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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: 445

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Belfast Exposed

Belfast

Address

23 Donegall Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2FF

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9023 0965

info@belfastexposed.org

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Art Gallery

Born from engagement with the community, Belfast Exposed houses contemporary photography galleries, bookshop, and archive with some of the most iconic images taken during the Troubles.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
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)
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1027 reviews
Carrickfergus Castle

Carrickfergus

Address

Marine Highway, Carrickfergus, County Antrim, BT38 7BG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9335 1273

carrickfergus.castle@communities-ni.gov.uk

Price
Price £6.00 to £18.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Castle / Fort

For more than 800 years, Carrickfergus Castle has been an imposing monument on the Northern Irish landscape whether approached by land, sea or air. The castle now houses historical displays as well as cannons from the 17th to the 19th centuries.

Price
Price £6.00 to £18.00 Per Ticket

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Victoria Park

Address

Co Down

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Oasis for wildlife in Belfast

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
22 reviews
Carnlough Harbour

Carnlough

Address

Harbour Road, Carnlough, County Antrim, BT44 0EU

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2884 1285

GlenarmMarina@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Historic Sites, Houses, Castles & Buildings

Carnlough's sheltered historic harbour, with small fishing boats, is the focal point of this picturesque village, located on the Causeway Coastal Route. It's a well known Game of Thrones® film location, recognisable as the Free City of Braavos Canal.

Price
Free

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Iron Islands & Giant's Causeway from Belfast

Belfast

Address

Pickup from Leonardo Hotel, Great Victoria Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 6DY

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9568 0023

belfast@gameofthronestours.com

Price
Price £45.00 to £49.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

GoT Guided Tours

Visit Cushendun Caves where Melisandre gave birth to a shadow assassin, the Iron Islands beach where Theon and Euron Greyjoy were born again in the ‘Drowned God’, Dragonstone beach, the Giant’s Causeway and the Dark Hedges.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2024to31 Dec 2024

Price
Price £45.00 to £49.00 Per Ticket

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
486 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

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Parking (free)
Ulster Walking Tours

Antrim

Address

60 Springfarm Road, Antrim, County Antrim, BT41 4JH

Telephone
07842809873

stmccracken@hotmail.com

Type

Type:

Walking Tour

We offer scheduled and bespoke walking tours for all, experience the North Coast or closer to home on the Mary Ann McCracken Radical Belfast walking tour or indeed one of our cemetery tours. We cater for all needs and can facilitate a tour of…

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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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Nutts Corner Circuit

Crumlin

Address

11 Dundrod Road, Crumlin, Countt Antrim, BT29 4SR

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9082 5301

info@nuttscornercircuit.com

Type

Type:

Motor Sports and Karting

Nutts Corner Circuit, located 15 minutes from Belfast City Centre, provides the ultimate karting and motor sport experience in Northern Ireland. Our Sodi GT5 karts fitted with Honda 2700cc engines will take you up to 55mph around our 1.14km track!

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Fairhead Casán an Loch Walk

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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Belfast Cookery School

Belfast

Address

53-54 Castle Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 1GH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9023 4772

info@belfastcookeryschool.com

Type

Type:

Cookery School

The School is dedicated to helping those who want to share our passion and learn more about food and the way it should be prepared.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
987 reviews
Experience Belfast

Donegall Square

Address

Belfast City Hall, Donegall Square, County Antrim, BT1 5GS

Telephone
+44 (0) 7771 640 746

info@experiencebelfast.com

Type

Type:

Walking Tour

We're qualified objective guides and authors and historians. We know Belfast and can cover all bases. Whether it’s a walking tour, a private tour around Belfast or a group tour on a coach, you’re guaranteed a wonderful experience that’s engaging…

Dates

From:

1 Oct 2024to30 Apr 2025Various Opening Times

From:

1 May 2025to30 Sept 2025Open 10:00 - 12:30

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Divis and the Black Mountain

Belfast

Address

12 Hannahstown Road, Belfast, Co Antrim, BT17 0NG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9082 5434

Type

Type:

Walking Route - Medium (5-20 miles)

With spectacular panoramic views over Belfast, Divis and the Black Mountain is a haven for those seeking the wild countryside experience. On a clear day there are views of Strangford Lough, the Mournes and the Sperrins, as well as Scotland...

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
2 reviews
Eagle Divers NI

Antrim

Address

14A Castle Road, Antrim, County Antrim, BT41 4NA

Telephone
+44 (0) 7756 699 880

info@eaglediversni.com

Type

Type:

Diving & SubAqua

Whether it be your first time or you haven't been diving for a few years, we can help. We offer high quality PADI Certified scuba classes from entry-level course through to professional level training.

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Newtownabbey Footgolf

Newtownabbey

Address

10 Cullyburn Road, Newtownabbey, County Antrim, BT36 5BN

play@newtownabbeyfootgolf.com

Type

Type:

Mini Golf and Pitch and Putt

Newtownabbey Footgolf is Northern Ireland’s first 18-hole course, and it provides a good test of footgolf for all standards of player. Whatever you want to do – kick a ball around, test your skills, enjoy the banter with your mates, get outside…

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Ulster Historical Foundation

Newtownards

Address

Ulster Historical Foundation, Bradley Thallon House, Unit 44D, Newtownards, County Down, BT23 4TJ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9181 2073

enquiry@uhf.org.uk

Type

Type:

Ancestry / Tracing your routes

The Ulster Historical Foundation, est. 1956, is a not-for-profit educational charity. Learn about the history of Ulster and your ancestors' lives and migration experiences first-hand through talks and tours to some of Ulster's most historic sites.

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
Galgorm Castle Golf Club

Ballymena

Address

200 Galgorm Road, Ballymena, County Antrim, BT42 1HL

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2564 6161

golf@galgormcastle.com

Type

Type:

Golf Resort

Galgorm Castle Golf Club is an exciting mixture of the new and the old. This 18 hole, 6930 yards par 72 championship course is set in 220 acres of beautiful, mature parkland located in the heart of County Antrim.

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Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on site
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)