Activities
Cairnview is an ideal starting point for discovering Northern Ireland and the numerous attractions right on our doorstep. You’ll find plenty of local highlights nearby, detailed below!
Take a scenic drive along the renowned Antrim Coast Road, and explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Giant's Causeway. Alternatively, spend a day in Belfast, the historic city that’s home to the Titanic.
Glenarm Castle is a historic estate located in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. It is a private residence that has been in the possession of the Earls of Antrim for centuries. The castle is situated in the picturesque village of Glenarm, near the Antrim Coast, and it has a rich history and stunning grounds.Although Glenarm Castle is a private residence, parts of the estate, particularly the gardens, are open to the public. The grounds are often used for events, such as weddings, tours, and garden festivals. Additionally, the castle hosts various cultural and outdoor events, including art exhibitions and live performances, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The estate has been passed down through the generations and remains an important part of Northern Ireland's heritage. If you're visiting Northern Ireland and are interested in historic homes, scenic views, and stunning gardens, Glenarm Castle is definitely worth a visit. Glenarm Castle is located a 13 minute drive from the bed and breakfast.
Carnlough Bay, located on the Antrim Coast of Northern Ireland, is a beautiful, tranquil spot known for its stunning natural scenery. Boat tours in the area offer visitors a unique way to experience the bay and its surrounding coastline, as well as learn about its history and wildlife. Board Curiosity Boat Tours at the harbour steps, where Arya Stark from hit series Game of Thrones, went for a dip. At Curiosity they have a maximum of 12 passengers per boat trip and have no minimum amount. Each trip lasts approximately 45 minutes but if requested on booking it can be extended.
Carnfunnock Family Fun Zone is a thrilling destination nestled within Carnfunnock Country Park, located near Ballygally along the stunning Antrim Coast in Northern Ireland. Perfect for families and visitors of all ages, this vibrant attraction offers a variety of activities that blend outdoor adventure with engaging, interactive fun. The Fun Zone features an exciting lineup of attractions, including a Miniature Railway, an 18-hole Mini Golf course, a Bouncy Castle, a Carousel, Walk on Water (WOW) Balls, Bungee Trampolines, and remote-controlled boats and trucks. Fun fact: The Carnfunnock Family Fun Zone is proudly managed by us! Feel free to reach out for more information!
Cairndhu Golf Club is a beautiful 18-hole, par 69 golf course located on the scenic Antrim Coast in Northern Ireland, near the town of Larne. The club offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline, with the course set against a backdrop of rolling hills and the Irish Sea. Known for its challenging layout and well-maintained fairways, Cairndhu Golf Club provides a memorable experience for golfers of all skill levels. The course itself is designed to make the most of the natural landscape, featuring undulating terrain, strategically placed bunkers, and well-designed water hazards. Cairndhu is often regarded as one of the most picturesque golf courses in Northern Ireland, offering a combination of natural beauty and golfing challenge. In addition to the course, Cairndhu Golf Club has a welcoming clubhouse where visitors can relax and enjoy meals or drinks while taking in the stunning views. The club offers membership options, as well as facilities for visitors and casual golfers looking to experience the course. It’s a great spot for both seasoned golfers and newcomers to the sport, with a friendly and inviting atmosphere. If you're visiting the area or looking for a challenging round of golf, Cairndhu Golf Club is definitely worth a visit.
The Whitehead Railway Museum, located in the charming seaside town of Whitehead, Northern Ireland, is a fascinating destination for train enthusiasts and history lovers alike. Housed in a former railway station building, the museum showcases the rich history of the railway industry in Northern Ireland, particularly focusing on the development of the Belfast and Northern Counties Railway. One of the museum's standout features is its impressive collection of historic locomotives, carriages, and other railway artifacts. Visitors can explore a variety of restored steam engines, as well as other types of rolling stock, and learn about their significance in the development of transportation in the region. Many of the exhibits are housed in the museum’s large, well-preserved railway sheds, giving visitors a chance to get up close to these fascinating pieces of history. The museum also offers interactive displays, giving insight into how trains were operated in the past and how the railway system helped shape the local economy and communities. There are often live demonstrations, including train rides on vintage railcars, making it a fun and educational experience for all ages. Additionally, the museum hosts special events throughout the year, such as heritage train rides and family-friendly activities, which further enrich the experience for visitors. Located just a short distance from Belfast, the Whitehead Railway Museum offers a unique glimpse into the past and provides an excellent opportunity to experience the charm of vintage rail travel in a picturesque coastal setting.
The Gobbins is a stunning coastal walkway located along the Antrim Coast in Northern Ireland, near the village of Ballygally. It is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, scenic views, and unique coastal features, making it one of the most breathtaking natural attractions in the region. The Gobbins Walkway is a series of footpaths and bridges that cling to the cliffs, offering visitors a thrilling experience as they navigate through tunnels, across suspension bridges, and along narrow paths with spectacular views of the sea and rugged coastline. The walkway was originally built in 1902 to provide access to the area's scenic beauty and was an important part of the local tourism during the early 20th century. After being closed for many years, it was fully restored and reopened in 2015, providing a safe and modern way to experience this remarkable part of the coast. The Gobbins offers visitors the chance to explore dramatic coastal landscapes, with abundant wildlife, including seabirds and marine life, and views of the nearby Rathlin Island and the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland on clear days. The path takes you along cliffs that rise sharply from the sea, with the sound of crashing waves and the scent of sea air adding to the experience. Guided tours are available, providing insights into the history of the Gobbins, the geology of the area, and the local flora and fauna. The experience is both adventurous and educational, making it an ideal outing for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone seeking to immerse themselves in Northern Ireland's stunning coastal scenery. The Gobbins is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Antrim Coast and a memorable way to connect with the beauty of the Irish Sea.
The Giant's Causeway is one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic and awe-inspiring natural landmarks, located along the rugged Antrim Coast. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous geological wonders in the world, known for its unique, hexagonal basalt columns that stretch into the Atlantic Ocean. The causeway was formed around 60 million years ago as a result of volcanic activity. When molten lava cooled and contracted, it formed the distinctive, mostly hexagonal shapes of the columns, which vary in size and height. There are about 40,000 of these columns, some standing up to 12 meters (about 39 feet) tall, creating a surreal and striking landscape. Legend has it that the causeway was built by the giant Finn McCool, a hero in Irish mythology, to create a pathway to Scotland so he could battle the Scottish giant, Benandonner. The story adds a layer of mystique to the site, with the formation itself often associated with the mythical tale. Visitors to the Giant's Causeway can explore the site via a network of well-maintained paths, and the iconic columns can be seen up close, creating a remarkable experience for anyone visiting. The area is also surrounded by breathtaking coastal views, adding to its allure. In addition to the columns, the surrounding landscape features cliffs, beaches, and rich plant and animal life, making it a fantastic spot for nature lovers. The Giant's Causeway is also home to the Visitor Centre, which offers informative exhibits about the history, geology, and folklore of the site. Interactive displays and multimedia presentations help explain how the causeway was formed and its cultural significance. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or someone looking to experience Northern Ireland's stunning landscapes, the Giant's Causeway is a must-visit destination that provides a unique blend of natural beauty, mythology, and geological wonder.
Carrickfergus Castle is a striking and historically significant fortress located in the town of Carrickfergus, just north of Belfast on the Antrim Coast in Northern Ireland. One of the best-preserved medieval castles in Ireland, it dates back to the late 12th century and has played a key role in the history of the region for over 800 years. The castle was built by John de Courcy, a Norman knight, in 1177 and was strategically positioned on the shores of Belfast Lough. Its location allowed it to control access to the waterway, making it a crucial military and trading site throughout its history. The castle's strong defensive features include thick stone walls, a large keep, a moat, and a drawbridge, making it a formidable fortress. Over the centuries, Carrickfergus Castle has witnessed many significant events. It has been a royal residence, a military stronghold, and a symbol of power for various rulers, including the English and later the Scots. The castle was involved in key battles, sieges, and political struggles, including during the Irish rebellion of the 17th century. It was also the site of the surrender of the Irish parliamentarian army in 1649 to the English. Today, Carrickfergus Castle is open to the public and offers a fascinating glimpse into Northern Ireland's history. Visitors can explore its well-preserved rooms, including the Great Hall and various battlements. The castle also houses a museum with exhibits on its history, as well as artifacts from the medieval period. From the castle's towers, visitors are treated to stunning views of Belfast Lough, the Mourne Mountains, and the surrounding town. Carrickfergus Castle is not only a symbol of Northern Ireland's medieval past but also an impressive architectural marvel. It stands as a testament to the region’s rich history and a must-see for anyone visiting the area.
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Discover NI is the official organisation responsible for promoting tourism in Northern Ireland. Its mission is to highlight the region’s unique attractions, natural beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant experiences to both domestic and international visitors. The organisation plays a vital role in developing and marketing Northern Ireland as a top tourist destination. This includes promoting key landmarks like the Giant's Causeway, Carrickfergus Castle, the Mourne Mountains, the Dark Hedges, and the UNESCO-listed, vibrant city of Belfast, which is known for its Titanic history. Discover NI also highlights Northern Ireland’s rich cultural offerings, such as its music, festivals, food and drink, and the tradition of storytelling. In addition to promoting well-known attractions, Tourism NI also encourages visitors to explore the lesser-known gems of Northern Ireland, including picturesque towns, stunning coastal routes, and charming rural areas. The organisation provides resources for tourists, including detailed travel guides, itineraries, and event listings, as well as supporting local businesses and tourism operators. Tourism NI also collaborates with international partners to attend trade shows, fairs, and other promotional events to further boost the region’s presence in the global tourism market. Its efforts have helped Northern Ireland grow as a popular destination for travelers looking for adventure, history, scenic beauty, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you're interested in exploring historic sites, enjoying outdoor activities, or sampling local cuisine, Tourism NI offers all the information needed to help plan a memorable visit to Northern Ireland.