County Antrim

Northern Ireland
Dunluce Castle which includes heritage elements and building ruins as well as a small group of people
Walk along the columns of Northern Ireland’s most iconic natural landmark and relax on the beaches of this pretty coastal region.

County Antrim comprises impressive scenery, a rich history and intriguing cities. The rocky coastline inspires spectacular photos, particularly at the world-renowned Giant’s Causeway. Drive through the charming towns of this cultured region to experience local customs and traditions.

Visit the city of Lisburn, southwest of Belfast, for its fascinating museums and churches. Admire the Lisburn Cathedral, which dates back to the early 18th century. Get pampered at the relaxing havens of Jeanette Kidd Beauty and Day Spa and The Club Spa. The town’s highlight is the Castle Gardens, where Lisburn Castle once stood.

For a pleasant change, head to the charming seaside resort of Portrush, with sandy beaches and scenic coastal views. Sunbathe on Portrush Beach or White Rocks Beach during warm summers. Note that the region is fairly wet year-round, with mild winters.

Just east is the historic town of Bushmills, known for the Old Bushmills Distillery. Try the Irish whiskey variations at this famous 17th-century site, which is the oldest working distillery in Ireland. Take a guided tour of Hezlett House and learn about its former occupants from the 1600s. Another highlight here is Dunluce Castle.

Ride the Giant’s Causeway & Bushmills Railway to Giant’s Causeway, a fascinating coastal landmark comprising 40,000 basalt columns.

Continue east along the coast to reach Ballycastle, where you will find the elegant, whitewashed Ballintoy Church, the Ballycastle Museum in an 18th-century courthouse and the cliff-top ruins of Kinbane Castle.

Antrim is the northeasternmost of Northern Ireland’s six counties. Fly to Belfast International Airport in the capital city and get around in a rental car or by bus. Arrive by ferry from Fleetwood in England or Troon and Cairnryan in Scotland.

Switch between historic cities and quaint coastal towns and appreciate the gems of the jagged coast in County Antrim.

Popular cities in County Antrim

Belfast
Belfast
Known for Friendly people, Bars and Tours
The friendly capital of Northern Ireland has a fascinating history and is just an hour away from the country’s scenic Atlantic coastline.

Reasons to visit

  • Waterfront Hall
  • Queen's University of Belfast
  • Grand Opera House
Ballycastle
Ballycastle
Known for Friendly people, Sea and Ferries and boats

Reasons to visit

  • Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge
  • Ballintoy Harbour
  • Kinbane Castle
Giant\'s Causeway which includes a monument, general coastal views and heritage elements
Bushmills
Known for Bars, Historical and Castle
Try traditional Irish whiskey at the source, visit historic houses and wander along the tips of the 40,000 basalt columns decorating the shore.

Reasons to visit

  • Giant's Causeway
  • Dunluce Castle
  • Old Bushmills Distillery
Ballymena
Ballymena
Known for Small town, Spas and Sea

Reasons to visit

  • Glenarm Castle
  • Glenariff Forest Park
Portrush Beach featuring general coastal views, a bay or harbour and a coastal town
Portrush
Known for Friendly people, Sea and Beaches
Explore the scenic beaches and rocky cliffs of this quaint coastal resort. Bring the kids to the waterpark and laser tag facilities.

Reasons to visit

  • Portrush East Strand Beach
  • Portrush West Strand Beach