Attractions and Places To See around Carncome - Top 5
Best attractions and places to see around Carncome include a variety of historical sites, natural landmarks, and scenic viewpoints. The region features ancient gardens, a prominent volcanic mountain offering panoramic views, and significant historical structures. Visitors can explore sites with centuries of history and enjoy the diverse landscape.
Best attractions and places to see around Carncome
- The most popular attractions is Antrim Castle Gardens, a historical site and garden that features 400-year-old gardens and the refurbished Clotworthy House. It…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Antrim Castle Gardens
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Walk into the past as you stroll …
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Slemish Mountain
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View of Slemish Mountain from Colin Road
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Antrim Round Tower
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The Protector of the Lough
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The Round Tower is an impressive reminder of Antrim's ancient monastic settlement. Built around the 10th century as the monastery's bell tower, it is known locally as The Steeple. It stands 28 meters tall. The monastic site was burned down in 1147.
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The Protector of the Lough statue shows the mythological giant Finn McCool standing guard at Antrim Marina on the shores of Lough Neagh. It's an eight-metre-tall sculpture created by Spanish artist Casto Solan to celebrate the local folklore of the Lough.
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Slemish Mountain is the remnant of an extinct volcano near Ballymena on the Antrim Coast of Northern Ireland. Its summit rises to 437m, offering hikers beautiful views of the surrounding area and even the Scottish coast. Legend says that St. Patrick found God here after being enslaved as a youth and forced to herd sheep in the area. After escaping, he later returned to the area as a priest to convert his old master. Therefore, hundreds of people hike the 1.5km circular trail to the summit, especially on St. Patrick's Day (March 17). The 180m climb is rocky and steep and can be dangerous, especially in bad weather, so all hikers should be equipped for the rapidly changing weather conditions.
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The Round Tower is an impressive reminder of Antrim’s ancient monastic settlement. It was built around the 10th century as a bell-tower as part of the Early Christain monastery and is known locally as The Steeple. It is 28 metres tall and is one of the finest of its kind in Ireland. The monastic site was burned in 1147.
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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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Castle gardens including various buildings and ruins on the river. Plenty to look at and explore in the gardens.
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A long climb followed by a nice fast descent. The summit of the climb on a clear day has views for miles across to Slemish Mountain and beyond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural landmarks and viewpoints can I explore around Carncome?
The region offers several natural highlights. You can visit Slemish Mountain, a remnant of an extinct volcano rising to 437m, which provides stunning views of the surrounding area and even the Scottish coast. Another excellent spot is the View of Slemish Mountain from Colin Road, offering panoramic vistas after a rewarding climb.
Are there historical sites to visit near Carncome?
Yes, Carncome is rich in history. Explore the 400-year-old Antrim Castle Gardens, where you can learn about garden history and the Massereene family at the refurbished Clotworthy House. Don't miss the Antrim Round Tower, an impressive 28-meter tall structure from the 10th century, marking an ancient monastic settlement.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
There are various outdoor activities available. You can find numerous routes for hiking, running, and cycling. For easy hikes, explore options like the 'Antrim Castle Gardens – The Protector of the Lough loop from Antrim'. Runners might enjoy the 'Devenagh Burn Riverbank loop from Ballymena'. Cyclists have routes such as the 'Antrim Castle Gardens – Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim loop from Ballycraigy'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Easy hikes around Carncome, Running Trails around Carncome, and Cycling around Carncome guides.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Carncome?
Absolutely! Both Antrim Castle Gardens and the Antrim Round Tower are considered family-friendly. The gardens offer plenty of space to explore historical features, while the ancient tower provides an interesting glimpse into the past for all ages.
What are the best hiking trails near Carncome?
For hikers, Slemish Mountain offers a challenging 1.5km circular trail to its summit. For easier options, consider routes like the 'Antrim Castle Gardens – The Protector of the Lough loop from Antrim' or the 'Antrim Round Tower loop from Antrim'. More hiking options can be found in the Easy hikes around Carncome guide.
Is Slemish Mountain a challenging climb?
Yes, the climb up Slemish Mountain is considered challenging. The 1.5km circular trail to the 437m summit is rocky and steep. Hikers should be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, especially given its exposed nature.
What is 'The Protector of the Lough'?
The Protector of the Lough is an eight-meter-tall sculpture by Spanish artist Casto Solan, located at Antrim Marina on the shores of Lough Neagh. It depicts the mythological giant Finn McCool standing guard and celebrates local folklore. It is also wheelchair accessible.
Can I learn about local history at Antrim Castle Gardens?
Yes, Antrim Castle Gardens offers a unique visitor experience at the refurbished Clotworthy House. Here, you can explore the Garden Heritage Exhibition to learn about the history of the gardens and the story of the Massereene family, whose lives intertwined with the development of Antrim town.
What is the significance of the Antrim Round Tower?
The Antrim Round Tower, also known as The Steeple, is an impressive reminder of Antrim's ancient monastic settlement. Built around the 10th century as a bell tower, it stands 28 meters tall and is one of the finest of its kind in Ireland, despite the monastic site being burned down in 1147.
Are there any wheelchair accessible attractions?
Yes, The Protector of the Lough statue at Antrim Marina is wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy this unique piece of local folklore and art.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Carncome?
Visitors particularly appreciate the historical depth of sites like the 400-year-old Antrim Castle Gardens and the ancient Antrim Round Tower. The panoramic views from Slemish Mountain and the unique mythological sculpture, The Protector of the Lough, are also highly valued for their distinct experiences.
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