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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: 417

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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
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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Kartsport Karting & Activity Centre

Ballymoney

Address

Unit 11 Ballybrakes Business Park, Ballymoney, County Antrim, BT53 6LW

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2763 9533

racecontrol@kartsportleisure.com

Type

Type:

Motor Sports and Karting

Welcome to Kartsport Karting and Activity Centre, the North Coast’s indoor Karting and Activity Centre, just 20 minutes drive from the North Coast and a 15 minute walk from Ballymoney Train Station. Catering for kids young and old with Mini F1 Karts…

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
10 reviews
Templecorran Church and Graveyard

Ballycarry

Address

Main Street, Ballycarry, County Antrim, BT38 9BF

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9335 8220

parks@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Churches & Sacred Sites

Discover magnificent views and Ulster Scots heritage in Templecorran graveyard, Ballycarry.

Price
Free

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Carr Golf Travel

Castleknock

Address

Elmgreen Golf Centre, Castleknock, Dublin, BT1 1NB

Telephone
+44 (0) 0353 18226662

enquiries@carrgolf.com

Type

Type:

Golf Tour Operators

Carr Golf Travel offer tailor made golf trips to Northern Ireland and Ireland. With 25 years’ experience in the golf industry, we understand what turns a great trip into an unforgettable vacation.

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Bog Meadows

Belfast

Address

Bog Meadows Nature Reserve, 25 Milltown Row, Belfast, County Antrim, BT12 6EP

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

This route explores an area of floodplain, now managed as an award wining urban nature reserve which provides a fanatstic oasis for wildlife.

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
WaveRides Paddleboarding

Carrickfergus

Address

3 Quayside, Carrickfergus, County Antrim, BT38 8BJ

Telephone
+44 (0) 7428 771 991

robert.richardson1212@btinternet.com

Type

Type:

Water Sports

Learn stand up paddle boarding in the picturesque old harbour at Carrickfergus Castle, on the main Causeway Coastal route with the castle as your impressive backdrop.

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Rathlin Kinramer North Walk

Rathlin Island

Address

Rathlin Island, Rathlin Island, County Antrim, BT54 6SB

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

A waymarked route through Kebble Nature Reserve, taking in the north of the island with stunning views of dramatic sea cliffs and of Scotland beyond.

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
16 reviews
Cairndhu Golf Club

Larne

Address

192 Coast Road, Ballygally, Larne, County Antrim, BT40 2QG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2858 3324

office@cairndhugolfclub.com

Type

Type:

Parkland Golf Course

Superb parkland course designed by J.F.S. Morrison, partner in the firm of Colt, Allison and Morrison, and chosen for its unique site in over 200 acres of mature woodlands and rolling hills.

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Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on site
Kintra Boat Tours - Great Lighthouses of Rathlin Island

Ballycastle

Address

Bayview Road, Ballycastle, County Antrim, BT54 6BT

Telephone
+44 (0) 7848473652

kintraboats@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Boat Tours

Experience a guided boat tour of the historic lighthouses of Rathlin on the Causeway Coast of Ireland whilst taking in one of Ireland's most spectacular wildlife habitats with breath taking scenery.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
829 reviews
Alive Adventures

Portrush

Address

West Strand, Portrush, County Antrim, BT56 8FQ

Telephone
+44 (0) 7935 952 532

lessons@aliveadventures.co.uk

Type

Type:

Surfing

Welcome to Alive Adventures in Portrush, N. Ireland, 6 * time winner of Tripadvisor’s “Cert. of Excellence” & “Hall Of Fame” award! We offer a range of activities & rentals, from surfing & SUP, to kayaking & eBikes You’ll be spoiled for choice!

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Angling @ North Woodburn Reservoir (Carrick Dams)

Carrickfergus

Address

Woodburn Road, Carrickfergus, County Antrim, BT38 9QL

Type

Type:

Coarse Fishing

Anglers must use the official entrances and on no account trespass on adjoining lands or park their cars in such a way as to obstruct roadways or gate entrances. These are very popular lakes and are stocked regularly with up to 30000 takeable sized…

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Fairhead An Bealach Runda Walk

Ballycastle

Address

Fairhead Car Park, Fairhead Road, Ballycastle, Co Antrim, BT54 6RD

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Enjoy breath-taking views from the cliff edge of Fairhead

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Cliftonville Golf Club

Belfast

Address

44 Westland Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT14 6NH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9074 4158

cliftonvillegc@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Parkland Golf Course

Cliftonville Golf Club was founded in 1911. It is one of Belfast City’s oldest clubs with a wealth of history and experience.

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Coasteering NI

Ballintoy

Address

Harbour Road, Ballintoy, County Antrim, BT54 6NA

splash@coasteeringni.co.uk

Type

Type:

Coasteering & Bouldering

Our mission is to take you on adventure like no other. Coasteering is challenging, thrilling and suitable for all ages and abilities.
We want you to test your comfort zone, feel the fear and do it anyway and have mega fun.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
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)
Presbyterian Historical Society

Belfast

Address

26 College Green, Belfast, County Antrim, BT7 1LN

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9072 7330

phsilibrarian@pcinet.org

Type

Type:

Ancestry / Tracing Your Routes

History of Presbyterianism in Ireland and its congregations, including congregational, synod and presbytery records, and private papers of ministers and missionaries.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
848 reviews
Ballintoy Harbour

Ballintoy

Address

Harbour Road, Ballintoy, County Antrim, BT54 6NA

Telephone
07803 505084

Ballycastle.marina@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Causeway Coastal Route

Ballintoy Harbour can be discovered in the picturesque village of Ballintoy. Known as a ‘raised beach’, it is located alongside the B15 Coast Road, 17 miles north-east of Coleraine and five miles west of Ballycastle.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Darren Clarke Golf School

Antrim

Address

The Lodge, Greenmount Campus, Antrim, County Antrim, BT41 4PU

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9446 6227

info@darrenclarkegolfschool.com

Type

Type:

Craft Workshops and Courses

Based at the excellent location of CAFRE Greenmount Campus in Antrim, our full time or part time courses will follow a unique, and tested, structured programme that will develop and enhance golf, education, lifestyle, psychology, fitness and more.

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
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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