Antrim

Portrush

Dunluce Centre
Family entertainment centre. The North Antrim Coast, Turbo Tours - motion simulation thrill-ride, Earthquest - interactive nature trail, Tumble Town - adventure play centre. Viewing tower, shops, cafe. Wheelchair access, except tower.

Countryside Centre Portrush
Rock pool animals in touch tank. Exhibition, videos. Wheelchair access. Next to the fossil ammonites nature reserve at Lansdowne Crescent.

Dunluce Castle
This spectacular castlecrowned crag on the famous north Antrim coast was shaped when the sea cut deep into the land, exploiting cracks on either side of the rock. Dunluce Castle was originally occupied by the O'Donnells and was set to seige by the British in the 16th Century. They eventually signed an accord with the British in the name of peace. The dark hollow on the very right of the castle was where the kitchen used to be. One night during a storm, that part of the castle broke off and plunged into the sea, killing all the cooks and kitchenhands. Dunluce Castle is thought by many to be the most pisturesque and romantic of Irish castles.

Bushmills
Here at Bushmills we invite you to experience for yourself the craft and skills of making an Irish Single Malt Whiskey. During our guided tour you will discover the secrets of the special water from St Columb's Rill, the malted Irish barley, triple distillation in copper stills and ageing for long years in oak casks. Of course no visit would be complete without enjoying a complimentary glass of the final product, one of our famous Bushmills whiskeys.

Dunseverick Castle
Exhibts include Spanish Armada and local marine artefacts, World War I display, a steamboat gauge, recovered coal from Titanic, photographs, and fossil and mineral collections. Boat models, propellers. Thatched fisherman's cottage nearby. Picinic area.

Carrick-a-rede
This well-known precarious rope bridge that crosses an 80-foot deep chasm is a popular attraction for all ages, run by The National Trust. Just 20 minutes from the Giant's Causeway, it makes an excellent day-trip from Belfast. Visitors walk one mile along the coastal path before crossing the bridge to the peaceful island with fabulous views over to Scotland. The bridge is put up by local salmon fishermen every year. Tea-room available. Open April - september (weather permitting).

Ballycastle and Raithlin
From the RSPB West Light Platform there are spectacular views of Northern Irelands largest breeding seabird colony on the cliffs and offshore stacks. Best seen between May and July, when there are large numbers of Guillenots, Razorbills, Fulmars, Kittiwakes and Puffins. The West Light Viewpoint is 6Km from the harbour at Church bay. A minibus operates a service from the Harbour. A regular Ferry Service to Rathlin Island runs daily from Ballycastle. Access to the West light is only possible under the supervision of RSPB Staff.
Free admission.

Giants Causeway
This geological phenomenon renowned for its columns of layered basalt is a world heritage site and a fabulous day visit from Belfast (1 and a half hours drive). Owned by the conservation charity The National Trust, it sits in an area of outstanding natural beauty on the North Antrim Coast. Enjoy a guided tour June - August or enjoy walking the North Antrim coastal path, taking in the stones, all year round. A shop with gifts and Irish Crafts, and a restaurant for coffees, lunches and teas is open March - November.

Antirm Glens and Coastline

Ballymena

Ballymena Museum
Ballymena Museum is an enjoyable venue for all the family, located in the heart of Ballymena. The museum has a friendly and welcoming staff and our aim is to explore the cultural identity and heritage of the Borough. As well as a permanent display we have a lively programme of temporary exhibitions, guided walks and historical talks series in conjunction with Mid-Antrim Historical Group, a community history outreach programme and an historical enquiry service. The museum is one of only four out reach centres for PRONI. Facilities include: ramp to provide access for all our users, attended public toilets opposite museum, parking available nearby.

Carrickfergus castle
One of Irelands finest Medieval castles. Construction began in 1180 by John de Courcy, conqueror of East Ulster and remained garrisoned until 1928. Guided tour, information boards and models well as an audio visual display. Shop, cafe and wheelchair access throughout the grounds. Last admission 30 minutes before closing time.

Carrickfergus Historic walls
A walking tour lead by members of Carrickfergus Historical Society, based on the walls of the town, which will include historic buildings such as the Town Hall ( 1776) and the Norman St. Nicholas's Church.