Antrim (town) Travel Guide
Explore the best things to do, places to stay, and where to eat in Antrim (town), Northern Ireland. Plan your perfect vacation with our comprehensive travel guide!
- Introduction to Antrim (Town)
- List of Places to Visit in Antrim (Town)
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Antrim (Town)
- Best Things to Do in Antrim (Town): Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Antrim (Town)
- Food and Drink Scene of Antrim (Town)
- Where to Stay in Antrim (Town): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Accommodations
- Hostels
- Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Antrim (Town): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Antrim (Town)
- Best Time to Visit Antrim (Town)
- Do’s and Don’ts of Antrim (Town)
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Antrim (Town): Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Antrim (Town)
- Where to Go Next from Antrim (Town): Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Antrim (Town)
Antrim (town) is the second-largest town in County Antrim, located in Northern Ireland. Known for its stunning natural attractions, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals, it has quickly become a popular destination for travelers seeking a unique experience in the United Kingdom.
List of Places to Visit in Antrim (Town)
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Antrim Castle Gardens – Visit the beautiful gardens of the former castle of the Earl of Antrim.
- Clotworthy Arts Centre - Gallery space and arts centre, housed in the restored 17th century Clotworthy House.
- Antrim Round Tower - Antrim’s only surviving tower, built around the 10th century.
Natural Attractions of Antrim (Town): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Lough Neagh - The largest freshwater lake in Northern Ireland and home to exceptional fishing spots.
- Belfast Lough Shoreline Walk - Enjoy breathtaking scenic views and take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline.
- Glenariff Forest Park - A hidden gem of Antrim (town), this park offers enchanting walking trails, forest drives, waterfalls and viewpoints.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Antrim (Town)
Antrim (town) boasts a vast network of hiking and biking trails offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Trails last from 2 miles to ten miles in length and occur through mountain terrain and forests.
Best Things to Do in Antrim (Town): Activities and Tours
- Ballycastle Beach - A popular spot for paddle boarding, kayaking and swimming.
- Game of Thrones Film Locations Tour - Take a tour of all the Game of Thrones film locations which occurred in County Antrim.
- Northern Ireland Breweries Day Tour - Indulge in unique beer tasting experiences in the local breweries and learn about Northern Ireland’s craft beer scene.
Week-Long Itinerary for Antrim (Town)
Day 1: Check-in and explore the beautiful town centre, take a walk down the shoreline of Lough Neagh.
Day 2-3: Indulge in outdoor activities such as cycling, kayaking, and hiking in Glenariff Forest Park.
Day 4: Visit Antrim Round Tower and Antrim Castle Gardens
Day 5: Take a tour of the Game of Thrones film locations tour, especially for the fans
Day 6: Take the Northern Ireland Breweries Day Tour
Day 7: Spend the day at Ballycastle Beach and reminisce in the peaceful ambiance of the place
Food and Drink Scene of Antrim (Town)
Must-Try Dishes
- Ulster Fry - The traditional breakfast in Northern Ireland bursting with hearty local flavors such as bacon, sausages, black pudding, and potato bread.
- Irish Stew - Made with potatoes, carrots, lamb, and locally sourced herbs and spices.
Local Beverages
- Guinness - The famous Irish beer, widely available throughout Antrim (town).
- Bushmills Whiskey - One of the oldest distilleries in the world, Bushmills offers a unique tour experience in Whiskey tasting.
Where to Stay in Antrim (Town): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Accommodations
- Maldron Hotel - Located minutes away from the town center, ideal place to stay for exploring the town.
- Dunsilly Hotel - A luxury hotel offering a relaxing stay, located near the Belfast International Airport.
Hostels
- Antrim Hostel - Ideal accommodation for backpackers or budget travelers, located near the town centre, close to the Antrim Castle Gardens.
Guesthouses
- Keef Halla Country House - A beautifully renovated 19th-century house, perfect for those looking for a place to feel at home in Antrim.
What to Buy in Antrim (Town): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Antrim Bobbins - Traditional Handmade Irish linen bobbin lace, popular in the town.
- Belleek Pottery - Popular ceramic product Handcrafted in Northern Ireland
Local Culture and Customs of Antrim (Town)
Antrim (town) has a fascinating local culture that’s deeply rooted in folklore and traditions. Visitors can experience this through the town’s music, dance, and traditional crafts, all of which are celebrated with numerous events throughout the year.
Best Time to Visit Antrim (Town)
The best times to visit Antrim (town) are during spring and summer when temperatures are mild and pleasant for outdoor activities. The most popular events happen during these months, particularly in July and August.
Do’s and Don’ts of Antrim (Town)
Do:
- Respect the local culture and customs, including religious sites
- Try out traditional dishes and local craft beers
- Indulge in outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and kayaking
Don’t:
- Drive through town without caution
- Disrespect the local culture and traditions
- Wander into unlit areas or leave valuables in public areas
Safety and Health
Safety in Antrim (Town)
Antrim (town) is a relatively safe town. However, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions such as avoiding unlit areas at night.
Health in Antrim (Town)
The town has several healthcare facilities, ranging from hospitals and clinics providing 24-hour care.
Getting to Antrim (Town): Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Antrim (Town)
- Belfast International Airport
- George Best Belfast City Airport
Bus Stations Near Antrim (Town)
- Antrim Bus Centre
- Lough Neagh Tours and Charters
Other Options
- Train Station - Antrim Railway Station
How to Get Around in Antrim (Town)
The public transportation system in Antrim (town) is efficient and covers most of the town. Other options include cycling and walking.
Where to Go Next from Antrim (Town): Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Belfast - The capital of Northern Ireland is just 20 minutes by car or train.
- Giant’s Causeway - Take a trip to Northern Ireland’s scenic landscape formed by 40,000 interlocking basalt columns created by volcanic eruptions.
Conclusion
Antrim (town) offers travelers a unique experience. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor activities, or cultural experiences, this town has something for everyone. Authentically Irish, Antrim is not only affordable but it is also beautiful and memorable!
