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: 407

, currently showing 61 to 80.

Sort By A-Z Lowest A-Z Highest

Funky Monkeys - Kennedy Centre, Children's Indoor Play Centre

Belfast

Address

Unit 57 Kennedy Centre, 580 Falls Road, Belfast, Co Antrim, BT11 9AE

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9061 2292

kennedycentre@funkymonkeys.ie

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
Dunluce Lodge Spa

Portrush

Address

Dunluce Road, Portrush, County Antrim, BT56 8NB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7053 1700

spa@dunlucelodge.com

Type

Type:

Spa and Well-being

Nestled within our serene hotel on Northern Ireland’s breath-taking Causeway Coast, Dunluce Lodge Spa offers a tranquil escape inspired by the rhythm of the sea and the beauty of the landscape. Whether you're unwinding after a day of coastal…
Special Offers
- Thoughtfully Crafted Spa Experience
  From £355
  Indulge in a thoughtfully crafted spa package at Dunluce Lodge this autumn which includes an overnight stay in one of their lavishly-appointed suites and breakfast the following morning. Luxuriate with a personalised spa experience including a 10 minute consultation to tailor your treatment to your needs, a 60 minute bespoke treatment with a fully trained therapist and a 10 minute post-treatment guided meditation. Excludes Saturday nights and holiday dates.
  Book Now
  More offers like this - Experiences & Attractions
Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Open 09:30 - 18:30
More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Laganvale Farm

Lisburn

Address

55a Sandy Lane, Lisburn, County Antrim, BT27 5TL

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9460 0116

laganvalefarmplay@hotmail.com

Type

Type:

Open Farm

Laganvale Farm caters for all weather offering a super indoor soft play centre which can also be combined with our outdoor attractions down on the farm! Animals, pedal tractors and go-karts, sandpit fun and outdoor play for a great day out.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Swifts Forge Leather Making Class

Whitehead

Address

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

Telephone
+44 (0) 78280 07579

info@swiftsforge.com

Type

Type:

Craft Workshops and Courses

Come along to Whitehead’s charming Victorian workshop for intimate leather-making and blacksmithing classes, where expert artisans guide you in crafting wallets, bags and unique golf accessories in a hands-on setting.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025

More Info
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wi-fi available
Bakery Demonstrations with The Pantry @ Bramble Hill

Glarryford

Address

Bramble Hill Cottage, 90a Duneoin Road, Glarryford, County Antrim, BT44 9HH

Telephone
+44 (0) 7792 374484

thepantry.bramblehill@btinternet.com

Type

Type:

Food and Drink Experience

Gail at The Pantry @ Bramble Hill offers homely and traditional baking demonstrations either in in her farmhouse kitchen or at your venue. Sharing traditional Irish recipes, excellent tips and providing interesting information about fresh bakes...…

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Fairhead Loch Na Crannóige 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 of Fairhead

More Info
Ballycastle Golf Club

Ballycastle

Address

2 Cushendall Road, Ballycastle, County Antrim, BT54 6QP

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2076 2536

info@ballycastlegolfclub.com

Type

Type:

Links Golf Course

Situated in an 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty' on the North Antrim Coast of Northern Ireland and only 20 minutes from the famous Royal Portrush Championship Links this is a course that should be included in every golfers trip. Bring your camera.

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on site
Museum at The Mill

Newtownabbey

Address

Mossley Mill Civic Centre, Carnmoney Road North, Newtownabbey, County Antrim, BT36 5QA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9034 0129

Type

Type:

Industrial Heritage

Museum at The Mill invites visitors of all ages to explore the history and heritage of Mossley Mill, a flax spinning mill in County Antrim which dates back to the early 1800s.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
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.

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on site
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
32 reviews
Gracehill Moravian Settlement

Gracehill

Address

The Old School House, 19A Church Road, Gracehill, County Antrim, BT42 2NL

Telephone
+44 (0) 7903 739933

gracehilltours@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Historic Sites, Houses, Castles & Buildings

Gracehill, an 18th-century Moravian settlement near Ballymena, is Northern Ireland's first UNESCO Cultural World Heritage site. Visitors can explore its preserved Georgian architecture, historic sites, and book guided tours.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
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
Kinbane Castle

Ballycastle

Address

Ballycastle, off Whitepark Road, Ballycastle, County Antrim, BT54 6LP

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9082 3207

scmenquiries@communities-ni.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Castle / Fort

Kinbane Castle is a Historic Monument sited in the townland of Cregganboy, located along the Causeway Coastal Route. The area surrounding it offers spectacular views of Rathlin Island and Dunagregor Iron Age fort.

Price
Free

More Info
Castles & Stones Day Tour

Larne

Address

1b Nixon Building, LEDCOM, Larne, County Antrim, BT40 3AW

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2858 0385

bookings@condorexecutive.com

Type

Type:

Sightseeing

Discover our unique history, myths and personality on a day spent exploring unforgettable places in the company of local people. See it all through our eyes as a local storyteller recounts the legends that grew from this place and shaped its people.

More Info
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

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Belfast City Cemetery

Belfast

Address

511 Falls Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT12 6DE

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9032 3112

cemeteries@belfastcity.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Cemetery / Mausoleum

Complete with bell and cast iron fountains, this Victorian cemetery was opened in 1869 as Belfast's first cross-denominational burial ground.

Price
Free

More Info
Castlecat Studio Gallery

Bushmills

Address

76 Castlecat Road, Bushmills, County Antrim, BT57 8TW

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2074 1682

jamesmcnulty48@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Art Gallery

Castlecat Studio Gallery is based in a small, tastefully converted stable of a former farmhouse in the hamlet of Castlecat, near Bushmills.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
North Antrim Cliff Path - Dunseverick to Giant’s Causeway

Dunseverick

Address

Dunseverick Castle Car Park, 170 Causeway Road, Dunseverick, County Antrim, BT57 8SY

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Dramatic cliff headlands & views, secluded bays, castle ruins

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Jenny Bristow Cookery School Experience

Cullybackey

Address

Dromona Lodge, 11 Dromona Road, Cullybackey, County Antrim, BT43 5QL

Telephone
+44 (0) 7867 631 877

jane@jennybristow.com

Type

Type:

Cookery School

Join Jenny for a unique cookery event at her home, nestled in the rolling green countryside outside the village of Cullybackey in County Antrim.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
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
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

Establishment Features
- Wifi