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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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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1 reviews
Larne Promenade

Larne

Address

Tower Road, Larne, County Antrim, BT40 1AB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9335 8222

visitorinfo@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Nature and Wildlife

Enjoy a lovely walk along a one mile long stretch of Promenade running from Larne Leisure Centre, parallel with the Causeway Coastal route. Pass by Waterloo Bay, view lots of bird life and dramatic scenery or walk to Town Parks and the Coast Road.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

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

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on site
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
81 reviews
Carnlough Bay Boat Tours

Carnlough

Address

58 Harbour Road, Carnlough, County Antrim, BT44 0EU

Telephone
+44 (0) 7720 464 044

curiositytours@outlook.com

Type

Type:

Boat Tours

Memorable, invigorating boat trip in this area of outstanding natural beauty. Passengers have the chance to spot an array of marine life including dolphins, seals, porpoises and various seabirds.

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Hillwalk Ireland

Ballycastle

Address

Glenariff, Ballycastle, Giant's Causeway, Ballycastle, Co Antrim, BT54 6BP

Telephone
+44 +35391763994

info@hillwalktours.com

Type

Type:

Walking Holiday

Self-guided walking tours along the famous North Antrim coastline with spectacular views over the Atlantic Ocean.

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Noreen's Nettlefest Food & Drink Experience

Aghalee

Address

2c Lime Kiln Lane, Aghalee, County Armagh, BT67 0EZ

Telephone
+44 7590 513 702

noreensnettles@btinternet.com

Price
Price £35.00 Activity

Type

Type:

Food & Drink Courses

Passionate about stinging nettles and inspired by her great grandmother Noreen invites you into her countryside home where guests can get into the sting and enjoy a nettlefest of food and drink while learning about the natural remedies of this…

Dates

From:

28 Apr 2025to31 Oct 2025

Price
Price £35.00 Activity

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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.

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Dog Friendly Food Tours Belfast

Belfast

Address

Dirty Onion, 3 Hill Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2LA

Telephone
+44 (0)7400 094 252

woof@dogfriendlytours.co.uk

Type

Type:

Food Tour

Dog Friendly Food Tours are a great day out for dog owners. Tour guests will visit 5 Dog Friendly venues tasting super locally sourced food and drink at each stop. All dogs receive a Dog Friendly Tours bandana, treats and water on tour.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2024to31 Dec 2024Various Opening Times

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Rock Ocean and Mountain

Bushmills

Address

Distillery Court, Bushmills, County Antrim, BT57 8PU

Telephone
+44 (0) 7453315941

info@rockoceanandmountain.co.uk

Type

Type:

Climbing

Rock Ocean And Mountain (ROAM) is a bespoke, eco aware outdoor activity provider based on the breathtaking Causeway Coast.

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Freedive Northern Ireland

Portrush

Address

8 Ballyreagh Road, Portrush, County Antrim, BT56 8LP

Telephone
+44 (0) 7725408980

joy@freedivenorthernireland.com

Type

Type:

Water Sports

Welcome to Freedive NI, Northern Ireland’s first and only freediving and adventure SUP, snorkel and wild swim centre based in Portrush.

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Gobbins Studio Économusée - Audrey Kyle Art

Islandmagee

Address

Gobbins Studio Économusée, 147 Gobbins Road, Islandmagee, County Antrim, BT40 3TX

Telephone
+44 (0) 7712 464 966

audreykyleart@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Craft Workshops and courses

Artist Audrey Kyle works from a converted barn called Gobbins Studio Économusée, nestled on top of the Gobbins Cliffs on a working family farm. She displays her original unique watercolour paintings, cards and prints in her studio/gallery and runs…

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wi-fi available
Antrim Old Courthouse

Antrim

Address

Market Square, Antrim, County Antrim, BT41 4AW

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9442 8331

info@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Historic Sites, Houses, Castles & Buildings

The Old Courthouse is most certainly one of the jewels in Antrim’s crown. Its opening has created a fantastic opportunity to host a range of performing arts events on a year round basis in the new multi-purpose auditorium.

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Facilities

Leisure Facilities
- Wifi
NI Black Taxi Tours

Belfast

Address

Belfast, Co Antrim

Telephone
+44 (0) 7860 793799

info@niblacktaxitours.com

Type

Type:

Self-guided tour

Why not take a tour in one of our reliable and comfortable black taxis, sit back and take in the sights of our beautiful wee country. Whatever your preference we cater for all walks of life should it be the relaxing country side...

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Game of Thrones® & The Causeway Coast

Derry~Londonderry

Address

3B Springtown Industrial Estate, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, BT48 0LY

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 8673 7776

info@jandkcoaches.com

Type

Type:

GoT Guided Tours

This fantastic guided tour from Derry~Londonderry will not only bring to life the locations from the famous TV drama series but will also take you to some of the most stunning locations on the Causeway Coast.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
45 reviews
Slemish Mountain Hike

Broughshane

Address

7 Carnstroan Lane, Broughshane, County Antrim, BT42 4PF

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Steep rocky track

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
153 reviews
Gleno Waterfall

Gleno

Address

Waterfall Road, Gleno, County Antrim, BT40 3LE

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9064 7787

belfast@nationaltrust.org.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

The National Trust

One of our lesser known ‘hidden treasures’, Gleno is a magnificent 30 foot waterfall nestling in The Glens of Antrim and owned by the National Trust.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
- Parking (free)
Presbyterian Historical Society of Ireland

Belfast

Address

Assembly Buildings, Fisherwick Place, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 6DW

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9072 7330

phsilibrarian@pcinet.org

Type

Type:

Ancestry / Tracing your routes

The library and archive of the Presbyterian Historical Society of Ireland is an important resource for the history of Presbyterianism in Ireland and for those with Presbyterian roots.

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North Coast Sailing

Ballycastle

Address

Portnagree House, 14 Bayview Road, Ballycastle, Co Antrim, BT54 6BT

tony@northcoastsailing.co.uk

Type

Type:

Boat Tours

North Coast Sailing offers skippered sailing charters from Northern Ireland's north coast, exploring surrounding waters, taking in some of the best islands and scenery the world has to offer. Your skipper is Tony Dunlop who is an MCA qualified .

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
29 reviews
Whitehead Diamond Jubilee Wood Walk

Whitehead

Address

Slaughterford Road, Whitehead, County Antrim, BT38 9TG

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

A delightful short walk through recently planted woodland

More Info
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,…

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Leisure Facilities
- Wifi
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