In our series on Ireland’s counties, we reveal our best tips, tricks and picks for visiting each one. This time around, we focus on County Antrim.
County Antrim is best known for the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Giant’s Causeway and for containing part of Northern Ireland’s capital city, Belfast.
But did you also know that it’s home to the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery at Bushmills? And boasts one of Europe’s most dramatic cliff walks? Read on for our practical guide to the county to help plan your next trip.
Where to stay
Dunluce Lodge
Opening its doors in 2025, this five-star luxury boutique hotel in Portrush overlooks the fourth fairway of the Royal Portrush Golf Club. Boasting 35 suites, a restaurant serving local fare, a spa and an intimate, private vibe near the Causeway Coastal Route, it’s an ideal base for coastal wanderers, golf enthusiasts and families alike.
The Harrison Chambers of Distinction
If you want to stay in the heart of Belfast, The Harrison Chambers of Distinction is the quirkiest place to lay your head, situated in Belfast’s Queen’s Quarter. Owned by Melanie Harrison, this eclectic hotel offers 30 rooms, each themed around well-known Belfast figures—from Van Morrison to C.S. Lewis—making every room a visual treat. Beyond that, you can expect a delicious homemade breakfast delivered right to your door, luxurious amenities and a freestanding bath in select rooms.
Dunadry Hotel And Gardens
Situated about a ten-minute drive from Belfast International Airport, the Dunadry Hotel and Gardens is a four-star property perched on the banks of the Six Mile River. Housed in a renovated historic linen mill, the hotel and its grounds exude history, which you can discover while strolling the estate and gardens. The property also features a spa garden and hosts frequent events, so check their website in advance to see what’s on during your visit.
Other accommodation includes:
Dunsilly Hotel
Ballyrobin Country Lodge
Inn on the Coast
Portrush Adelphi
Elephant Rock Hotel
Galgorm
Where to eat
Restaurants
Orto
Banh Boy Antrim
Sleepy Hollow
The Chubby Cherub
Coppi Restaurant
Stacked
The Coach House
NUCCI
Coffee/Brunch
Third Day Coffee
Hey Darlin’
Caife Ceoil
Blether & Brew
The Boathouse Cafe
Pubs
The Fullerton Arms Ballintoy
The Boyd Arms
The Ramble Inn
What to do
The Gobbins Cliff Path
Experience the coastline from a new perspective on this 3-kilometer cliff path, the ideal route to soak up the sea, sea caves and marine life. Originally built in 1902, the area underwent major renovations and reopened to the public in 2015, inviting visitors to traverse the coast via bridges, tunnels and staircases hewn straight into the rocks. The route is a bit challenging for those with limited mobility but remains accessible to beginners with a basic level of fitness. For pre-booked tickets, click here.
The Old Bushmills Distillery
The Old Bushmills Distillery is recognized as the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery, authorized for production since 1608. Nestled not far from the Giant’s Causeway, guests can enjoy a guided tour that highlights its 100% malted barley and triple-distilled process, with the chance to sample a few products along the way to complete the experience.
The Giant’s Causeway
You can’t visit Antrim without seeing The Giant’s Causeway. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it features about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity roughly 60 million years ago. This natural wonder is a marvel in itself and also offers coastal walking trails plus a visitor centre.
Anything else I should know?
Aside from driving, there are several ways to reach the area from the Republic of Ireland, including train, bus and plane, with the nearest airport located in Belfast.
For more Irish County Guides, click here.
