A panoramic coastline, wild valleys, thick forests, centuries-old monuments and intriguing cities… County Antrim, in the Province of Ulster in Northern Ireland, promises a journey full of surprises. Stories and legends surround its distinctive landscapes, which were strategically chosen for filming the Game of Thrones saga. The views are sublime along the winding Antrim Coast Road, between the Glens and the coast, whether you explore it by car or bike. Villages and seaside resorts welcome you with hospitality and style, like Portrush which boasts a superb beach. It's also in Antrim that you'll find Northern Ireland's capital, Belfast.

History

Geographer Ptolemy documented the presence of a Celtic people called the "Darini" in this part of Ireland during antiquity. The southern territory of the current county belonged to the kingdom of Ulaid in the early Middle Ages. The northern zone formed Dal Riata, later conquered by the O'Lynch clan — future vassals of Ulaid. Dal Araidi was also situated in the south, whose Cruthin rulers opposed the chiefs of Dal Fiatach for control of the Ulaid kingdom.

Vikings arrived in the region between the 8th and 11th centuries. After the Anglo-Norman conquest, the domain of the Earls of Ulster was established and Antrim was integrated at the end of the 12th century. In the waning years of the Middle Ages, Antrim was eventually divided into three zones: Clandeboye, the Glens, and the territory of the MacQuillan.

Discovering County Antrim

County Antrim ranks among the regions with the largest share of the Irish population. As a tourist destination, it combines nature and history. You'll discover mythological places like the Giant's Causeway, ancient ruined castles, breathtaking coastal views and charming towns.

Essential towns in County Antrim

Belfast is Northern Ireland's capital. The city has endured a painful past marked by sectarian conflict. In the midst of a renaissance over the past fifteen years, it's now a sought-after city break destination. The Titanic, which was one of history's most significant shipbuilding achievements, was built in Belfast; an entire quarter is dedicated to it. Don't miss the museums, historic religious monuments, murals in West Belfast, gardens and bustling pubs.

Former county seat, the town of Antrim stands on the banks of the Six Mile Water river, known for its trout, near Lough Neagh. You'll find a fine golf course on the lake shore, as well as small cruise boats from the marina. Between the Glens and the coast, Ballycastle offers good restaurants, an 18th-century church on the main square, traditional markets (the Ould Lamas Fair, a tradition dating back four centuries, takes place in early August) and vibrant nightlife options. Portrush is the seaside resort to visit with family. It's also one of Ireland's best surf spots and home to the most prestigious golf club in the North which hosted the Open Championship in 2019. The White Rock beach will satisfy your relaxation needs.

Discover the Game of Thrones landscapes

Embark on a road trip through the Antrim Glens! This is a series of nine valleys deeply carved by glaciers, located about thirty kilometers from the coast. You'll travel through glacial valleys, stunning cliffs and waterfalls, centuries-old cultural sites and sandy beaches. County Antrim is also home to Ireland's largest lake (Lough Neagh) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Giant's Causeway. Other attractions are equally noteworthy, such as the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge leading to Carrick Island, the Old Bushmills whiskey distillery, Dunseverick Castle and Glenarm Castle, Rathlin Island, the village of Bushmills and Glenariff Forest Park.

When to visit County Antrim?

Antrim, like most of Ireland, experiences a maritime climate characterised by cool summers and mild winters. Every month is good for visiting the county, with May and June being the most popular among tourists for sunny days. It's rare for weather to turn very cold, though rain showers are frequent. Always pack something warm to wear.

By air

Located near the town of Antrim, Belfast International Airport is the main entry point to the county. You'll also find numerous domestic flights there. Then there's George Best Belfast City Airport, which has connections to Heathrow, Amsterdam, Brussels and other UK cities.

By ferry

Ferries regularly connect Larne to Cairnryan port near the town of Stranraer in Scotland. During the summer season, there's a passenger ferry between Campbeltown, Ballycastle and Port Ellen on Islay in Scotland.

Public transport in Antrim is managed by Translink. The system includes bus and train services. The main railway line connects Belfast, Antrim, Coleraine and Londonderry. Two other railway lines serve Carrickfergus and Larne from Belfast, and Portrush from Coleraine.

What to do in County Antrim?

• Explore the Titanic Quarter in Belfast
• Take a boat excursion on Lough Neagh
• Relax on Portrush beach
• Explore the Antrim Glens
• Visit the Giant's Causeway, etc.