- Giant’s Causeway: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this natural wonder features around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. Visitors can expect stunning coastal scenery, guided tours explaining the geology and myths (like the legend of Finn McCool), and walking trails along the cliffs. The visitor center offers interactive exhibits, and the Causeway Coastal Route nearby enhances the experience with dramatic views.
- Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge: This iconic rope bridge, maintained by the National Trust, spans a 20-meter gap between cliffs and an island, offering thrilling views of the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can expect a short coastal walk to reach the bridge, breathtaking scenery, and opportunities to spot seabirds or marine life. The crossing is a highlight, though it requires a head for heights.
- Bushmills Distillery: The oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world, dating back to 1608, located in the village of Bushmills. Visitors can expect guided tours showcasing the whiskey-making process, from malting to bottling, with tastings of Bushmills’ renowned single malts. The distillery also has a gift shop and a cozy café.
- Dunluce Castle: A dramatic medieval castle ruin perched on a cliff edge overlooking the sea, linked to tales of shipwrecks and clan history. Visitors can explore the atmospheric ruins, including towers and remnants of a 17th-century mansion, while learning about its history through interpretive displays. The coastal setting offers stunning photo opportunities.
- Titanic Belfast: Located in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, this award-winning museum tells the story of the RMS Titanic, built in the city’s Harland & Wolff shipyard. Visitors can expect immersive exhibits, including recreated ship interiors, interactive displays, and artifacts, covering the ship’s construction, voyage, and sinking. The museum also explores Belfast’s industrial heritage.
- Glens of Antrim: Nine scenic valleys known for their lush landscapes, waterfalls, and quaint villages like Glenariff and Glenarm. Visitors can expect hiking trails (especially in Glenariff Forest Park), cycling routes, and opportunities to explore local folklore and history. The glens offer peaceful escapes with stunning views of forests, rivers, and mountains.
- Belfast Castle and Cave Hill: A 19th-century castle set on the slopes of Cave Hill in Belfast, offering panoramic views of the city and Belfast Lough. Visitors can explore the castle’s gardens, visitor center, and antique shop, while Cave Hill provides hiking trails to McArt’s Fort and caves, with sweeping vistas and historical significance.
- Portrush and the Coastal Towns: Portrush, a vibrant seaside town, is known for its beaches (like Whiterocks and West Strand), water sports, and the Dunluce Centre. Visitors can expect family-friendly activities, surfing, golfing at Royal Portrush Golf Club (host of The Open), and lively dining and nightlife. Nearby coastal towns like Portstewart add charm with their harbors and promenades.
- Rathlin Island: A small island off the coast, accessible by ferry from Ballycastle, known for its rugged beauty and wildlife. Visitors can expect a serene escape with opportunities to see puffins and seals at the Seabird Centre, explore lighthouses, and enjoy cycling or walking trails. The island’s history includes Viking raids and shipwrecks.
- Antrim Castle Gardens and Clotworthy House: Located in Antrim town, these beautifully restored gardens feature ornamental canals, parterres, and a deer park. Visitors can expect peaceful walks, historical insights at Clotworthy House (a cultural hub with exhibitions), and seasonal events. The gardens are ideal for families and those seeking a tranquil setting.
Antrim:
Introduction – 1837 – Adventure – Anthem – Archaeology – Attractions – Awards – Birdwatching – Castles – Contact list – Dining – Equestrian –Festivals – Fishing – Folklore – Golf – Graveyards – Happening – Haunted – Highest – Hiking – History – Holy Wells – Hotels – Instagrammable– Itineraries – Largest town – Luxury – MICE – Movies –Musicians – Name – Novelists – Off the beaten track – Poets – Pubs – Quotes – Random facts – Restaurant Awards – Saints – Spas – Sports – Sunsets – Sustainable – Towns – Video – Villages – Walking – Wanderlist – Weddings – Writers
Attractions
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