Official tourism website for Northern Ireland

Glenarm Castle and Gardens

You are here: Home > Destinations > County Antrim > Activities & Attractions in County Antrim

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.

Plan your trip

Stay
What's On
Things to Do
Food & Drink
Shopping

Things to Do Search

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

What's On Search

Dates

Start Date:

End Date:

Any date in the future

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

Food & Drink Search

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

Shopping Search

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

Number of results: 416

, currently showing 301 to 320.

Sort By A-Z Lowest A-Z Highest

The Salthouse Spa

Ballycastle

Address

39 Dunamallaght Road, Ballycastle, County Antrim, BT54 6PF

Telephone
02820510000

info@thesalthousehotel.com

Type

Type:

Spa and Well-being

Escape from everyday life with treatments that reduce stress and promote well-being at The Salthouse Hotel Spa

More Info
Rathlin Island Roonivoolin Walk

Rathlin Island

Address

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

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Take the route less travelled on Rathlin Island and venture south to the RSPB Roonivoolin Reserve. Amazing views of the coastline can be enjoyed as well as wildlife such as seals, irish hare and curlew.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
22 reviews
Chaffeur Car Services

Carrickfergus

Address

100 Woodburn Road, West Division, Carrickfergus, County Antrim, BT38 9AB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9336 7899

info@chauffeurcarservices.com

Type

Type:

Sightseeing

Belfast City tours of the Titanic centre Peace wall, Queens, Albert clock, Stormont and Carrickfergus Castle. Also indulge yourself in a full 8hr day of the North coast of Antrim and see Giants Causeway, Dunluce Castle, Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge.

More Info
Wallace Park

Lisburn

Address

Lisburn, County Antrim, BT27 4AN

Telephone
028 9244 7300

ParksAndAmenitiesAdmin@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Public Park

The park provides a green oasis in an otherwise urban landscape and is often busy with visiting dog walkers, families, cyclists and workers on a lunchtime stroll.

Price
Free

More Info
St Patrick's Church Belfast

Belfast

Address

199 Donegall Street, Belfast, CountyAntrim, BT1 2FL

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9032 4597

stpatricks@downandconnor.org

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Churches & Sacred Sites

The Gothic Revival St Patrick's was designed by Timonthy Hevey and Mortimer Thomspon and consecrated in 1877. The first Church was built on this site in 1815 and was the second Catholic Church built since the Reformation in the city of Belfast.

Price
Free

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
130 reviews
SUB6 Surf & SUP School

Portrush

Address

Whiterocks Beach, Dunluce Road, Portrush, County Antrim, BT56 8NB

Telephone
+44 (0) 7748257717

carl@sub6life.com

Type

Type:

Surfing

SUB6 incorporates an Online Surf Store, ASI Accredited Surf & Sup school with RLSS lifeguard training all under one company.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Causeway Coast Kayaking

Ballycastle

Address

Ballintoy Harbour, Ballycastle, County Antrim, BT54 6NA

Telephone
+44 (0) 7895 444 237

hello@causewaycoastkayaking.com

Type

Type:

Canoeing & Kayaking

Fully guided tours and experiences of the Causeway Coast by kayak, including twilight/moonlight paddles and a Game of Thrones ® location tour. All beginner friendly.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Street Art Walking Tour

Belfast

Address

Commercial Court, (starting point), Belfast, Antrim, BT1 2NB

Telephone
+44 (0) 7843 590 097

info@seedheadarts.com

Type

Type:

Arts and Culture tours

Belfast is a place where street art has flourished & artists from around the world have come to paint. Devised and led by the local artists this is a two hour, gently paced guide to the ever changing face of street art in the Cathedral Quarter.

More Info
Whitehead Centre

Whitehead

Address

19 Kings Road, Whitehead, County Antrim, BT38 9PT

Telephone
+44 (0)28 9337 8077

wca@whitehead-ni.com

Type

Type:

Visitor Centres & Museums

Whitehead Centre provides a tourism hub for information about what is going on locally and how to make the most of your time in our vibrant and beautiful town. E-bike hire and guided tours available to book.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

More Info
Willow and Lore Heritage Farm Experiences

Newtowncrommelin

Address

15A Craigdunloof Road, Newtowncrommelin, County Antrim, BT43 6RQ

Telephone
+44 (0)7857579710

willowandlore@outlook.com

Type

Type:

Cultural Learning Experiences

We capture the old Irish way of life with hands on experiences of traditional farming activities, learning traditional skills working with natural materials, sharing stories of local heritage & folklore all in an authentic farm setting surrounded by…

Dates

From:

1 Mar 2025to30 Nov 2025Open 09:30 - 16:30

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
The Theatrical History Tour of Belfast

Belfast

Address

The Big Fish, Donegall Quay, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 3NG

Price
Price £20.00 Activity

Type

Type:

Guided Tour

‘The Theatrical History Tour of Belfast,’ is a new, innovative walking tour that sees two actors, a male and a female, lead a one-hour walking tour from The Big Fish to The Soundyard. During this one-hour tour, the actors will perform five…

Price
Price £20.00 Activity

More Info
Ramble with Robert

Ballygally

Address

12 Drumnagreagh Road, Cairncastle, Ballygally, County Antrim, BT40 2RP

Telephone
+44 (0) 7773 731001

rjstewart1@hotmail.co.uk

Type

Type:

Guided Tour

Join Antrim Glens native and trained tour guide Robert Stewart, on a relaxing hike around the hills of the Antrim Glens. Expect fantastic historical insight, local stories and great craic whilst you hike and enjoy the great outdoors.

More Info
Glenariff Forest Park, Rainbow Trail

Glenariff

Address

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

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

This is an optional detour along the very popular Waterfall Walk through Glenariff Forest Park.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Lough Neagh and River Bann Boat Tour with Abhainn Cruises

Toome

Address

33 Loup Road, Toome, County Antrim, BT41 3TW

Telephone
+44 (0) 7845 370231

abhainncruises@btinternet.com

Type

Type:

Boat Tours

Create life-long memories and discover hidden gems during your journey into the heart of Northern Ireland. Our private charter boat tours offer an escape into nature, an adventure off the beaten track, and unique photographic opportunities.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Funky Monkeys - Cityside Centre, Children's Indoor Play Centre

Belfast

Address

Cityside Retail Park, 100 - 150 York Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT11 1WA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9074 4370

cityside@funkymonkeysni.co.uk

Type

Type:

Indoor Play Area

Funky Monkeys Soft Play Café are NI’s leading indoor play centres for children aged eight and under, featuring play frame equipment which has been specifically designed through the recognition that children can learn and develop their minds.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Gobbins Crafts Économusée

Islandmagee

Address

184 Gobbins Road, Islandmagee, County Antrim, BT40 3TX

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9338 2577

heather@gobbinscrafts.com

Type

Type:

Craft Workshops and Courses

Gobbins Crafts Workshop in Islandmagee offers classes in jewellery making. Create a unique piece of silver jewellery to remember your visit to Northern Ireland or to mark an important life event.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
The Milibern

Armoy

Address

28 Altarichard Road, Armoy, County Antrim, BT53 8XT

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

A scenic upland route that takes in the summit of Croaghan.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Heritage Railway Path

Portballintrae

Address

Bushfoot Road, Portballintrae, County Antrim, BT57 8WB

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Coastal walk

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Carnfunnock Biodiversity Walk

Larne

Address

Carnfunnock Country Park, Coast Road, Larne, County Antrim, BT40 2LH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2826 2471

carnfunnock@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

One of a whole host of great walks on offer through the picturesque surroundings of Carnfunnock Country Park.

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
90 reviews
Milliken Tours Ireland

Larne

Address

Rose Cottage, 58a Mulloughsandal Road, Larne, County Antrim, BT40 2LY

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2858 3355

seamusmilliken@yahoo.com

Type

Type:

Sightseeing

We are a private, family run business, offering tours along the Causeway Coast and Antrim Glens. All our tours are tailored to suit your needs, and provide good value for money. Our Tour Guides are all so they can guide you to places of interest.

More Info