Larne Travel Guide

Larne, a hidden gem in Northern Ireland, offers cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, delicious local food and drink, accommodations, safety, and transportation options to make your trip to Larne unforgettable.


Introduction to Larne

Larne, a small town situated on the east coast of Northern Ireland in County Antrim, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. The town has a rich history dating back to the Vikings and has been a busy port for centuries. It may not be as popular as other Northern Irish destinations such as Belfast, but it offers a unique experience with its stunning coastline and impressive geological features.

List of Places to Visit in Larne

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Larne Museum and Arts Centre: The museum and arts centre chronicles the history of Larne from ancient times to the present day. It also showcases artworks from local artists.

  • Chaine Memorial Tower: The Chaine Memorial Tower was built to honour one of Larne’s most famous residents, James Chaine. A businessman who was instrumental in the development of Larne as a port town, the tower is a great place to learn more about the town’s maritime history.

  • Glenarm Castle: Just a few miles outside of Larne, Glenarm Castle is a beautiful estate that has been in the same family for over 400 years. The castle and grounds are open to the public during certain times of the year.

Natural Attractions of Larne: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Gobbins: The Gobbins coastal walk is a stunning path that takes you right by the edge of the sea. Built over 100 years ago, the path is a testament to engineering and offers stunning views of the ocean.

  • Cairndhu Golf Club: A beautiful golf course that offers stunning views of the coastline, Cairndhu is a must-see for any golf enthusiast, or anyone who just wants to take a stroll and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

  • Larne Harbour: As one of the busiest ports in Northern Ireland, Larne Harbour is a great spot to watch the boats come in and out. There are also several restaurants and cafes in the area if you want to grab a bite to eat.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Larne

  • Causeway Coast Way: The Causeway Coast Way is a 33km walking route that takes you from Ballycastle to Portstewart. The walk takes you through some of Northern Ireland’s most stunning scenery, including the Giant’s Causeway.

  • Sallagh Braes: A beautiful hill walk with stunning views of the sea, the Sallagh Braes walk is a great option for those who want to get out into nature.

Best Things to Do in Larne: Activities and Tours

  • Sea Fishing: There are several charter boats available in Larne for fishing enthusiasts. The boats are fully equipped with all the necessary gear and can take you to some of the best fishing spots around.

  • Horse Riding: There are several horse riding stables around Larne that offer guided tours through the beautiful countryside.

  • Kayaking and Canoeing: There are several rental companies around Larne that offer kayak and canoe rentals. This is a great way to explore the coastline and its hidden coves and beaches.

Week-Long Itinerary for Larne

Day 1: Visit Larne Museum and Arts Centre and Chaine Memorial Tower.

Day 2: Take a stroll along The Gobbins coastal walk in the morning. In the afternoon, visit Glenarm Castle.

Day 3: Spend the day exploring the beautiful Sallagh Braes walk.

Day 4: Try your hand at sea fishing with one of the charter boats in Larne.

Day 5: Take a guided horseback tour through the beautiful countryside.

Day 6: Rent a kayak or canoe and explore the coastline.

Day 7: Visit Cairndhu Golf Club in the morning, and spend the afternoon watching the boats come in and out of Larne Harbour.

Food and Drink Scene of Larne

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ulster Fry: A hearty breakfast consisting of bacon, eggs, sausages, black pudding, and soda bread.

  • Potato Bread: A potato-based bread that is a Northern Irish specialty.

  • Cream of Vegetable Soup: A delicious and warming soup made from local vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Bushmills Irish Whiskey: The world-renowned whiskey is produced just a few miles from Larne and is a must-try for anyone visiting the area.

  • Carrickfergus Ale: A local beer that is brewed in a nearby town, Carrickfergus Ale is a great choice for those who want to try a local craft beer.

Where to Stay in Larne: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Curran Court Hotel: A historic hotel in the centre of town that offers comfortable rooms and great food.

  • Larne Harbour Lodge: A guesthouse located right on the waterfront, the Larne Harbour Lodge offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.

  • Magheramore Court Hotel: A hotel located just outside of town that offers stunning views of the sea.

What to Buy in Larne: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Crafts: There are several local artisans who craft beautiful items such as pottery and textiles.

  • Bushmills Whiskey: A bottle of Bushmills Irish Whiskey is a great souvenir to bring home to remember your trip to Northern Ireland.

Local Culture and Customs of Larne

Northern Irish people are typically friendly and very welcoming to visitors. Tipping is customary in restaurants, and it is also polite to say “please” and “thank you”.

Best Time to Visit Larne

The best time to visit Larne is between May and September, when the weather is milder and the days are longer. However, Northern Ireland’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s best to bring rain gear regardless of when you visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Larne

Do:

  • Do explore the stunning coastline and countryside.

  • Do try the local food and drink.

  • Do visit the historical sites and museums.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to bring rain gear.

  • Don’t be afraid to ask the locals for recommendations and directions.

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Larne

Larne is a safe place to visit, with low levels of crime. However, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, such as not leaving valuables in sight in your car.

Health in Larne

The tap water in Northern Ireland is safe to drink, and there are several pharmacies in Larne in case you need over-the-counter medications.

Getting to Larne: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Larne

The nearest airport to Larne is Belfast International Airport, which is approximately 30 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Larne

Larne is connected to Belfast and other Northern Irish cities via regular bus services.

Other Options

If you have your own vehicle, Larne is easily accessible via the A8 motorway, which runs from Belfast.

How to Get Around in Larne

The best way to get around Larne is by car or bicycle. There are several car rental services available in town, and bicycles can be rented from several local shops.

Where to Go Next from Larne: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Giant’s Causeway: One of Northern Ireland’s most famous landmarks, the Giant’s Causeway is just a short drive from Larne.

  • Belfast: Northern Ireland’s capital city, Belfast is just a 30-minute drive from Larne and offers a vibrant cultural scene.

  • Carrickfergus: A nearby town with a rich history, Carrickfergus is home to several historical sites, including a medieval castle.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventures, or just want to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery, Larne has something to offer everyone. From its stunning coastline to its impressive geological features, this small town is truly a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Larne Harbour Larne Harbour Ferries shuttle between Larne and Scotland: that's Mull of Kintyre in the background Ferries shuttle between Larne and Scotland: that's Mull of Kintyre in the background The Gobbins walkway The Gobbins walkway