The gardens were originally created by Sir John Clotworthy in 1603 and significantly expanded by Viscount Massereene later in the century.
A catastrophic fire in 1922 destroyed the main Antrim Castle, leaving only the gatehouse and portions of the foundation visible today.
The Long Canal, a centerpiece of the garden, remains one of the finest examples of 17th-century water engineering in Ireland.
The 'Mount' is a large, man-made earthen mound that offers an elevated vantage point over the entirety of the garden design.
The site houses a permanent exhibition regarding the history of the Massereene family and the impact of the 1922 fire.
The gardens were the location of the first major restoration project of its kind in Northern Ireland, utilizing historical surveys and original planting plans.
Antrim Castle Gardens is a 17th-century Anglo-Dutch water garden located on the site of the former Massereene family estate. The gardens span over 400 acres, featuring original features like the Long Canal, the Wilderness, and the Mount. Following a major restoration completed in 2012, the site now includes the Clotworthy House, which serves as a contemporary arts gallery and visitor center. Visitors can explore a network of ornamental paths, including the Yew Tree Walk and the Lady's Island. The site integrates formal garden design with woodland trails along the banks of the Six Mile Water river. A cafe is located within the Clotworthy House complex, offering views of the surrounding grounds.
The view from the top of the Mount looking down the full length of the Long Canal.
Follow the river path toward the Six Mile Water for quieter, less populated walking routes.
Visit the Clotworthy House information desk to pick up a map, as the garden layout is expansive and multi-layered.
Check the gallery schedule in advance if you are visiting specifically for a rotating art exhibition.
Do not overlook the smaller, hidden 'Wilderness' section, which many visitors skip in favor of the main formal lawns.
Grounds remain accessible daily throughout the year, though specific gallery and cafe facilities may operate on limited seasonal schedules.
Stick to designated footpaths to protect the restored landscape; dogs must be kept on a lead in formal garden areas.
