Glenarm Castle
Glenarm, County Antrim
About Glenarm Castle
Fancy a day out in nature? Then Glenarm Castle & Garden is the place for you! Whether you're looking to explore beautiful gardens, enjoy a delicious meal, or soak in some history, Glenarm Castle, County Antrim, is a must-visit.
History of Glenarm Castle
Glenarm Castle is one of Northern Ireland's oldest and most historic family houses. Its history dates back to the early 17th century when the 1st Earl of Antrim, Randal Mcdonnell, and Aurora Mcdonnell first built the estate. Did you know that the Castle is still home to the McDonnell family, Earls of Antrim? It's a truly unique place to visit! As you wander through the grounds, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time, with the stunning architecture and well-preserved historical features telling the story of centuries past.
Things To Do At Glenarm Castle
This historic house is full of natural beauty. It features one of Ireland's oldest walled gardens and a wealth of immaculately landscaped themed counterparts, including water features, a herb garden, a yew circle, and much more. Glenarm Castle Gardens is a must-visit!
The Walled Garden is truly a highlight of any visit to Glenarm Castle! This beautifully maintained garden is a feast for the senses, with vibrant colours, stunning flowers, lush greenery, and carefully designed landscaping. It's the perfect place for a family stroll! The walled garden also features a woodland walk and Castle Trail, which are hit with younger visitors. As you explore the pathways, watch for the garden's friendly peacocks wandering around the grounds. Remember to check out the ancient woodland and famous Glenarm River surrounding the Castle. There are plenty of spots to sit and relax, so it's a great place to enjoy a picnic, take a break and enjoy the panoramic views across the country estate.
Don't fancy walking? Why not hire one of their state-of-the-art E-Bikes for an elevated outdoor adventure?
Glenarm Castle also hosts Castle tours throughout the year! The Castle is still a private family home for the Earl and Countess of Antrim, so the tour is only available on selected dates. You'll delve deep into a wealth of history as you explore the drawing room, family dining room, 'Blue Room' and the striking hall. You'll also see incredible 18th Century Irish furniture! Glenarm Castle is brought to life by the family butler and Castle staff, who will give you an insight into the Castle's intricate history. History buffs will love this!
Did you know there's a Mini Land Rover Experience here too? Kids can take control of the driving seat and zoom around one of the first off-road Mini Land Rover adventure courses in Northern Ireland!
Food and Drink
Feeling peckish? Visit the charming Glenarm Castle Tea Room and enjoy delicious homemade delights for breakfast, lunch, or afternoon tea! Indulge in juicy burgers, succulent fish and chips, tasty cakes, delicious cream teas, and even delicious Biscoff coffees. The Tea Room uses local ingredients, including their award-winning Glenarm Shorthorn Beef.
If that's not really your cup of tea, check out the Pizza Pavilion for a range of delicious pizzas. Choose from classic Margherita, pepperoni, veggie, sausage, BBQ chicken or spicy Ndjua. Fancy something sweet? Check out the ice cream parlour! You'll find Italian-style gelato made from traditional Shorthorn Herd Milk!
Shops
Check out the Castle Shop, The Byre, Shearer Ceramics, Causeway Aromatics and Past & Present for a touch of retail therapy. You'll find a wide range of fashion, accessories, souvenirs and gifts to commemorate your trip!
So, if you are heading to Northern Ireland, we definitely recommend stopping by this country estate! With panoramic views, stunning architecture and breathtaking nature to explore, you're in for a fun day out! It's a fantastic family day out with plenty to see and explore at the finest estate in County Antrim.
Why We Recommend Glenarm Castle & Garden
- Enjoy enchanted walks in the Walled Garden and woodland walk
- Explore this historic estate and private family home of the Antrim Mcdonnell Family
- Check out the incredible Castle Tour on selected dates
Rich Historical Architecture In This 17th Century Castle
As one of Northern Ireland's oldest family homes, the Castle continues to serve as a residence for the McDonnell family, Earls of Antrim. The Castle itself is a marvel of well-preserved architecture, from the grand drawing room to the striking hall, complete with 18th-century Irish furniture. The family butler and staff offer immersive tours, providing a unique glimpse into the intricate history and family heritage, making this an unforgettable experience for history buffs.
The Stunning Walled Gardens Are A Must Visit!
A visit to Glenarm Castle isn’t complete without exploring its remarkable Walled Garden, one of Ireland’s oldest. With vibrant flowers, lush greenery, and meticulously designed landscapes that offer a serene escape into nature. The garden paths take you on an enchanting journey through herb gardens, a yew circle, and even a woodland walk. Peacocks roaming the grounds and the serene flow of the Glenarm River add a magical touch to the experience. For families, the woodland trails and Castle Trail are hits with younger visitors, making it a delightful outdoor retreat for all ages.
Ride E-Bikes And Drive Mini Land Rovers
One standout activity is the Mini Land Rover Experience, where children can hop into pint-sized vehicles and tackle one of Northern Ireland's first off-road courses. It's an exciting way for young visitors to get behind the wheel and explore the estate from a new perspective. For those looking for a more leisurely adventure, hiring a state-of-the-art E-bike is another great option, allowing visitors to effortlessly explore the estate's expansive grounds while soaking in its breathtaking natural beauty.
Facilities
Toilets
Accessible Toilets
Baby Changing
Food Available
Wheelchair Friendly
Dog Friendly
Pushchair Friendly
Opening Times
- Monday, 09:00 - 17:00
- Tuesday, 09:00 - 17:00
- Wednesday, 09:00 - 17:00
- Thursday, 09:00 - 17:00
- Friday, 09:00 - 17:00
- Saturday, 09:00 - 17:00
- Sunday, 09:00 - 17:00
Opening times may vary, please see website for more details.
Pricing & Tickets
- Child (4-17) : £5.00
- Adult (17-18+) : £10.00
- Babies and Toddlers (0-3) : Free
Concession: £8.50
Member/HHA/RHS - Free
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
Find other attractions similar to Glenarm Castle by visiting our attraction tickets section.
Plan Your Visit
Typical visit time 2 - 3 hours
Suitable for Kids and Adults too
Food & Drink Options
Glenarm Castle Tea Room
Enjoy delicious homemade delights for breakfast, lunch, or afternoon tea! Indulge in juicy burgers, succulent fish and chips, tasty cakes, delicious cream teas, and even delicious Biscoff coffees.
Pizza Pavilion
Enjoy a range of delicious pizzas; choose from classic Margherita, pepperoni, veggie, sausage, BBQ chicken or spicy Ndjua.
The Milk Parlour
Check out the ice cream parlour! You'll find Italian-style gelato made from traditional Shorthorn Herd Milk!
FAQs
Parking
Toilets
Family Friendly Options
Food & Drink
Accessibility Information
Tickets & Bookings
Private Hire & Birthday Parties
Public Transport
Contact Details
Transport Information
By Bus
You can take the 1D and 2B buses to Glenarm Castle.
By Train
The closest train station is Larne Town station, which is a 22-minute taxi ride away.
By Car
If you are travelling from Belfast, head north on the M2, then take the Causeway Coastal Route from Larne to Glenarm.
If you are travelling from Ballymena, head east towards Broughshane and follow the signs for Glenarm.
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