Just across the Irish Sea from Cairnryan, Mid & East Antrim offers plenty for couples, families, friends, and solo travellers. Here, we share our top 5 attractions in Mid & East Antrim so you can plan your fun-packed UK staycation in Northern Ireland.
Carrickfergus Castle
Step back in time with a visit to the striking Carrickfergus Castle. Set on the shore of Belfast Lough, this castle has been standing for over 800 years and is one of the best preserved medieval structures in Northern Ireland, making it a must visit for culture vultures and history fans. Explore historical audio-visual displays, read interesting information boards, and spot life size models that really bring Carrickfergus Castle to life. Other highlights include cannons from the 17th – 19th centuries and the 90ft tower.
The rest of Carrickfergus is certainly worth exploring when you visit its castle too. As County Antrim’s oldest town, and one of the oldest settlements in Northern Ireland, there’s plenty to discover during your time here. For example, St. Nicholas’ Church – which was established by the same Anglo-Norman knight that built Carrickfergus Castle in the 12th century – offers the chance to see some stunning examples of stained-glass windows and guided tours are available to book should you want to find out more.
Whitehead Railway Museum
The Whitehead Railway Museum is the perfect option for those seeking an informative and fun attraction in Mid & East Antrim. This museum has five different rooms and offers the chance to get up close to fascinating steam trains and historic carriages. As the home of the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland (RPSI), you’ll have access to a team of train experts who will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about the history of the railway. Plus, you’ll be able to see the RPSI’s workshops where they restore and maintain their trains.
You can also enjoy a number of interactive elements at the Whitehead Railway Museum, including pulling the levers in the signal box and stepping onto the footplate of a 140-year-old locomotive. There are also vintage clothes available for children to try on so they can get into the spirit of the era! During your visit, treat yourself to some refreshments in the Edwardian Tea Room which is bound to stir up some nostalgia for traditional train travel.
Carnfunnock Country Park
Carnfunnock Country Park has something for everyone and is the perfect destination for a family day out in Mid & East Antrim. The Carnfunnock Family Funzone is a great place to start, and you and your little ones are bound to enjoy the miniature railway, 18-hole mini golf course, and bungee trampolines. There are also remote-control trucks and boats to try out and a bouncy castle for children between the ages of 2 and 12.
Elsewhere in Carnfunnock Country Park, you can take on numerous walking trails or even try your luck at a treasure hunt. There are also orienteering and geocaching opportunities for those looking for an outdoor challenge! When it comes to refreshments, there’s an onsite café, snack shop, and ice cream options which you can buy food and drink from. Alternatively, you can hire a BBQ or bring a picnic which can be enjoyed in one of a number of seating areas.
Ballygally Beach
Set on the famous Causeway Coastal Route, Ballygally Beach offers the perfect excuse for a sandy walk or a dip in the sea. Offering fantastic views as far as the eye can see, Ballygally Beach is the proud owner of a Seaside Award thanks to its high-quality bathing water, general cleanliness, and facilities. If you’re looking for somewhere to stay, Ballygally Castle is located just across the road from the beach and offers rooms with stunning views and plenty of character.
There’s a children’s playground opposite the beach, a shop selling refreshments, public toilets, and a main car park, so you’re sure to have access to all you need during your visit. Dogs are welcome on Ballygally Beach which is great news if you’re travelling with your furry friend. They will need to be kept on their lead from 11am to 6pm on public and bank holidays, and between 1st June and 31st August, but can walk freely outside of these peak times.
The Gobbins
Located just 20 minutes from Larne by car, The Gobbins is a unique experience perfect for wildlife lovers and those looking for an exhilarating attraction in Mid & East Antrim. The Gobbins gives you the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in nature as you navigate bridges, caves, handcrafted steps, narrow walkways, and tunnels. As you take on the rocky pathways, keep an eye out for dolphins, seals, porpoises, and a whole variety of seabirds too, as many different animals call this area home.
Either side of your 5km coastal walk, you can visit the site’s café, gift shop, and restrooms, plus there are free lockers available where you can leave any bags you’ve brought with you. Once you’re ready to set off, you’ll meet your guide who will go through important safety measures and you’ll then board a bus which will take you to the beginning of the route. Highlights of The Gobbins to look out for include the impressive tubular bridge, the Clifftop Viewpoint, and the Aquarium which offers great views of the wildlife swimming beneath you.
Now that you know all about our top 5 attractions in Mid & East Antrim, book your Cairnryan to Larne ferry crossing and start planning your perfect trip. For more information about these attractions, and other things to do in Mid & East Antrim, visit the Shaped by Sea and Stone website.
