Official tourism website for Northern Ireland
En

The Rinkha - Ice Cream Parlour

55 Middle Road, Islandmagee, County Antrim, BT40 3SL
Ice cream serving counter with The Rinkha ice cream logo

Book Tickets Online

About

Indulge in Sweet Tradition at The Rinkha - Crafting Homemade Ice Cream Since 1921!

For nearly a century, The Rinkha has been synonymous with homemade ice cream, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the scenic wonders of Islandmagee, The Gobbins, and the Causeway Coastal Route.

In the year 1921, Mrs. Henrietta Hawkins created the delicious recipe that forms the foundation of all our ice cream flavours today. This cherished family secret remains unchanged, though we've expanded our offerings to include a diverse range of enticing and innovative flavours. Utilising only the finest ingredients available on the market, each creation is freshly made on our premises.  From the timeless allure of Vanilla, Honeycomb, Strawberry, and Belgian Chocolate to the contemporary delights of HoneyChoc and Mint Choc Chip, our Classic Flavors embody the essence of The Rinkha's enduring legacy.

The Rinkha, steeped in history and considered an institution in the area, was erected in 1937. Initially a beloved dance hall and community centre until the 1960s, its name, 'The Rinkha,' an Irish term signifying a place of dance and mirth, reflects its vibrant past. Today, this local treasure, still owned by the Hawkins family now in its fourth generation, stands as a popular general shop, complete with an ice cream parlour and toy store.

Our extensive selection of fantastic ice cream flavours is a year-round treat, complemented by an array of sauces, dips, and vibrant toppings. Whether you're picking up a timeless vanilla '99' cone to enjoy at one of Islandmagee's beauty spots or relaxing at our outside tables in the summer sun, The Rinkha promises a delightful experience. For those seeking a delectable dessert at home, why not take a tub home for the family?

So, whether you're drawn to the comforting familiarity of our classic flavours or enticed by the thrill of discovering something extraordinary, come celebrate the tradition, taste the legacy, and make memories with The Rinkha.

The Rinkha - Crafting Memories, One Scoop at a Time!

Book Tickets

Facilities

Catering

  • Dogs Accepted Outdoor Dining Area
  • Food shop
  • Local Produce

Children & Infants

  • Highchairs Available

Establishment Features

  • Shop

Parking & Transport

  • On site parking
  • Station nearby

Payment Methods

  • All major credit/debit cards accepted

Tripadvisor Traveller Rating

Tripadvisor Traveller Rating - 145 reviews145 reviews

Add The Rinkha - Ice Cream Parlour to your Itinerary

Close window

Call direct on:

Tel+44 (0) 28 9335 3229

Map & Directions

Opening Times

* From Easter / Summer
Monday to Saturday 08:00 - 20:00 (To 21:00 from June)
Sunday 09:00- 20:00 (To 21:00 from June)

Autumn/Winter
Monday to Friday 08:00 - 18:00
Saturday & Sunday 09:00 - 18:00

What's Nearby

  1. On the thrilling Gobbins Experience, nature isn’t content to just sit back and be admired…

    0.17 miles away
  2. A short and delightful coastal path from the picturesque seaside town of Whitehead to…

    1.39 miles away
  3. The new Whitehead Railway Museum will take visitors on a journey through time, see our…

    1.57 miles away
  4. Whitehead Centre provides a tourism hub for information about what is going on locally…

    1.73 miles away
  5. Discover magnificent views and Ulster Scots heritage in Templecorran graveyard,…

    1.8 miles away
  6. Follow the winding road down to reach this hidden gem. With its picture-book perfect…

    4.81 miles away
  7. Located less than a mile from the Town Centre, off the Larne Road, the Andrew Jackson…

    4.91 miles away
  8. One of our lesser known ‘hidden treasures’, Gleno is a magnificent 30 foot waterfall…

    5.19 miles away
  9. Carrickfergus Urban Farm and Garden Centre at Kilcreggan is a free popular attraction for…

    5.33 miles away
  10. Popular award winning rural beach positioned in a delightful sandy bay, at the northern…

    5.61 miles away
  11. Beautiful parkland on the waterfront of Carrickfergus within sight of the Castle…

    5.66 miles away
  12. Local museum interpreting the long and distinguished history of the town and surrounding…

    5.84 miles away
  13. For more than 800 years, Carrickfergus Castle has been an imposing monument on the…

    5.98 miles away
  14. This special memorial tower stands tall on the western side of Larne Lough, at the…

    6.36 miles away
  15. Enjoy a lovely walk along a one mile long stretch of Promenade running from Larne Leisure…

    6.55 miles away
  16. Town Park and Chaine Park are delightful parks located on the Causeway Coastal route in…

    6.74 miles away

Virtual Tour

Map & Directions

Back to Top

Tourism Northern Ireland

Don't Miss