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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
3 reviews
Straidkilly Nature Reserve

Carnlough

Address

Straidkilly Road, Carnlough, County Antrim, BT44 0LQ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9045 4094

info@ulsterwildlife.org

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Nature and Wildlife

Small and secluded Ulster Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve, located on an inland route between Glenarm and Carnlough, on the hill slope above the Coast Road with interesting flora and fauna alongside panoramic views across the Irish Sea to Scotland.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
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)
Magheracross View Point

Bushmills

Address

Dunluce Road, Bushmills, County Antrim, BT56 8NB

Type

Type:

Viewpoint

The purpose-built viewing platform offers panoramic views of the Causeway Coast's stunning natural environment and coastal headlands, including views of Dunluce Castle and Whiterocks Beach

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Clonard Monastery

Belfast

Address

1a Clonard Gardens, Falls Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT13 2RL

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9044 5950

reds@clonard.com

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Churches & Sacred Sites

Built in 1897 by the Naughton brothers of Randalstown, Clonard Monastery was designed in early French Gothic style by Ludwig Oppenheimer; Clonard is home to the Redemptorists, who were founded in Italy in 1732.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Rathlin Ballyconaghan Trail

Rathlin Island

Address

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

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

A waymarked route on National Trust Land taking in the north of the island, stunning views out to the Atlantic and Scotland

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
14 reviews
Oakfield Glen and Bashfordsland Wood Walk

Carrickfergus

Address

Oakfield Drive, Carrickfergus, County Antrim, BT38 7BY

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

A charming wooded glen and recently planted woodland

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Dunlop Memorial Gardens

Ballymoney

Address

Castle Street, Corner of Seymour Street, Ballymoney, County Antrim, BT53 6TD

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2766 0230

visitor.information@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Local Heroes

In this beautiful setting visitors have time to reflect on the unprecedented achievements of these much loved international motorcycling legends.

Price
Free

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Charter Boats NI

Carrickfergus

Address

Carrickfergus Marina, (in front of 5 Rogers Quay), Carrickfergus, County Antrim, BT38 8BE

Telephone
+44 (0) 7754 173019

info@charterboatsni.com

Type

Type:

Boat Tours

Explore the Beauty of the Sea with Charter Boats NI! Join us at Carrickfergus Marina for private charters, guided tours, and trips to the Gobbins plus Carrickfergus to Bangor. Book online for unforgettable sea adventures!

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
- On site parking
- Parking (free)
Facilities

Accessibility
- Ramp to main entrance
Outdoor Concepts (NI) Ltd

Belfast

Address

The Mount, 2 Woodstock Link, Belfast, Co Antrim, BT6 8DD

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9073 7271

info@outdoorconcepts.co.uk

Type

Type:

Climbing

The possibilities for adventure in Northern Ireland are endless - how about canoeing along one of the award-winning canoe trails? Or jumping into rock pools in Newcastle? Or perhaps mountain biking and rock climbing in the world famous Mourne…

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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

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Public Park

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.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
3344 reviews
SS Nomadic

Belfast

Address

Hamilton Dock, Queen's Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT3 9DT

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9076 6386

enquiries@nomadicbelfast.com

Price
Price £5.00 to £10.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Visitor Centres & Museums

Built in 1911, Nomadic provides the story of Titanic's little sister, the only tangible surviving link with the world's most famous ship and the last White Star Line vessel in the world.

Dates

Price
Price £5.00 to £10.00 Per Ticket

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Leisure Facilities
- Wifi
Clifftop Experience (Away A Wee Walk)

Belfast

Address

Away A Wee Walk, 20 Ben Eden Green, Belfast, County Antrim, BT15 4GU

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2073 1855

eimear@awayaweewalk.com

Price
Price £39.00 Activity

Type

Type:

Sightseeing

The best way to avoid the crowds and get under the skin of a place is to explore it with a local friend, which is what walking the Causeway Coast with Eimear Flanagan feels like. These are ‘her’ cliffs, and she is delighted to share it with visitors.

Price
Price £39.00 Activity

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Divis Lough Trail (all ability)

Belfast

Address

Divis Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT17 0NG

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Gentle circular route that leads you across the open hills on a wide, flat and gently sloping path. Lough Neagh, the Sperrins and further afield can be viewed on a clear day.

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Titanic Trail

Belfast

Address

Titanic Memorial Garden, City Hall, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 5GS

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Discover Belfast’s links to its unique Titanic and maritime heritage following this trail from the Titanic Memorial Garden at Belfast City Hall to Titanic Quarter.

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Blokart World

Ballymena

Address

46 Rathmore Heights, Ballymena, Ballymena, Co Antrim, BT43 6NQ

Telephone
+4407703 209989

info@blokartworld.com

Type

Type:

Blokarting

Some call it Landsailing, others call it Sand yachting.

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
79 reviews
Ormeau Park

Belfast

Address

Ormeau Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT7 3GG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9049 1813

parksinfo@belfastcity.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Public Park

Ormeau Park is the oldest municipal park in Belfast, officially opening to the public in 1871. It is still one of the largest parks in Belfast and offers a great mix of horticulture, woodland, flower displays and wildlife.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
826 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!

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Causeway Sea Tours

Portrush

Address

Portrush Harbour, Portrush, County Antrim, BT56 8DF

Telephone
+44 (0) 7720 440 117

info@predatorireland.com

Type

Type:

Boat Tours

With the move to Portrush, Predator is now offering sea tours of various sights around the North Coast of Ireland, including Giants Causeway, the Skerries, Ballintroy, and more.

More Info
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)
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