Things to do in Antrim, County Antrim
- The town's name derives from the Irish 'Aontroim', which translates to 'Lone Ridge' or 'Solitary Ridge'.
- Antrim is situated at the northern end of Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in the United Kingdom by surface area.
- The town was a significant industrial center in the 19th century, particularly known for its extensive linen bleaching and weaving operations.
- The 17th-century Antrim Castle was destroyed by a major fire in 1922, leaving only the gatehouse and garden structures intact.
About Antrim, County Antrim
Located on the banks of the Six Mile Water near the shores of Lough Neagh, Antrim is a historic market town that serves as a central hub in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. The town is defined by its layered history, ranging from medieval fortifications like the Antrim Motte to the meticulously restored 17th-century landscapes of Antrim Castle Gardens. Visitors can explore the architectural remnants of the past at the Barbican Gate Lodge or find recreation at the Antrim Marina. The town functions as a significant point of interest for those exploring the wider Lough Neagh region.
Highlights of Antrim, County Antrim
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Places of interest
Explore the expansive 17th-century gardens that feature ornate ponds, long-standing trees, and historic woodland paths.
Beaches and ponds
Access the shores of Lough Neagh for sailing, fishing, and scenic walks along the water's edge.
Historical places
View this distinct, castle-style gatehouse which serves as an iconic architectural entrance to the grounds.
Historical places
Climb the site of this early medieval defensive earthwork for a perspective on the town's early strategic history.
Parks
Walk through this restored Victorian-era garden space designed for leisure and aesthetic botanical display.
Parks
Visit this public park space for its landscaped gardens and central decorative water feature.
Top things to do in Antrim, County Antrim
The 40 highest-rated places in Antrim, County Antrim, ranked by travellers.
1
Places of interest
Antrim Castle Gardens is a 17th-century Anglo-Dutch water garden located on the site of the former Massereene family est...
2
Beaches and ponds
Ballyronan Marina is located on the northwestern shores of Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in the United Kingdo...
3
Zoos
World of Owls is Northern Ireland's only dedicated owl, eagle, and vulture conservation and education center. Located wi...
4
Museums
5
Parks
6
Natural attractions
7
Venues
8
Historical places
9
Historical places
10
Historical places
11
Temples
12
Beaches and ponds
13
Historical places
14
Temples
15
Natural attractions
16
Temples
17
Places of interest
18
Historical places
19
Temples
20
Temples
21
Parks
22
Temples
23
Places of interest
24
Historical places
25
Places of interest
26
Temples
27
Temples
28
Temples
29
Temples
30
Temples
Explore by category
Jump straight to what you're into.
Antrim, County Antrim on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Antrim, County Antrim
May to September, when the climate is mildest and the gardens are in full bloom.
1-2 days, providing enough time to explore the town center, the Lough shore, and the surrounding gardens.
The town center is compact and walkable, though a car is recommended for reaching the Lough Neagh shore and nearby areas.
Stay in the town center for access to amenities and transit links, or seek out guesthouses near the Lough Neagh shore for a quieter environment.
Mid-range; accommodation and dining options are generally accessible for the average traveller.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 40 curated attractions in and around Antrim, County Antrim, ranked by traveller ratings.
Antrim Castle Gardens is the highest-rated place to visit in Antrim, County Antrim right now.
The largest category is temples, with 17 places to explore.
Travellers also explore London, North Kensington, Manchester.
Explore more of United Kingdom
Other cities ranked by number of curated places.
