The walled garden was originally established in the 17th century to provide fruit and vegetables for the household.
The estate is situated within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on the Antrim Coast Road.
The family line of the Earls of Antrim traces its ancestry back to the ancient MacDonalds of the Isles.
The castle features a rare collection of 17th-century portraits and family heirlooms.
The Glenarm River runs directly through the estate, feeding into the Irish Sea.
The estate gardens were restored in the early 2000s based on historical records from the 1820s.
The 'Lime Kiln' on the estate is a remnant of the area's industrial past, where limestone was processed for export.
Glenarm Castle is the ancestral home of the Earls of Antrim, located on the North Antrim Coast in Northern Ireland. The estate features a 17th-century walled garden, which remains one of the oldest in Ireland. The castle building itself is a blend of original 17th-century foundations and 19th-century renovations. Visitors have access to extensive woodland walks along the Glenarm River. The site hosts various seasonal events, including the Tulip Festival and the Dalriada Festival. The estate remains a privately owned residence, with specific rooms and gardens open to the public during designated months. The grounds include a tea room, a shop, and a designated play area for children. The estate is part of a larger historical demesne that has been in the McDonnell family for over 400 years.
The central fountain within the Walled Garden, framed by the seasonal flower beds.
Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the woodland trails and garden paths comfortably.
Check the official event calendar before arriving, as private functions can restrict access to certain areas.
Plan your visit to allow time for the woodland walk, which takes longer than the formal gardens.
Do not attempt to enter private sections of the house not marked for public tours.
The estate operates on a seasonal basis; gardens and house tours are generally closed during the winter months.
Dress appropriately for variable coastal weather; stay on marked paths within the gardens.
