Northern Ireland is full of natural and man-made tourist attractions, including the Giant’s Causeway and Titanic Belfast. Not to mention the welcoming community and numerous annual events and festivals that draw visitors from all over the world. Historic castles, the majestic cliffs of the Causeway Coast and beautiful islands await exploration. Northern Ireland is a wonderful destination full of beauty and excitement, all waiting to be discovered in the most welcoming small towns.
Ballintoy, County Antrim
One of Northern Ireland’s most charming small towns, the village of Ballintoy, eight miles west of Ballycastle, is home to the beautiful Ballintoy Harbour, which can be reached through winding roads offering stunning views of the coast, islands and busy harbour. You can access it. Ballintoy boasts a rural Irish feel and is also a filming location for the TV series Game of Thrones, making it a one-stop spot for fans of the show and those seeking a truly Irish experience. Stop by local spots like Coffee & the Waves and enjoy the community.
The town is located near the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, first built by salmon fishermen in 1755, and sits 100 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, crossing a 20-metre-wide ditch that leads to rocky Carrick-a-Rede Island. It’s crossing. Rede. A stroll along the bridge offers coastal views and the chance to spot basking sharks, dolphins, toucans, kittiwakes, fulmars and more.
Castlewellan, County Down
The small town of Castlewellan is located near the Irish Sea, just under two hours from Dublin, and a few miles north of the Morne Mountains, home to some of Northern Ireland’s highest mountains. Also within the beautiful Castlewellan Forest Park is the Peace Maze, one of the world’s largest permanent hedge mazes, perfect for family walks and fun. The village center is the perfect place to learn more about the town’s history, visiting historic sites such as the Old Market House, built in 1764, and Castlewellan Castle, built from 1856 to 1858. is. There are also plenty of places to enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking. Archery along Lake Castlewellan and at Morne Archery Centre.
Cushendall, County Antrim
Cushendall is located at the foot of Mount Lrigesan, along the banks of the North Channel, part of the Causeway Coastal Route. Historic sites in the town include the former prison tower, Curfew Tower, built in 1817, and Reid Old Church. It’s also just 10 minutes from Glenariff Forest Park, perfect for forest exploration and hiking trips, and 30 minutes from Toll His Head, where you can take a scenic drive from Ballycastle to Cushendun. Those looking for a sense of community should stop by in time for his nine-day event in August, the Heart of the Glens Festival, featuring live music, parades, local cuisine, and more.
Cushendun Caves, featured in Game of Thrones, are also a must-see, where visitors can explore rock cavities and geological formations formed over millions of years. Glenariff is just 10 minutes from Cushendall and is connected by the Red Arch Tunnel, located just below the ruins of Red Bay Castle on the Causeway Coastal Route.
Rostrevor, County Down
It offers views of the Morne Mountains with the town of Rostrevor in the background, just 25 minutes from the town of Castlewellan. The town is located on the shores of Lough Carlingford and has easy access to the towering summit of Slieve Martin. There are several places where you can enjoy an afternoon walk, including Rostaver Forest, Kilbroney Park with its ‘Big Stone’, and the Narnia Trail, an area that inspired author CS Lewis. Historic spots in town include St. Broner’s 6th century church, the Bell and Giant Murphy’s tomb, and the Ross of the Shore monument, built in 1826. Travelers can also take scenic drives around the Cooley Peninsula or hike into beautiful landscapes. Enjoy the views from Kodak Corner and a magical stroll along Fairy Glen Walk, said to be home to fairies.
Ballygally, County Antrim
Ballygally is approximately 30 minutes from Cushendore, home to the scenic, sandy Ballygally Beach, located on the Causeway Coast Route. Just minutes from the beach, Ballygally Castle was built in his 17th century and overlooks Ballygally Bay. Today, it is known as one of the best hotels in England, featuring period rooms and architecture.
Travelers can also enjoy a trip to Carnfannock Country Park, which offers woodland, colorful gardens, walking trails and views of the Antrim coast and North Channel. Northern Ireland’s most haunted house is said to be Cairndoo House, just five minutes from town. Built in the 1870s, the mansion operated as a hospital from 1947 to 1986, and since then there have been numerous ghost sightings within the castle grounds, which are open to the public.
Belleek, County Fermanagh
Bellik is a charming village famous for its porcelain production, so the Bellik Pottery Visitor Center is a must-see. The center takes you back in time, with a museum displaying pottery dating back to 1857, a charming tearoom and views overlooking the River Arne, where it meets the Atlantic Ocean. This is a collector’s mecca for intricate handcrafted pieces that tell the story of Irish culture and history. With cultural attractions such as the promenade along the River Erne and Irish pubs such as The Fiddlestone and The Black Cat Cove, the town’s natural beauty never fails to impress visitors.
Donaghadee, County Down
Donaghadee is located south of Belfast on the north-east coast of the Ards Peninsula. One of the most popular attractions is Donaghadee Mott, a moat built by the Anglo-Normans in the 12th century and home to Powderhouse Castle, built in 1821. There is also a Heritage Walk overlooking the promenade and commons along the harbour, and historic buildings such as the Isle of Man and Manor House, Presbyterian and Methodist churches, and the parish church. Home to Donaghadee Lighthouse and Scotland’s closest harbour, Donaghadee Harbor also offers sailing, boating and fishing opportunities. There are also several annual events such as Carols by Candlelight, the Open Golf Competition, and the Artisan Market.
Enjoy your trip to Northern Ireland!
From the dramatic sea cliffs of the Causeway coastline to historic castles and local pubs, adventure awaits in Northern Ireland’s small towns. From picturesque Ballintoy Harbor near the Giant’s Causeway to fairytale-like Castlewellan Castle, Ireland offers endless opportunities for adventure, with an array of local pubs, festivals and events for visitors. It integrates into the community and creates a new feeling. Home and excitement all in one.