12 Best Things To Do In Antrim, Northern Ireland

1. Admire the fascinating Antrim Castle Gardens

The Antrim Castle Gardens is one of the most well-preserved historical grounds - not just in Antrim, but in all of Ireland! Located right along the Six Mile River, the castle gardens is a popular destination for families and couples, especially during the spring and autumn months, when the garden is at its most vibrant and colorful. Its perfectly manicured paths make it a great place to enjoy a relaxing walk, go on a leisurely bike ride, or even set up a lovely picnic with the family. After exploring the blooming garden, you can also indulge in a cup of tea or coffee at the cafe, then admire the fascinating pieces at the art gallery.

Antrim Castle Gardens

Address: Clotworthy House, Randalstown Road, Antrim

Website: Antrim Castle Gardens

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: 5.1 USD

2. Tee off at Massereene Golf Club

Eager to hit the green on your next trip to Antrim? You should definitely visit the Massereene Golf Club! Established in the 1980s, the Massereene Golf Club is one of the most popular country clubs in Antrim. The club boasts an 18-hole par-72 parkland that is challenging, yet suitable for golfers of all skill levels. In addition to their excellent course, the club is noted for its picturesque views of Lough Neagh. If you’re hoping to meet other golfers in the area, the club also offers plenty of opportunities to socialize, with golf societies, as well as numerous tournaments and events that the club regularly hosts.

Massereene Golf Clu

Address: 51 Lough Rd, Antrim BT41 4DQ

Website: Massereene Golf Club

Opening hours: 7am - 11pm (daily)

3. Spend a day at Antrim Lough Shore Park

Antrim Lough Shore Park is another excellent family-friendly destination in Antrim. You can set up a cozy picnic with loved ones, and let the kids run and play at the nautical-themed play area. The park is also an ideal date spot. You can go on a romantic walk and feed the swans with that special person! You can also grab a bite at Manns at the Lough Shore, a cafe located along the park that serves delicious homemade meals and baked treats. Antrim Lough Shore Park is also just a short walk from the breathtaking Antrim Castle Gardens - exploring these two must-see destinations would be a great way to spend an afternoon in Antrim!

Antrim Lough Shore Park

Address: Lough Rd, BT41 4DQ, Antrim

Opening hours: Summers: 8am - 9:30pm (daily); Winters: 8am - 7:30pm (daily)

Price: Free entry

4. Check out the historical Antrim Round Tower

Dating all the way back to the 10th century, Antrim Round Tower is one of the most important historical sites in Antrim. Also called The Steeple, the tower stands at 28 m (91.68 ft) and is said to have been part of a monastery dedicated to Saint Patrick. Though the monastery is believed to have been destroyed in 1147, it served a pivotal role in the founding of the city itself! To this day, one can visit the tower and see details, such as intricate carvings, all perfectly preserved. Today, the Round Tower serves as a monument to Antrim’s spirituality and history, making it a must-see for anyone visiting the city!

Antrim Round Tower

Address: Trustee House 16 High Street, Antrim BT41 4AN Northern Ireland

Website: Antrim Round Tower

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

5. Catch a fresh breath of air at Rea's Wood

If you’d like to catch a breath of fresh air or simply get closer to nature, then a trip to Rea’s Wood is just what you need! Rea’s Wood Forest Nature Reserve is an oasis in the quiet city of Antrim. Nestled along the shores of Lough Neagh, Rea’s Wood boasts verdant wetlands, filled with towering Alder, Birch, and Willow trees. Its mile-long path also leads to the Lough Neagh Cycle Way, so you can go on a walk or a relaxing bike ride and just take in the natural beauty of the area. You can also take your dog for a walk here, but be sure to keep your pet secured on a leash!

Rea's Wood

Address: 72 Lough Rd, Antrim BT41 4DQ, UK.

Price: Free

6. Take a tour of Clotworthy House

Located at the heart of the Antrim Castle Gardens is the majestic Clotworthy House. Built in the 1840s, Clotworthy House used to serve as the stable block of the now-demolished Antrim Castle. Today, the neo-Tudor style home is beautifully restored and refurbished, offering its guests a unique glimpse of daily life in the 1800s. Their permanent exhibitions on the history of the castle and gardens are sure to make you feel as though you’ve traveled back in time! After viewing the exhibits, you can also head to Garden Coffee Shop, where you can indulge in some delicious meals and pastries.

Clotworthy House

Address: Randalstown Rd, Antrim BT41 4LH, United Kingdom

Opening hours: Mon, Wed, Fri: 9:30am - 5pm; Tue & Thu: 9:30am - 9:30pm; Sat & Sun: 10am - 5pm

Price: Free entry

7. Plan a day to visit Shanes Castle

Whether you’re a history nerd or a fan of fantasy, you wouldn’t want to miss seeing Shanes Castle on your next trip to Antrim! If you are a fan of the hit television show Game of Thrones, you may even recognize the castle instantly, as it was used extensively throughout the series. It is little wonder why - built in 1345, and located along the shores of Lough Neagh, the castle ruins have withstood the test of time and remain one of the most scenic historical spots in the region. Plus, most of the castle grounds can only be accessed on a horse, so you’ll definitely be able to live out that medieval fantasy, just by exploring these fascinating ruins!

Shanes Castle

Address: Randalstown Road, Antrim Northern Ireland

Website: Shanes Castle

Price: Free entry

8. Have a wonderful time at Antrim Motte

Simply called “Ancient Motte”, Antrim Motte is another wonderfully preserved historical site, located within the Castle Gardens. Situated towards the eastern border of the gardens, Ancient Motte is believed to have been built in the 12th century by the Earl of Ulster. Historical records describe the Motte as the center of an opulent manor, surrounded by a busy settlement. Standing tall, the Motte was later used as a vantage point by the Captain of Lough. To this day, it stands as a reminder of the great history of Antrim, as well as its own important role in the formation of its surrounding gardens.

Antrim Motte

Address: Antrim Castle Gardens Randalstown Road, Antrim BT41 4LH, Northern Ireland

Website: Antrim Motte

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8:30am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

Price: Free entry

9. Indulge in sheer fun at Barney's

What is a trip to Ireland without enjoying a pint with your closest friends? At Barney’s Bar, you can enjoy excellent entertainment, top-notch drinks, and the best company! Barney’s is one of the most popular haunts in Antrim’s nightlife scene, serving up beer, wine, and spirits every evening. You can also catch some of the best local musical acts performing here, or watch your favorite sports live. The bar also regularly hosts themed nights - like their fun 80s and 90s throwback parties - as well as other exciting events, which you wouldn’t want to miss!

Barney's Bar Antrim

Address: 19 Market Square BT41 4AW Antrim, Antrim, United Kingdom

Website: Barney’s Bar Antrim

Popular nearby attraction

10. World of Owls

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

World of Owls is an owl conservation park at Randalstown Forest which is 7.3 mi (11.75 km) from Antrim. Their main aim is to ensure the survival of owls worldwide. They do this through rescue, conservation, education, research, and restoration of natural habitat efforts. You can visit for a full-day or half-day, there’s an indoor and outdoor display area, shop, and cafe. There’s also a play area for kids to enjoy.

The conservation park welcomes all visitors, it is wheelchair accessible and all staff are trained with working with visitors with special needs.

World of Owls

Address: 32 Mount Shalgus Ln, Randalstown, Antrim BT41 3LE, United Kingdom

Website: World of Owls

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 11am - 3pm (closed on Mon)

11. Randalstown Forest

Randalstown Forest is a 2.5 mi (4.02 km) circular walking park where you can spot deer and World of Owls. It is a small forest comprising deciduous and coniferous trees. Eating before you come here is advisable as there are no shops or cafes.

Even the elderly and specially-abled people can come to this forest as paths are accessible by wheelchair or stroller. You can bring your dog for a walk and come across various butterflies and insects. However, this forest is an excellent place to visit if you’re interested in spotting wildlife.

Randalstown Forest

Address: 25 Mount Shalgus Ln, Randalstown, BT41 3LE, Antrim

12. Drop by the beautiful Glens of Antrim

Known locally as just “The Glens”, the Glens Of Antrim is a sprawling area along the Causeway Coast, in the northern part of the county. It stretches about 80 miles (128.8 km) and is composed of 9 glens (or valleys), encompassing 6 main towns and villages. The Glens of Antrim are among the most breathtaking landscapes in the region and have been recognized as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty since 1988. Each of the glens has its own unique charm and natural beauty, so exploring every one of them is a must on your next visit to Antrim!

Glens Of Antrim

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Antrim: full of heritage and natural beauty

With all the charming castles, beautiful gardens, and breathtaking landscapes, it is little wonder that this calm and peaceful town appears in numerous popular fiction shows. Rich in both heritage and natural beauty, Antrim is a fantasy world come to life! Don’t forget to enjoy all the good food and drink it has to offer, too. If you want your vacation to be unique, inspiring, and filled with wonder, Antrim should easily be at the top of your list.