In this post, we look at 10 of the best reasons to visit Antrim. This magical county in Northern Ireland is home to the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and many filming locations from Game of Thrones just to name a few of the highlights.
[expand title=”Click here for information about hiking in Antrim!“]
Choose Gentle or Moderate Hikes
10 different itineraries to suit all abilities
Terrain: Forest tracks and coastal trails. Rugged in parts. Regular asphalt hiking
Start anytime from Mar-Oct
https://www.hillwalktours.com/hiking-ireland/antrim-glens-coastline/
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1. Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge
Carrick-A-Rede island, with just one lone fisherman’s cottage, is connected to the mainland by a tiny rope bridge. It was built by fisherman almost 350 years and is maintained as a tourist attraction to this day.
It hangs 100ft above sea level and is definitely worth a visit on one of our Antrim walking tours – even if you are afraid of heights!
2. Bushmills Whiskey
The Bushmills distillery is the oldest distillery in the world, having been granted its license in 1608. In 2018, it will be celebrating 410 years in existence.
The whiskey produced there certainly tastes best when tasted in-house meaning that a visit to Bushmills is a must if you take a trip to Antrim.
3. Glenariff Forest Park
Glenariff Forest Park is home to several conservation-concerned species, such as red squirrels, Irish hares and hen harriers.
The park covers approx. 1,000 hectares including lakes, waterfalls, forests and outdoor recreational spaces. There are also several short walking trails which lead to spectacular views and glimpses of the aforementioned wildlife.
4. Ballycastle
The Auld Lammas Fair takes place in August every year. A wide variety of goods are sold here, such as livestock and local produce.
Ballycastle isn’t a place to missed owing to its beautiful surroundings – you can actually see the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland from the coast.
5. Rathlin Island
Take a ferry from Ballycastle to Rathlin Island – home to a large seal colony and many different sea birds.
You’ll also find a variety of different flora and fauna there, as well as learning about the history of the island.
For example, did you know that the Scottish king, Robert the Bruce, once took shelter on the island?
6. Dunluce Castle
The dramatic setting of Dunluce Castle, set on a cliff-top, mean that it is a very popular place for filming. For example, it has appeared in Game of Thrones.
Away from filming, the history of Dunluce Castle is fascinating with many power struggles raging since its construction in the 16th century.
7. Torr Head
Torr Head is made up of volcanic rocks and offers breath-taking and spectacular scenery of the coast and across to Scotland.
In the 1800s, it was an important strategic location for recording the routes of transatlantic ships.
8. Portrush
Fancy a game of golf? Why not chill out and try the world-famous golf course at Portrush?
Or better yet – relax on the beautiful beaches the town has to offer!
9. Runkerry Beach
Runkerry Beach – or Bushfoot Strand – is a crescent-shaped beach which is very popular with surfers and wildlife enthusiasts.
There are very strong riptides here, so it’s not for the faint-hearted!
10. Giant’s Causeway
No trip to Antrim would be complete without a visit to the Giant’s Causeway.
Unique hexagonal-shaped volcanic rocks are the main attraction here, as well as the spectacular walks and scenery.
[expand title=”Click here for some information on our Antrim hiking tours!“]
Choose Gentle or Moderate Hikes
10 different itineraries to suit all abilities
Terrain: Forest tracks and coastal trails. Rugged in parts. Regular asphalt hiking
Start anytime from Mar-Oct
https://www.hillwalktours.com/hiking-ireland/antrim-glens-coastline/
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