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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: 416

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
178 reviews
Giant's Causeway and Bushmills Railway

Bushmills

Address

Giant's Causeway Station, Runkerry Road, Bushmills, County Antrim, BT57 8SZ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2073 2844

infogcbr@btconnect.com

Type

Type:

Railway

A truly heritage experience travelling on a steam locomotive along a magnificent coastal stretch of line between Bushmills and the World Heritage Site at the Giant's Causeway.

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
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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Phils Family Amusements & Bingo Hall

Portrush

Address

64-72 Main Street, Portrush, Portrush, Co Antrim, BT56 8BN

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7082 2201

info@telcotrading.co.uk

Type

Type:

Indoor Play Area

For lovers of video games, slot machines and bingo, no trip to Portrush is complete without visiting Phil’s Amusements. Discover how the whole family can ‘save tickets for big prizes’.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
102 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

The new 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

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Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1 reviews
Garron Point

Carnlough

Address

87 Garron Road, Carnlough, County Antrim, BT44 0JS

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9335 8222

visitorinfo@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Viewpoint

Garron Point is an outstanding headland on the Causeway Coastal Route offering magnificent views. You can park your car nearby and have a picnic or go on a short walk to the coastline to watch locals sea fishing or view nearby Scotland.

Price
Free

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Funky Monkeys - Cityside Centre, Children's Indoor Play Centre

Belfast

Address

Cityside Retail Park, 100 - 150 York Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT11 1WA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9074 4370

cityside@funkymonkeysni.co.uk

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.

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Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Walks at Carnfunnock Country Park

Larne

Address

Carnfunnock Country Park, Coast Road, Larne, County Antrim, BT40 2LH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2826 2471

carnfunnock@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

A whole host of great walks on offer through the picturesque surroundings of Carnfunnock Country Park.

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Rathlin Kebble Cliff Walk

Rathlin Island

Address

Rathlin Island, Rathlin Island, County Antrim, BT54 6RT

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

A waymarked route around Kebble South, taking in the south of the island with stunning views of dramatic sea cliffs and of Ballycastle beyond.

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Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Layd Old Church

Cushendall

Address

Layde Road, Cushendall, County Antrim, BT44 0NH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9082 3207

scmenquiries@communities-ni.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Churches & Sacred Sites

Located one mile from Cushendall are the delightful ruins of a 13th century Franciscan foundation. Chief burial place of the MacDonnell's after Bonamargy which has been built at least three times and served as a parish church.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Fairhead Murlough View 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

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
828 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
Quartered: Belfast, A Love Story

Belfast

Address

The Dark Horse, Hill Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 2LB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9024 3343

zoe@kabosh.net

Type

Type:

Arts and Culture tours

Quartered: Belfast, A Love Story is an outdoor audio theatre walking tour that lets you see the city from a different perspective, making familiar streets seem brand new and allowing you to experience another side to Belfast.

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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
Ballymoney Town Hall Arts, Museum and Visitor Information

Ballymoney

Address

1 Townhead Street, Ballymoney, County Antrim, BT53 6BE

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2766 0230

visitor.information@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Visitor Centres & Museums

Ballymoney’s Arts, Museum and Visitor Information Centre is well worth a visit. This visually stunning building combines old with new. The Town Hall provides numerous rooms for hire, which can facilitate anything from 4 to 350 delegates.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

More Info
Facilities

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

Establishment Features
- Wifi
A Giant Causeway Glass-Making Experience

Bushmills

Address

60 Causeway Road, Bushmills, County Antrim, BT57 8SU

Telephone
+44 (0) 7752 315 476

irishglassartist@outlook.com

Price
Price £75.00 Activity

Type

Type:

Craft Workshops and Courses

Join Eleanor-Jane for a hands on glass making experience inspired by the Causeway stones. Using recycled stained glass from a local church, Eleanor- Jane gently guides you through the process allowing your creativity to shine through with each…

Dates

Price
Price £75.00 Activity

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Portaneevy Viewing Point

Ballintoy

Address

Portaneevy Viewing Point and Car Park, Ballintoy, County Antrim, BT54 6LR

Telephone
+44 (0) 282076 2024

visitor.information@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Viewpoint

This vantage point looks out over several islands, namely Rathlin, Carrick-a-rede and Sheep Island.

Price
Free

More Info
Naughton Gallery at Queen's

Belfast

Address

Lanyon Building, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, County Antrim, BT7 1NN

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9097 3580

art@qub.ac.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Art Gallery

The Naughton Gallery, located in the historic Lanyon Building at Queen’s University, is an award winning registered museum displaying works from the University’s own collection, touring exhibitions and shows by local and international artists.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Various Opening Times

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
2 reviews
Skernaghan Point Walk

Islandmagee

Address

Brown's Bay Beach, Islandmagee, County Antrim, BT40 3RU

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9064 7787

belfast@nationaltrust.org.uk

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

This is a path that goes over a variety of uneven terrain including a grassy field and a rocky coastline which is steep in places. Dogs should be kept on a lead.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Winterfell Trek from Belfast

Belfast

Address

Pickup from Leonardo Hotel, Great Victoria Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT1 6DY

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9568 0023

info@gameofthronestours.com

Price
Price £45.00 to £49.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

GoT Guided Tours

Morning trek at Old Castle Ward aka Winterfell and to Audley’s Castle aka Walder Frey’s Twins. Inch Abbey, where Robb became King in the North. Afternoon trek in Tollymore Forest to the wildling pit and where the Starks found the direwolf pups.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025

Price
Price £45.00 to £49.00 Per Ticket

More Info
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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