County Antrim Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby destinations in County Antrim, Northern Ireland.


Introduction to County Antrim

Located in Northern Ireland, County Antrim offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant city life. Known for its rugged coastline, scenic views, and world-renowned attractions, County Antrim is a must-visit destination in Northern Ireland.

List of Places to Visit in County Antrim

From culturally significant attractions to natural wonders and breathtaking views, County Antrim has something for everyone. Here is a list of the must-visit places in County Antrim:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Giants Causeway
  • Old Bushmills Distillery
  • Dunluce Castle
  • Murlough Bay
  • Glenariff Forest Park

Natural Attractions of County Antrim: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Rathlin Island
  • Dark Hedges
  • Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
  • Ballintoy Harbour
  • Slemish Mountain

Hiking/Biking Routes of County Antrim

County Antrim is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of hiking and biking opportunities. Here are some popular hiking and biking routes in County Antrim:

  • Causeway Coast Way
  • Antrim Hills Way
  • Moyle Way
  • Glenariff Forest Park

Best Things to Do in County Antrim: Activities and Tours

Whether you are traveling with family or friends, County Antrim has an array of activities and tours to choose from. Here are some of the best things to do in County Antrim:

  • Black Taxi Tour
  • Game of Thrones Tour
  • Sea Safari
  • Beach Horse Riding
  • Stand-up Paddleboarding

Week-Long Itinerary for County Antrim

For those who are planning a week-long trip to County Antrim, here is a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1: Giants Causeway and Bushmills Distillery
  • Day 2: Rathlin Island and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
  • Day 3: Dunluce Castle and Dark Hedges
  • Day 4: Murlough Bay and Glenariff Forest Park
  • Day 5: Slemish Mountain and Ballycastle Beach
  • Day 6: Belfast Castle and Titanic Museum
  • Day 7: Botanic Gardens and Ulster Museum

Food and Drink Scene of County Antrim

County Antrim has a diverse culinary scene, featuring traditional Irish dishes as well as international cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Irish Stew
  • Boxty
  • Ulster Fry
  • Soda Bread

Local Beverages

  • Guinness
  • Bushmills Whiskey
  • Belfast Blonde Ale

Where to Stay in County Antrim: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

County Antrim has a wide range of accommodations to choose from, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some top accommodation options in County Antrim:

  • Ashbourne Guest House
  • Ballygally Castle Hotel
  • Culloden Estate and Spa
  • O’Neill’s Guesthouse

What to Buy in County Antrim: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

County Antrim is known for its stunning landscapes and rich history, and there are plenty of souvenirs and local products to bring home. Here are some popular items to buy in County Antrim:

  • Claddagh Rings
  • Belleek Pottery
  • Irish Linen
  • Handmade Crafts

Local Culture and Customs of County Antrim

County Antrim has a strong cultural identity, and visitors can experience the unique customs and traditions of the local people. Here are some aspects of local culture worth exploring:

  • Traditional Irish Music
  • GAA Sports
  • St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations
  • Irish Language and Literature

Best Time to Visit County Antrim

The best time to visit County Antrim is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is mild and sunny. However, if you want to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to October.

Do’s and Don’ts of County Antrim

To make the most of your trip to County Antrim, keep these do’s and don’ts in mind:

Do:

  • Explore the natural wonders of County Antrim
  • Experience the local music and culture
  • Try Irish cuisine and beverages
  • Respect the local customs and traditions

Don’t:

  • Use offensive language or behavior towards the locals
  • Overlook the historic and cultural significance of the attractions
  • Take risks in natural or adventurous surroundings without proper guidance and equipment

Safety and Health

County Antrim is a safe place to travel, but it’s still important to be aware of potential risks and take necessary precautions. Here’s what you need to know about safety and health in County Antrim:

Safety in County Antrim

  • Petty crime can occur in tourist areas, so keep your valuables safe and secure
  • Follow local rules and regulations for water activities and outdoor adventures

Health in County Antrim

  • Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance before visiting
  • Tap water is safe to drink in County Antrim

Getting to County Antrim: Transportation Options and Logistics

County Antrim is easily accessible and well-connected to major cities in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Here are some transportation options and logistics to consider:

  • Belfast International Airport and George Best Belfast City Airport are both located within easy reach of County Antrim.
  • There are frequent bus services from Belfast to County Antrim and other nearby destinations.
  • Renting a car or bike is a great option for exploring the rural areas and scenic landscapes of County Antrim.

How to Get Around in County Antrim

Getting around County Antrim is relatively easy, with several options available:

  • Public transport including buses and trains are available.
  • Taxis and car rentals are also available.
  • Walking and cycling are perfect ways to explore County Antrim’s scenic areas.

Where to Go Next from County Antrim: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

County Antrim is an ideal base for exploring other nearby destinations, including:

  • Belfast
  • Derry
  • The Giant’s Causeway
  • The Ards Peninsula

Conclusion

County Antrim is a fascinating region with plenty of natural and cultural attractions to offer visitors. From the stunning coastline to the rich cultural heritage and vibrant cities, there is something for everyone in County Antrim. So pack your bags and start planning your trip to County Antrim today!

Carrickfergus Castle Carrickfergus Castle Bonamargy Friary, Ballycastle Bonamargy Friary, Ballycastle Giant's Causeway Giant's Causeway


    Antrim (town)
    Ballymena
    Ballymoney
    Bushmills
    Carrickfergus
    Cushendall
    Dunmurry
    Larne
    Newtownabbey
    Portrush
    Rathlin Island