Attractions and Places To See in Antrim Coast And Glens Aonb - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Antrim Coast And Glens Aonb are found within a diverse landscape rich in natural beauty and historical landmarks. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty stretches along the County Antrim coastline, encompassing the Glens of Antrim and Rathlin Island. The region features dramatic headlands, sandy bays, and woodlands, alongside historic castles and ancient monuments. It offers a variety of natural and cultural sites for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see in Antrim Coast And Glens Aonb
- The most popular attractions is Inver River Waterfall, a waterfall that plunges down a jagged rock face into a deep pool within Glenariff Forest. It is easily accessible via a hiking trail and offers a different perspective from the top.
- Another must-see spot is Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall, a waterfall where an elevated boardwalk leads through the forest up close to the falls, which plummet from a height into a deep pool. The Waterfall Walkway provides varied backdrops for photographers with its scenic panoramas.
- Visitors also love Waterfall and Bridge on the Glenariff River, a picturesque setting along the Glenariff River featuring a bridge, waterfall, and lush greenery. It is part of the Glenariff Forest Park, known as the "Queen of the Nine Glens of Antrim."
- Antrim Coast And Glens Aonb is known for its dramatic waterfalls, historic sites, and charming coastal villages. Visitors can explore a variety of natural and cultural attractions throughout the region.
- The attractions in Antrim Coast And Glens Aonb are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 90 upvotes and over 60 photos shared.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Inver River Waterfall
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Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall
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Carnlough Harbour
Highlight • Historical Site
The port was recently renovated and is used by pleasure boats and small fishing boats. The area offers many opportunities for both fishing and freshwater fishing.
The Londonderry Arms Hotel was built in 1848 as an inn by Frances Anne Vane Tempest, Marchioness of Londonderry, great-grandmother of Winston Churchill.
A little above the village is the Cranny waterfall.
In 2016 the place had 2,084 inhabitants.
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Waterfall and Bridge on the Glenariff River
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Kelp House
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Tips from the Community
Very beautiful waterfalls along the way and very well developed.
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Glenariff Forest Park is a beautiful park located in County Antrim in Northern Ireland. The park covers over 1,185 hectares and has a number of scenic trails that run past some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Northern Ireland. We spent a day hiking around this beautiful waterfall.
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An old-fashioned marina in a fishing village. An idyllic place to stop during the long walk on this stretch of the CCR.
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Many walks start out from the information centre near the parking. It costs £5 (2023) to park at the visitor centre. Entry on foot is free. The waterfall walk takes you down into the gorge where you can walk along paths and wooden walkways to admire the waterfalls.
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Better to walk the path counterclockwise
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A dream place to watch and swim. Is easy to reach via a hiking trail. Not far from there is a restaurant with a beautiful outdoor terrace.
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Glenariff Forest Park – the “Queen of the Nine Glens of Antrim” – with raging waterfalls, ancient forests past “Ossians Grave. The unique Waterfall Walk way leads along forest paths and along the river banks through a national nature reserve and offers photographers a varied backdrop with its three waterfalls and picturesque panoramic landscapes.
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The one-of-a-kind Waterfall Walkway winds through the National Conservation Area on forest trails and along the riverbank, offering a varied backdrop for photographers with its three waterfalls and scenic panoramas.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore in the Antrim Coast and Glens AONB?
The region is renowned for its diverse natural beauty. You can discover the picturesque Inver River Waterfall and Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall within Glenariff Forest Park, often called the "Queen of the Glens." The coastline features dramatic headlands like Fair Head and Torr Head, alternating with sandy bays and rocky shores. Don't miss Rathlin Island, Northern Ireland's only inhabited offshore island, known for its unique geology and abundant seabird colonies.
Are there good hiking opportunities in the Antrim Coast and Glens AONB?
Yes, the area offers numerous hiking trails. Glenariff Forest Park is particularly popular for its Waterfall Walkway, which includes highlights like the Waterfall and Bridge on the Glenariff River. For more options, you can explore various routes, including easy and moderate trails, by checking out the Waterfall hikes in Antrim Coast And Glens Aonb guide.
What historical sites and castles can I visit?
The Antrim Coast and Glens AONB is rich in history. You can explore the 17th-century Glenarm Castle, a private residence with acclaimed gardens, or the historic Ballygalley Castle, now a hotel. Other notable sites include the ruins of Red Bay Castle and Castle Carra, as well as ancient monuments like Bonamargy Friary and Layd Church, which reflect the region's long settlement history.
Are there any charming villages to explore along the coast?
Absolutely. The area is dotted with picturesque villages. Carnlough Harbour is a popular stop with its renovated port and historic Londonderry Arms Hotel. Other quaint villages include Cushendun and Cushendall, known for their strong cultural ties, and Glenarm, a historic fishing village.
What is the best time of year to visit the Antrim Coast and Glens AONB?
The Antrim Coast and Glens AONB is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit for outdoor activities and wildlife spotting is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is milder, and seabirds like puffins are present on Rathlin Island for their breeding season. However, the dramatic landscapes offer stunning views even in winter.
Are there family-friendly attractions or walks suitable for children?
Yes, many attractions are suitable for families. Glenariff Forest Park, with its accessible Waterfall Walkway, is a great option for all ages, featuring the Inver River Waterfall and Waterfall and Bridge on the Glenariff River. Coastal villages like Carnlough Harbour also offer pleasant, easy strolls and scenic views.
Can I find locations related to popular culture, like Game of Thrones?
Yes, the Antrim Coast and Glens AONB and its immediate surroundings have been used as filming locations for Game of Thrones. While not within the AONB itself, the famous Dark Hedges are nearby, and the village of Cushendun features caves used in the series. These sites are often included in tours of the wider Causeway Coastal Route.
What kind of wildlife can I spot, especially seabirds?
The region is a haven for wildlife, particularly seabirds. Rathlin Island is a significant site, hosting around 250,000 breeding seabirds, including puffins, razorbills, and kittiwakes, during the breeding season. The island is also home to the rare golden hare and diverse marine life. Woodlands throughout the AONB support various other species.
What cycling routes are available in the Antrim Coast and Glens AONB?
The Antrim Coast and Glens AONB offers fantastic road cycling opportunities, forming a significant part of the scenic Causeway Coastal Route. You can find routes ranging from moderate to difficult, such as the Glenarm Castle – Carnlough Harbour loop. For detailed routes and guides, refer to the Road Cycling Routes in Antrim Coast And Glens Aonb.
Are there running trails in the area?
Yes, there are several running trails available. Options include coastal paths like the Ballycastle coastal path, and loops through areas such as Carnfunnock Country Park. You can find more information on distances and difficulty levels in the Running Trails in Antrim Coast And Glens Aonb guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the Antrim Coast and Glens AONB?
Visitors frequently praise the dramatic waterfalls, historic sites, and charming coastal villages. The stunning natural beauty, particularly the gushing cascades of Inver River Waterfall and Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall, is a highlight. The picturesque settings along rivers, featuring bridges and lush greenery, also receive high acclaim, offering varied backdrops for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Where can I find information about the Antrim Coast and Glens AONB's designation?
The Antrim Coast and Glens is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) due to its diverse landscape, rich natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural significance. You can learn more about its designation and management on the official Northern Ireland government website: daera-ni.gov.uk.
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