisburn

Address

5 Knockagh Road, Lisburn, County Antrim, BT28 1UR

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9209 0878

gary@gbflyfish.com

Type

Type:

Coarse Fishing

Gary Bell from county Antrim is a professional casting instructor and guide with over 30 years of fly fishing and fly tying experience.

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Naughton Gallery at Queen's

Belfast

Address

Lanyon Building, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, County Antrim, BT7 1NN

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9097 3580

art@qub.ac.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Art Gallery

The Naughton Gallery, located in the historic Lanyon Building at Queen’s University, is an award winning registered museum displaying works from the University’s own collection, touring exhibitions and shows by local and international artists.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
George Best Trail

Belfast

Address

Avalon House, 278-280 Newtownards Road, Belfast, Co Antrim, BT4 1HE

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9045 1900

visitorcentre@eastsidepartnership.com

Type

Type:

Self-guided tour

The George Best Trail guides you through the football legend’s humble beginnings in east Belfast. It will guide you to places of interest including his family home, the local playing fields and his favourite east Belfast haunts.

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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

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
352 reviews
Ballycastle Beach

Ballycastle

Address

Carrickmore Road, Ballycastle, County Antrim, BT54 6QS

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2076 2024

visitor.information@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Beach

Ballycastle Beach offers stunning views of Rathlin Island and Fairhead and is approximately 1.2 kilometres in length.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Clifftop Experience (Away A Wee Walk)

Bushmills

Address

Away A Wee Walk, Bushmills, County Antrim, BT57 8SU

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2073 1855

eimear@awayaweewalk.com

Price
Price £52.00 Activity

Type

Type:

Sightseeing

The Clifftop Experience (in partnership with National Trust) is a guided 5 mile hike of the full UNESCO coastline at the Giant's Causeway available daily throughout the season. It is our 'signature tour'.

Price
Price £52.00 Activity

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Alastair Donaghy Walks & Talks NI

Ballymena

Address

20 Brigadie Avenue, Ballymena, County Antrim, BT43 7ER

Telephone
+44 (0) 7392 597078

alastairdonaghytours@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Guided Tour

Join Alastair Donaghy’s immersive Ballymena walking tours—rich in history, storytelling, and local insight. Discover themed trails, bespoke experiences, and vibrant heritage with a passionate, knowledgeable native guide. Bespoke group tours and…

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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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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
40 reviews
Portmuck Walk

Islandmagee

Address

Portmuck Harbour, 68 Portmuck Road, Islandmagee, County Antrim, BT40 3TP

visitorinfo@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Tranquil harbour and dramatic coastal walk

More Info
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
166 reviews
RSPB Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre

Rathlin Island

Address

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

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2076 0062

rspb.nireland@rspb.org.uk

Type

Type:

Visitor Centres & Museums

Just six miles off County Antrim's north coast with must see views of Northern Ireland's largest seabird colony and a chance to explore Rathlin's unique 'upside down' lighthouse part of the Great Lighthouses of Ireland Trail.

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Conway Mill

Belfast

Address

5-7 Conway Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT13 2DE

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9032 9646

info@conwaymill.org

Type

Type:

Industrial Heritage

The Mill was originally built around 1842, and was one of the first linen spinning mills to be established on the Lower Falls Road.

More Info
Facilities

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

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Touring Around Belfast

Belfast

Address

Belfast, County Antrim, BT15 4FY

Telephone
+44 (0) 7798 602 401

billy@touringaroundbelfast.com

Price
Price £20.00 to £50.00 Activity

Type

Type:

Taxi Tours

Try this for an interesting tour of Belfast city, which takes place in a black cab, and it's your driver who brings the story of the city to life, combining the history and character of the place with the personal experience of people who have lived…

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Open 09:00 - 17:00

Price
Price £20.00 to £50.00 Activity

More Info
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

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Wee Toast Tours

Belfast

Address

Spencer House, 65-67 Royal Avenue, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 1FE

Telephone
+44 (0)28 9593 1763

info@weetoasttours.com

Type

Type:

Sightseeing

Travel in style and experience the Belfast landmarks in a completely different way. Raise a toast with your companions as you travel. Cycle to our locals for a pint and experience our world famous pubs.

More Info