Things to see and do County Antrim

The castle of Carrickfergus is very impressive given the port and one of its first functions is well understood: defend the small town against the invaders. Despite 750 years of various military occupations, the building still dominates the horizon and watches at the entrance to Belfast Lough. It is remarkably well preserved, at least from construction in the th and th centuries. Some exterior walls and the polychrome échauguettes of the XIV, but nothing is safe, and other very old parts would have collapsed in the sea.
The central dungeon was erected in 1177 by Jean de Courcy (30 m high, thick walls between 5 and 3 m) after the Ulster Norman invasion. The fortifications were built between 1225 and 1250. The Norman and then English occupations succeeded. In the th century, Carrickfergus was the only place in Northern Ireland where English was spoken. The only access to the castle is the bridge and a visitor centre is right on the right. Models stored on the course help to imagine the living between the walls during the visit.

This original work, created in 1999 by local artist John Kindness to mark the regeneration of the Lagan River (previously too polluted for fish to swim in), features a 10-meter-long salmon made of more or less blue ceramic and engraved with text telling the story of Belfast. Standing on the edge of the Lagan River, not far from the Albert Memorial Clock and the Customs House, the "big fish" fits perfectly into the skyline of new Belfast. A must-see if you're ever in the area.

Pavarotti made his debut there, Van Morrison recorded a live album in 1984 and Sarah Bernhardt, Orson Welles, Laurel and Hardy had already performed there long before... Grand Opera House, the largest theater in Northern Ireland, has been a fixture on the Belfast cultural scene since 1895. The building is a mixture of Victorian style with its red bricks and oriental influenced decorative elements with its minarets (English architect Frank Matcham). The theater hosts the greatest shows (ballets, operas, musicals ...).

In the heart of the botanical garden, the Ulster Museum is a superb museum not to be missed. Although walking through the museum is a bit like trying to find your way through a maze, it is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in Northern Ireland's past, in all its extraordinary diversity and richness. Glass and steel walkways allow visitors to move around the central atrium and to view some of the exhibits, as well as the museum from different angles and dimensions depending on the location and the floor they are on. Collections include archaeological pieces from the Stone Age to the late Middle Ages, Irish paintings from the 17th to the 20th century, a natural history gallery with many stuffed animals, objects from the world's cultures... The fossil of the dinosaur Edmontosaurus is undoubtedly a masterpiece, the mummy of Princess Takabuti of Thebes (the first mummy to be exhibited to the public outside of Egypt in 1835), 2,500 years old, is also a must-see and fits into the theme of life and death in ancient Egypt. The section on the Troubles will fascinate anyone who wants to know more about this terrible period. It will also prevent you from making the slightest mistake in discussing the subject during your stay. The "stop and think" panels are very well laid out and allow questions to be raised and debates to be launched. This part is organised in chronological order and offers a new vision of the conflict, different from the one relayed by the media.

The Ulster Museum is a lively and interactive museum, full of re-enactments and videos, and with many dynamic scenographies. Everyone can find an interest, a subject that fascinates them, whether it be history, art or science, and one can easily spend several hours there. One can easily spend several hours there. One can move from one era, field and century to another, like a journey through time. Everything about Northern Ireland is brought together in one place and the bridges between the subjects are particularly pleasing. After discovering the history of the country in the first floors, we discover Northern Ireland and its significant events in painting through the paintings of great masters of the country. This is a great museum to do with children, as each part of the museum has a specially designed room where they can handle objects, experiment and have fun.

Located in the heart of West Belfast, Colin Glen Forest Park is the city's green lung (100 ha), comprising woodland and meadow, waterfalls and ponds set around a river and undulating ground rich in biodiversity. Small paths lead to both sides, with explanations on the vegetation, birds and fauna related to a wet environment) along the way. Legends and myths are rooted in these woods along the river. An interesting idea for a walk with children.

The current Anglican cathedral replaced the old building, which dated from 1776 and was destroyed. The reconstruction took place in several stages, from 1899 until 2007, when a stainless steel spire was added to the bell tower. Meanwhile a Celtic cross (the largest in Ireland) was incorporated into the pediment and dedicated to the victims of the First World War. It is also the burial place of the Unionist Edward Carson (1854-1935), one of those who worked for peace. The monument is in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter and gave it its name.

Located below Cave Hill, Belfast Castle was built in 1870 by the third Marquess of Donegall in the style of the Scottish barons' houses. It also offers a splendid view on the city and the lake of Belfast by its height (100 m above the sea). The Shaftesburye family, thanks to a marriage, then inherited the site which was offered to the city in 1934. In Italian Renaissance style, it has a magnificent exterior spiral staircase where newlyweds now come to have their picture taken.

Coiste organizes "political" tours of West Belfast's Republican neighborhoods by former Republican political prisoner guides. Many tours. Falls Road Mural Tour, to see the Falls Road murals. The Ballymurphy Story: an IRA stronghold during the conflict in which the population actively supported the IRA, a very personal tour by a guide who grew up in this neighborhood. Milltown Cemetery: the cemetery where all the great figures in the history of Irish Republicanism are buried. City Cemetery: another place where many heroes of the republican cause have found their final resting place. United Irishmen: a visit that looks back at the 1798 revolt of the United Irishmen Society for Irish independence. This society gave birth to Irish Republicanism as we know it today.

Another joint tour with a loyalist organization in Shankill Road. This tour involves 1.5 hours in the Falls Road area with a Republican guide and 1.5 hours in the Shankill area with a Loyalist guide. This is a unique opportunity to hear two versions of the recent conflict from people who were actively involved. These tours connect history and personal stories. The guides do not offer "the truth" about the events, but simply their view. Coiste Irish Political Tours is a social enterprise that works to defend the rights and reintegrate former political prisoners.

An open-top bus that takes you on a 90-minute, 8 km tour of the city, taking in the Titanic Quarter, Stormont, Shankill and Falls Road, Queen's Quarter and Clifton Street. Visitors can hop on and off the bus as they please to better appreciate the different sites and neighborhoods. During the journey, a guide tells you the history of the city through a microphone, with anecdotes, some funny (it seems, but you have to understand the Irish accent and humor for that!) and some not so funny.

Just 20 minutes from the city center is this unspoiled and protected natural area with its caves and cliffs, its biodiversity and prehistoric sites, its circular fort and its hill that is said to resemble Napoleon's nose! Cave Hill is 368 meters high and, on a clear day, it is possible to see the Mourne Mountains, Strangford Lough and the important buildings of Belfast. For walks, there are signposts from the castle parking lot. It is possible to walk to the zoo, the castle and Cave Hill.

The Belfast Botanic Gardens are a true institution and have existed since 1828. They are the result of a Victorian passion for horticulture and particularly exotic plants, with large beds of green herbs ideal for families and students who regularly come to walk around. On site: large majestic trees, a labyrinth of roses, landscaped areas to stroll while enjoying nature ... Outdoor concerts are also organized. You can also visit the Palm House of 1839, which is the bold work for the time of Charles Lanyon and Richard Turner. It is an imposing greenhouse of cast iron and glass with a magnificent dome of curved glass under which tropical plants live. It has a charming old-fashioned feel to it, and inside the plants radiate in a most pleasingly organized jumble. You can also come and see Tropical Ravine, a smaller greenhouse with a simple design, carefully preserving a collection of old varieties of plants (lilies, orchids, banana trees...) that you can discover from an elevated walkway. The Tropical Ravine was recently completely restored and offers new educational panels on flowers and fruits, ideal for children. A walk in the botanical gardens is a must in Belfast, you will spend a great time among the plants. In the spring, the tulips shine by hundreds, coloring the flowerbeds in the most beautiful way.

Here, we take you on a tour of Queen's Island, home to the shipyards that built, among others, the legendary Titanic. The tour includes a visit to the Harland & Wolff cranes, a tour of the buildings where the architects drew up the plans for the Titanic, a chance to walk on the famous Titanic's Dock, as well as a visit to the Pump House and a film (and a half-hour break for lunch at the Pump House café; please note that this is not included in the price).

Gallery of contemporary photography with a quality program. The management wishes to promote exhibitions on topical, political or social issues, in a committed approach that goes back to its origins. Indeed, the gallery was founded in 1983 by local photographers to represent the conflicts experienced in Belfast from the inside, and not from the media point of view. Today, it features both renowned international artists and art students. Over half a million photographs are archived here.

Located right next to the cathedral, this tiny museum commemorates the role of the cities of Belfast and Derry in the First and Second World Wars. There are archival images to view on screens, following an interactive index that categorizes them by theme. An important section is also dedicated to the American army, which came to help the Irish. Don't hesitate to talk to the museum staff who will be happy to explain it to you. Events are also regularly organized here.

Looking for authenticity? This artisan micro-brewery, located 20 minutes from the center of Belfast, carefully crafts remarkable beers, a far cry from the world's big brewers. You'll be able to buy some on the spot, after a full 45-minute tour of the history of this first independent brewery in Ireland, which opened 40 years ago, and the different brewing techniques involved. A good idea, as Hilden beer is rarely found in the shops. A little extra at the end of the visit: a tasting of 3 beers of your choice from the 8 on offer!

The Giant's Ring Dolmen is a tomb composed of five upright stones and one large corner stone, in the center of a vast circle of almost perfect earthwork and about 200 meters in diameter. "The Giant's Ring is believed to date from the Neolithic period, around 2700 BC.

Giant's Ring Trail : it's a marked trail of about 1h30 (5 km) which starts from the Minnowburn parking lot, not far from Shaw's bridge, and which leads you to the dolmen with spectacular views over the Lagan valley. Not to be missed to stretch your legs.

Music, theater, dance and art, Belfast's Metropolitan Art Centre (MAC) is a year-round arts venue in Northern Ireland's capital. It houses two performance spaces, three art galleries, a rehearsal space and a dance studio... Artists, both local and international, have here a place of expression and amateurs are delighted. The program, very varied and provided, can be consulted on line. The contemporary art exhibitions can be a bit surprising!

If you are interested in gastronomy, this agency may well interest you. It offers visits on the theme of food, terroir, whiskey, gin and beer. Everything you need to know to get the most out of Northern Ireland's gastronomy and specialities. They are best known for their 4-hour Belfast Food Tour, a full gastronomic tour that has already won awards and will take you to discover local producers at St George's Market, traditional pubs and good restaurants in the city. On the programme, you will drink and eat more than 25 of the best local dishes and drinks. They even have a French guide!

It is the seat of the government of Northern Ireland. This huge white building in neoclassical style was erected in 1932 according to the plans of Sir Arnold Thornely, who was knighted by George V for his architectural talents. The beautiful symmetry of the building and its six entrance columns beautifully dominate the vast, freely accessible park. Visits are possible to discover the entrails of this place with an eventful history, a pillar of reconciliation between Republicans and Protestants.

It is Belfast's largest Gaelic language arts and culture center, located in a church. It combines theatre and art spaces, a radio station, a souvenir store and bookshop, a café and an art gallery on three floors. Cultúrlann defends and promotes the arts and language of Irish culture. Concerts are often scheduled as well as all sorts of educational workshops and temporary exhibitions. The café is lively. Programming is available online.

This is an example of a basic Georgian house built in 1774 by a charity. Known as the "poor house", it was intended to provide shelter for those in need. The children were trained in the trades of weaving and spinning, which provided labor for the city's industries (and food for the children...). Now elegantly restored, the house remains a home for the homeless, with organized events and lectures on the theme of trade and industry.

Opened in 2007, on the first anniversary of the death of Republican Eileen Hickey who had begun a collection of artifacts relating to the history of Irish Republicans. Volunteer workers were able to pursue her dream of preserving for future generations the memory of those who fought for freedom.

A former prisoner in the notorious Armagh Women's Prison (a cell is reconstructed at the entrance to the museum, with the original door of this prison opened in 1868 and closed in 1999!), Eileen died of cancer. Today, the museum displays a moving collection of artifacts that belonged to those who fought the revolution against British rule. Key books on politics and civil disobedience, memorabilia from the 1798 and 1803 rebellions, medals from 1916-1923, photographs and newspaper articles, and especially crafts made in prison by Irish Republican prisoners and items brought by their families. Indeed, the status of political prisoner, until 1979, gave some advantages such as the right to visit, to read and to create. The period saw the blossoming of a positive spirit of protest that incarceration did not alter. Prisoners wrote poems, read political screeds, sculpted wooden objects, in a few words, were in resistance... Later, London abolished this status, thinking to finally muzzle them by taking away these rights. Note that the museum lives on donations.

St Patrick's Church is a neo-Gothic church dating from 1815 in memory of St Patrick, with a bell tower of gigantic proportions that soars towards the Belfast sky, somewhat alone in this street that seems deserted by pedestrians. To get a better general view of the church, one should go to Little Donegall Street (opposite, a parallel street). The effect is striking with the parking lot in front and the old decrepit red brick buildings, the church alone seems to have resisted the passing of time.

St George's is the oldest Anglican church in Ireland (1816). It was once the site of a chapel where historical events related to the conquest of Ireland took place. Oliver Cromwell's troops used the roof as a musket ball, King William III gave a sermon in the pulpit still used today... Later, the IRA attacked the building many times. The building is massive and impressive, somewhat pompous with its pediment and six Corinthian pillars supporting it.

Owned by the city since 1869, this Protestant cemetery alone contains a page of Belfast's history. Here lie the people who "made" the history of the city, industrialists, politicians, businessmen and inventors. Celtic crosses testify to the acceptance of Irish symbols, until 1921 when these crosses became rare. The cemetery can be visited for its Victorian graves, some of which are real little (last) homes. Nearly 225,000 people are buried in this cemetery.

This monastery houses a congregation of Catholic missionaries (the Redemptorists, a movement founded in 1732 in Italy) who do not practice dogma (no baptism, marriage, burial...) but preach the word of Jesus in everyday life and help the poorest. The French Gothic building was built between 1890 and 1911, with an impressive stained glass rose window on the façade (6 meters in diameter). During the political events that agitated the city, this congregation facilitated talks between religious communities.

Milltown Cemetery, owned by the Catholic Church since 1869, traces the history of Belfast's republicans, some of whom died as a result of political events that separated the Protestant and Catholic communities. 154 republicans died for their cause of freedom and rights and are buried here (including Bobby Sands, Joe McDonnell and Kieran Doherty, three IRA volunteers who died on hunger strike in 1981). Memorial plaques are erected in memory of all these political activists.

This memorial garden is dedicated to the memory of the members of the IRA. The site hosts a rough stone fountain and benches for meditation. One of the significant events of the clashes in the neighborhood is recounted with the engraving of a woman defying curfew and bringing back food. It is important to know that every inhabitant in West Belfast has a strong family history with a member of the IRA or a political prisoner. The atmosphere here is reflected in the more than 20 memorials, plaques and gardens.

To the west of Belfast, about 20 hectares of managed wetland where the biodiversity of the fauna and flora is remarkable and of course protected (prize awarded by Unesco to the Ulster Wildlife Trust for its work). Swans, dragonflies and small freshwater animals in their natural habitat. We walk on a path that sometimes turns into a small wooden bridge. A bucolic outing, ideal for a family outing on a sunny day.

This imposing six-story sandstone building was built in sections between 1899 and 1902. It faces the City Hall and is almost as imposing as it is, with its domes, Corinthian half-pillar façade, pediments, sculptures, sphinxes and bronze dolphins... It was once a place to manage Scottish funds, which were invested in Belfast at the time in commerce and industry. Today, the building houses offices.

Built in 1866 to accommodate the growing number of Catholic worshippers, most of whom worked in the linen industry and lived in the Falls Road neighborhoods, Belfast's St. Peter's Cathedral towers over the Gaeltacht Quarter with its two Gothic bell towers (and no less than ten bells). The interior of the building is also in the purest Gothic-Victorian style with a magnificent organ, a mosaic floor, pointed arches supported by marble pillars and stained glass windows with geometric patterns.

After Saint Mary's Church and Saint Patrick's Church, Saint Malachy is the third oldest church in Belfast. Built in 1844, it is considered a typical example of the new development of the Tudor style in Ireland. Romantic inside and out, it contrasts with the grey severity of the other churches. It is especially worth visiting for its molded stucco ceiling, which was inspired by Henry VII's chapel in Westminster Cathedral. White rosettes erected in stalactites give an exceptional relief to the ceiling.

This is a magnificent building designed by Sir Charles Lanyon, in an Italian Renaissance style and completed in 1856. Britannia, Mercury and Neptune, surrounded by a lion and a unicorn, watch over the Belfast Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as well as over the river Lagan, which flows nearby. Since the 19th century and up to the present day, the Customs House grounds have been the site of protests, strikes, parades, public debates and festivals. A place full of history and important in the local life.

These two giant, impressive yellow cranes in Belfast harbor are part of the historic heritage of Northern Ireland's capital and are preserved as such. They have become a veritable symbol of its culture. It's impossible to miss "Samson & Goliath", as they're nicknamed, which are 106 and 96 meters high respectively, and date back to the early 1970s. Despite the closure of the city's shipbuilding yards, these cranes have been carefully preserved and mark the surrounding skyline.

This sandstone and granite building typical of Victorian public buildings opened as Ireland's first library in 1888. It has three floors with a grand staircase, a reading room on the ground floor and an exhibition gallery on the top floor. The library has an extensive archival collection of Northern Irish music and Ulster and Irish studies. Local and Irish newspapers dating back to the 17th century are also available for consultation. A quiet place to soak up the past.

The Divis (478 m) and Black (390 m) mountains jealously watch over West Belfast. These limestone and basalt rocks (1,000 ha) are open to the public and overlook with their changing colors the inhabitants who often refer to them. The site is rich in biodiversity and archaeological sites. The weather changes quite frequently and quickly, so it is necessary to bring appropriate clothing and good shoes. From there, the view is magnificent.

The Belfast Zoo presents to its visitors no less than 150 different species (elephants, penguins, lions, kangaroos, giraffes, zebras, monkeys, bird park...) and 1000 animals in their "natural" environment. This zoo is particularly famous for its location, it spreads over the 55 hectares of Cave Hill, and also for its involvement in programs to save endangered species. It is a very beautiful place, as much as a zoo can be. Notice to the amateurs! Of course, bring rain gear just in case...

Loughareema is quite incredible geological and natural curiosity: there are three streams thrown into this lake without ever having their water re-surfaced. If one likes to believe that they volatilize, the scientific explanation is that they are absorbed into the soil by calcareous cracks. In the event of heavy rains the level increases still, but then disappears gradually… as by enchantment. The site is visible from the road and a trail is approaching as close as possible.

This forest is found at the end of Toberwine Street, from the village. An old stone porch in the mark and nice walks are possible.

In the village of Ballyronan, the harbour is complemented by a picnic area, a children's garden, a beach, a restaurant, and campsites and caravans.

This Victorian red brick covered market is the largest in Ireland. The original 1890 building was enlarged after it was bombed during World War II by the Germans. The entrance consists of three large Romanesque arches with inscriptions in Irish and Latin. Renovated in the 1990s, the market reopened in 1999. Since then it has been rated as one of the best markets in the UK. It brings together local producers and artisans from all communities. Concerts are also organized or evenings such as New Year's Eve. On Fridays, the market is made up of stalls selling second-hand books, antiques, second-hand clothes, fruit and vegetables and also a large selection of fish and seafood, all of which are fresh. On Saturdays, there is a nice selection of local cheeses, meats, fish and vegetables, often organically farmed. The Sunday market is a mix of the Friday and Saturday stalls. Delicious dishes cooked in front of you are also offered. It's a great place to have lunch on the go while listening to a local band. It is truly one of the most typical and warm experiences in Belfast. For the addresses, don't miss the Belfast BapCo, made of bread, bacon and sausages... In short, only fat, but it is very good and prepared in front of you! To ease your conscience afterwards, sip a fruity smoothie from Dabo Smoothies.

One of the very pretty and hidden waterfalls of the Antrim region, far from the tourists. From the car park it is accessible after only five minutes of walking. A green setting and an impressive waterfall. Be careful, the surroundings are very slippery. The view of the waterfall from the small bridge is superb. Arm your devices!

A nice walk along an old railway track. The setting is very picturesque, quiet and far from the crowd. We overlook Carnlough and its bay from the road. The walk takes place in a typically Irish environment, amidst green grass, brooms and sheep. Then, after half an hour's walk, we reach the waterfall, buried in the middle of lush vegetation. A charming walk.

This is an elegant Georgian manor house built around 1770 by the first Marquess of Downshire. It is now the official residence of the Royal Family when they travel to Northern Ireland, and the home of the Secretary of State since 1970. During the visit, we discover 8 reception rooms and we follow the traces of presidents, princesses, prime ministers and heads of state who passed through this house. You can enjoy a nice walk in the gardens and the domain.

Since 2020, Barney - who you'll recognize by his blue flag, sheriff's star and broad smile - has been taking you on a unique 2-hour tour of the stories behind the city's buildings. The Europa Hotel, the Grand Opera House, the Sunflower pub, Commercial Court Street: these places will no longer hold any secrets for you. Behind their stories (and funny anecdotes) is the history of Belfast and Northern Ireland. A fascinating tour punctuated by period photos and pertinent commentary.

An expatriate in Belfast for 24 years, Stéphane has taken a close interest in his adopted city. The range of tours he offers in French is the result of years of research. It's a real investigation, carried out with meticulous impartiality, which this teacher is delighted to share with us. Several tours are offered (Discovering and Understanding Belfast, Maritime Belfast, Historic Belfast Pubs, The Troubles), bookable individually or in blocks. You'll come away surprised and enriched by the new knowledge generously imparted by this fascinating guide.

This is the official website for tourism in Northern Ireland. Well thought-out, it will help you plan your trip to Belfast, Derry, the Giant's Causeway or the counties of Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh or Tyrone, whether in terms of tourist attractions, transport, accommodation solutions, restaurants or events of all kinds. You'll even find a selection of promotional offers from partner establishments. Very useful!