Best attractions and places to see around Straidhavern include a mix of historical sites, natural landscapes, and scenic viewpoints. The region offers 5 notable locations for exploration. Visitors can discover significant historical gardens, prominent mountain summits, and expansive lake shores. Straidhavern provides diverse outdoor experiences for those interested in history and natural beauty.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Highlight • Historical Site
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Antrim Castle Gardens are an absolute historical gem. You will find nothing like these 400 year old gardens anywhere else in Northern Ireland. Walk into the past as you stroll around this magnificent setting, visiting beautiful features such as the Large Parterre, Her Ladyship’s Pleasure Garden and Yew Tree Pond. Within the heart of the Gardens is a unique visitor experience, the refurbished Clotworthy House. Visit the Garden Heritage Exhibition where you can read about the history of the Gardens and the story of the Massereene family. It provides a fantastic opportunity to come and learn about garden history how the lives of the key family members intertwine with the development of Antrim town and the surrounding areas.
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Café at the trailhead with parking
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Antrim Castle Gardens is the perfect place for a jog. It has flat gravel paths throughout as well as a wonderful medley of landmarks to discover such as Large Parterre, Her Ladyship's Pleasure Garden and Yew Tree Pond. Admission to the castle is free and is open 24 hours.
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Scenic section of walking along the shore of Lough Neagh from Antrim. The lough holds the title of the largest lake in Ireland and this footpath gifts you with some gorgeous vantage points to enjoy it from.
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Here you can discover the beauty of Antrim Castle Gardens & Clotworthy House. There's many beautiful landmarks along the way such as Large Parterre, Her Ladyship's Pleasure Garden and Yew Tree Pond. Admission to the castle is free and is open 24 hours.
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Mount Divis stands at 478m high and is the highest peak in the Belfast Hills. From this viewpoint nearby the summit you can enjoy sensational panoramic views across Belfast toward Lough Neagh and the Mourne Mountains, and Strangford Lough.
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Castle gardens including various buildings and ruins on the river. Plenty to look at and explore in the gardens.
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You can explore the historic Antrim Castle Gardens, which feature 400-year-old gardens, the Large Parterre, Her Ladyship’s Pleasure Garden, and Yew Tree Pond. The refurbished Clotworthy House within the gardens also offers a visitor experience with a Garden Heritage Exhibition.
For breathtaking panoramic views, head to View of Belfast from Divis Mountain. From this 478-meter-high peak, you can see across Belfast towards Lough Neagh, the Mourne Mountains, and Strangford Lough. Divis and the Black Mountain also offer expansive views across the north.
Yes, Antrim Castle Gardens are family-friendly with plenty to explore. Additionally, the Picnic Area at Divis and the Black Mountain provides multiple picnic benches, public toilets, and a cafe, making it a great spot for families after a hike. The Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim also offers scenic walking suitable for families.
The region offers diverse natural landscapes. You can explore Divis and the Black Mountain, which feature a mosaic of grassland and heathland bog, home to wildlife and archaeological remains. The Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim provides scenic walking paths along Ireland's largest lake.
Near Straidhavern's attractions, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. For hiking, consider routes like the Divis and the Black Mountain loop or the Antrim Castle Ruins – Lough Neagh Shore loop. If you prefer running, there are several moderate running loops available, including those around Lough Neagh Shore. Road cycling enthusiasts can find routes like the Bartin's Bay – View of Lough Neagh loop. You can find more details on these activities in the hiking guide, running guide, and road cycling guide for Straidhavern.
Yes, there are several hiking trails. For example, you can hike around Divis and the Black Mountain, with options ranging from easy to moderate, offering stunning views. Another popular route is the Antrim Castle Ruins – Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim loop. More hiking options are detailed in the Hiking around Straidhavern guide.
At Picnic Area at Divis and the Black Mountain, you'll find a beautiful picnic area complete with multiple picnic benches, public toilets, and a cafe. It's an ideal spot to relax and refuel after exploring the trails.
The Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim offers a scenic section of walking along the shore of Ireland's largest lake. It provides gorgeous vantage points to enjoy the expansive waters and surrounding landscape.
Visitors particularly appreciate the historical significance of Antrim Castle Gardens, often highlighting the 400-year-old gardens and the Clotworthy House. The panoramic views from Divis Mountain are also highly praised, especially on clear days. The convenience of facilities like the cafe and picnic area at Divis and the Black Mountain is also a common positive comment.
Yes, the climb to the summit of Divis Mountain is considered challenging, especially for cyclists, but the reward is superb views over Belfast and beyond. Hikers will also find the ascent to Divis and the Black Mountain a rewarding experience.
Yes, at the Picnic Area at Divis and the Black Mountain, there is a cafe available, perfect for a refreshment or a light meal after your hike. For other options, you would typically find cafes and pubs in nearby towns like Antrim.


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