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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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Balmoral Golf Club

Belfast

Address

518 Lisburn Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT9 6GX

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9038 1514

admin@balmoralgolf.com

Type

Type:

Parkland Golf Course

One of Northern Ireland's finest parkland course. Situated in the leafy suburbs of South Belfast close to the city centre.

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Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on site
Jeanette Kidd Beauty and Day Spa

Lisburn

Address

26 Railway Street, Lisburn, County Antrim, BT28 1XG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9266 3102

jeanette.kidd@jeanettekidd.com

Type

Type:

Spa and Well-being

Adv waxing, threading, tinting, electrolysis, eyelash perming/extensions, tanning, make-up application.
Skin-tag, red vein, milia treatments. Massage, facials, Hot Stone, Aromatherapy, Indian Head Massage, Reflexology, Manicures, Pedicures,…

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
46 reviews
Slemish Mountain Hike

Broughshane

Address

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

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Steep rocky track

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
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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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1129 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 May 2025to30 Sept 2025Open 10:00 - 12:30

From:

1 Oct 2025to30 Apr 2026Various Opening Times

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
90 reviews
The People’s Park

Ballymena

Address

Doury Road, Ballymena, County Antrim, BT43 6JA

Telephone
+44 (0) 300 124 5000

Parks@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Public Park

45-acre urban park in the heart of Ballymena with something to do for all the family - you can check out the lake full of ducks, modern playground, urban art, sports facilities, delightful flowers and onsite community initiatives.

Price
Free

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
The Mystic of the East - Van Morrison Trail

Belfast

Address

Avalon House, 278-280 Newtownards Road, Belfast, Co Antrim, BT4 1HE

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9045 1900

visitorcentre@eastsidepartnership.com

Type

Type:

Self-guided tour

The Van Morrison Trail will take you on a journey through the east Belfast of Van's youth. The Trail is a wonderful opportunity for you to visit some of the places that Morrison knew as a child growing up.

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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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Hot Milk Forge Économusée

Martinstown

Address

22 Lisnamanny Road, Lisnamanny, Martinstown, County Antrim, BT43 6QH

Telephone
+44 (0)7740 510 008

hotmilkforge@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Craft Workshops and Courses

Hot Milk Forge offers evening and weekend classes in Blacksmithing and Bladesmithing.

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
4 reviews
The Great Light & Titanic Walkway

Belfast

Address

Queens Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT3 9FH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9073 0490

info@greatlighttq.org

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Maritime Heritage

The Great Light is one of the largest optics of its kind ever built in the world, and is around 130 years old. It is located on the Titanic Walkway, a new 500 metre maritime walkway on Victoria Wharf, connecting the Titanic Slipways to HMS Caroline.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

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

Cushendall

Address

Shore Road, Cushendall, County Antrim, BT44 0NG

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Monument and coastal scenery

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
63 reviews
Patterson's Spade Mill

Templepatrick

Address

751 Antrim Road, Templepatrick, County Antrim, BT39 0AP

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9443 3619

pattersons@nationaltrust.org.uk

Type

Type:

The National Trust

Listen to the hammers, smell the grit, feel the heat and witness the thrill of the only surviving water-driven spade mill in Ireland.

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
23 reviews
Ecos Nature Park

Ballymena

Address

Kernohans Lane, Broughshane Road, Ballymena, County Antrim, BT43 7QA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2564 4046

parks@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Nature and Wildlife

Ecos Nature Park is an oasis of wildlife, close to the heart of Ballymena town with 8 kilometres of flat footpaths leading visitors around 220 acres of parkland that includes maturing woodland, peaceful lake and ponds, grazed meadows and hay meadows.

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking - Ecos Nature Park has free designated accessible parking on site for cars, coaches and minibuses.
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)
Lough Neagh Fisheries Visitors Centre

Toomebridge

Address

4 Bannside, Toomebridge, County Antrim, BT41 3SB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7965 0618

info@loughneagheels.com

Type

Type:

Visitor Centres & Museums

Providing tourists with in-depth and informative insight into the fishing industry on the Lough and the various fish species found there, including the epic 6,000 km migration of eels to and from the Sargasso Sea in the North Atlantic Ocean.

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
R-Space Gallery

Lisburn

Address

32 Castle Street, Lisburn, County Antrim, BT27 4XE

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9266 3179

rspace@linenroomslisburn.com

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Art Gallery

R-Space Gallery is a visual arts and crafts space, presenting and commissioning a programme of exhibitions and arts activity based in The Linen Rooms in the heart of the City of Lisburn, Northern Ireland.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
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)
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
123 reviews
Prison Island

Belfast

Address

Unit 3, 17 Balmoral Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT12 6QA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9038 0862

admin@prisonislandbelfast.com

Type

Type:

Activity Centre

4 Activities in 1 Venue. Open late 7 days a week, located 10 minutes from the city centre. Prison Island Belfast is a must for the bucket list.

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Accessibility
- Ramp to main entrance
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wi-fi available
Game of Thrones® Afternoon Tea at Ballygally Castle Hotel

Ballygally

Address

274 Coast Road, Ballygally, County Antrim, BT40 2QZ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2858 1066

res@bcg.hastingshotels.com

Type

Type:

GoT Food Tours

Ballygally Castle Hotel is offering a Game of Thrones® Afternoon Tea which will delight fans of the world-renowned show as well as those who love the indulgence of a delicious afternoon tea.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Aberdelghy Golf Course

Lambeg

Address

1 Bell's Lane, Lambeg, Antrim, BT27 4QH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9266 2738

aberdelghy@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Parkland Golf Course

An attractive 18 hole parkland Course situated minutes from Lisburn City Centre.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025

More Info