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All Ireland Coastal Rowing Championships

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Mid & East Antrim

Experience adventures

  1. Discover the hidden gems of the Causeway Coastal Route
    Explore the many hidden gems of The Causeway Coastal Route in Mid & East Antrim. From Carrickfergus Castle to The Gobbins Cliff Path in Islandmagee, you'll find some of the most iconic scenery in Northern Ireland with experiences to be enjoyed at every turn.
  2. Billy Andy's steak platter on a wooden board being cut with a knife
    With its inextricable links to both the land and sea, Mid & East Antrim certainly has its fair share of amazing places to taste the local ingredients that make the food so special. Whether you want to try fine dining, traditional pub grub, or a bit of everything, you’ll be overjoyed with the edible delights just waiting to be discovered.
  3. Things To Do in Mid & East Antrim
    With striking castles to discover, dramatic landscapes to explore, incredible food to taste, and fascinating stories to hear, your unforgettable visit to Mid & East Antrim will be an experience like no other. Immerse yourself into the history of the area through taking tours with local guides, listening to traditional storytellers and visiting landmarks, and enjoy all of the activities and local crafts that are on offer.
  4. Image showing drone-view of coast road with the word "Blog" overlayed.
    With inspiration and ideas on where and why you should visit, our blogs are full of useful and interesting info that will help you plan your next trip to Mid & East Antrim. Grab a coffee, sit back and read some of our latest blogs here...
  5. A couple of hikers sitting on a gate admiring the view of Slemish in the background
    Just 20 minutes from Glenarm you'll find Slemish Mountain. It reaches about 1,500 feet above sea level and is located close to Broughshane in County Antrim. It is the legendary home of Saint Patrick and is actually the central core of an extinct volcano. Hike to the top and enjoy fantastic views!
    1. Family at Gleno Waterfall
      Take a short drive along the coast to Gleno village, where one of the regions hidden gems lies tucked away just off the roadside. Park up at the carpark, and take the easy stroll through the forest to Gleno Waterfall - a photographer's dream!
      1. Path through the forest with green trees and loads of bluebells
        From shoreline to forest - take a break from the coast and head inland to Portglenone, home to one of Mid & East Antrim's most enjoyable forest walks, with plenty of areas for kids to explore off the beaten path, and featuring a walk along the banks of the River Bann.
      2. A woman and child having a pretend sword fight in the room at the top of the castle keep with the sun beaming through the window behind.
        No visit to Mid & East Antrim would be complete without a trip to Carrickfergus Castle - an 800 year-old Norman fort in excellent condition. Overlooking Belfast Lough, this castle invites visitors to explore inside and out, on the ramparts and in the keep.
        August Events in Mid & East Antrim

        Highlights

        Poster to publicise Carrickfergus Artisan Market with image of Castle and time from 11am to 3pm on first Saturday of the Month.
        LocationCarrickfergus

        Explore Carrickfergus' Outdoor Artisan Market for handmade gifts and treats, operating monthly from…

        CAYC Annual Regatta 2025
        LocationCarrickfergus

        County Antrim Yacht Club's Annual Racing Regatta returns to Whitehead on Saturday 2 August,…

        Steam train departing from Whitehead Station with family onlooking from platform
        LocationWhitehead

        Visit Whitehead for a magical steam train ride and visit to Whitehead Railway Museum. Enjoy…

        Galgorm Championship Castle Course
        LocationBallymena

        The NI Legends Open is a brand new event on the Legends Tour that takes place at Galgorm. A host…

        Logo got Carrickfergus Tours and Tales with green background and castle in the centre
        LocationCarrickfergus

        Explore Carrickfergus with expert local guides through engaging walking tours, themed experiences,…

        Whitehead Railway Museum, Wee Critters, Whitehead
        LocationWhitehead

        Wee Critters are back by popular demand! Visit Whitehead Railway Museum on Saturday 30th August…

        Notice with food illustrations stating Food & Folk Fest Whitehead
        LocationWhitehead

        Join us for a day of family fun, food, and entertainment at the Whitehead Food & Folk Fest along…

        Around the Town Festival
        LocationCarrickfergus

        "Around the Town" is a nine-day music and community festival in Carrickfergus, featuring diverse…

        Glenarm Monthly Community Market
        LocationGlenarm

        Explore the Glenarm Monthly Community Market for artisan crafts, local treats, and live music.…

        Carnlough Whiskey Festival
        LocationCarnlough

        The Carnlough Whiskey Festival (20- 23 August ) promising four days of whiskey, music and craic.…

        Alastair exploring one of the Seven Towers
        LocationBallymena

        A heritage walking tour around Ballymena!

        Islandmagee Arts Trail
        LocationIslandmagee

        The Islandmagee Arts Trail, run by Islandmagee Originals, returns 2–3 August 2025, featuring local…

        Image of rowers in sea with coastline in background and words All-Ireland Coastal Rowing Championships, Glenarm County Antrim, 15 to 17 August 2025
        LocationGlenarm

        Experience thrilling coastal rowing in Glenarm on the Causeway Coastal Route, from 15–17 August…

        Re-Imagining The Islandmagee Witches Exhibition
        Location11 Antrim Street, Carrickfergus

        Another chance to experience this spellbinding exhibition developed by Carrickfergus Museum and a…

        A poster image for Pride & Prejudice outdoor theatre event.
        LocationCarrickfergus

        Outdoor theatre returns to Carrickfergus this August!

        Artwork by Jo Going
        LocationLarne

        An exhibition that looks beyond the surface of things, hinting at sacred spaces and complex…

        Castle 2
        Location11 Antrim Street, Carrickfergus

        An early medieval settlement at Deer Park Farms, Co. Antrim revisited

        Angeline King
        LocationLarne

        Join Angeline King as she delves into the mystery of the Agnew family, the subject of her latest…

        Celtic Scribe
        Location11 Antrim Street, Carrickfergus

        Celtic Scribe

        Castle
        Location11 Antrim Street, Carrickfergus

        Early Medieval Trade and Exchange

        Mir
        LocationCarrickfergus

        We are delighted to be launching the latest book of Mir Bahmanyar!

        A poster image for Pride & Prejudice outdoor theatre event.
        LocationBallymena

        Outdoor theatre returns to Ballymena this August!

        Rites
        Location1-29 Bridge Street, Ballymena

        Rites of Passage Exhibition

        lace
        Location1-29 Bridge Street, Ballymena

        This workshop takes place during August Craft Month.

        Unmissable Activities

        More Highlights

        Table set up with equipment for jewellery making class at Vera McCullough's
        LocationBroughshane

        Vera McCullough's jewellery workshop, set at the foot of Slemish Mountain, offer a hands-on…

        Castles & Stones Day Tour
        LocationLarne

        Discover our unique history, myths and personality on a day spent exploring unforgettable places in…

        Straidkilly Walk
        LocationCarnlough

        Mainly a hazel woodland walk, with areas of grassy clearings full of meadow flowers, best seen in…

        Portglenone Marina
        LocationPortglenone

        Portglenone Marina, 9 miles from Ballymena, offers 35 serviced berths, riverside views, top-class…

        Midtown Makers Studio Craft Workshops
        LocationBallymena

        Midtown Makers Studio and Shop, is one of Northern Ireland's foremost handmade craft and gift…

        Slemish Cycling Route
        LocationBallymena

        Scenic countryside circular route with stiff climbs.

        Exclusive NI Tours
        LocationBroughshane

        We provide luxury XJ Jaguars and Range Rovers for bespoke tours throughout Northern Ireland or…

        Slemish Mountain Hike
        LocationBroughshane

        Steep rocky track

        A glass of Ulster Whiskey
        LocationGlenarm

        Irish Whiskey is the fastest growing drinks market in the world, more and more people are…

        Portglenone Cycling Route
        LocationPortglenone

        Tranquil rural scenic village to village circular route.

        Miniville Play Sign featuring the words plus llustrated images of ice cream van, shop, church, house and castle.
        LocationCarrickfergus

        Discover Mini Ville, a magical play hub in Carrickfergus, where children explore themed buildings,…

        Black metal Buttermilk Bridge Riverside Path sign with writing in yellow and image of a bridge with cow and milk maid crossing
        LocationBrougshane

        Broughshane is known as the "Garden Village of Ulster" thanks to its floral displays. Over 75,000…

        Curiosity boat leaving historical Carnlough harbour
        LocationCarnlough

        Memorable, invigorating boat trip in this area of outstanding natural beauty. Passengers have the…

        Aerosports Paragliding
        LocationBallynure

        BHPA paragliding training E.P, C.P. and tandem flights around County Antrim hills and throughout…

        open seas sailing
        LocationCarrickfergus

        Depart Carrickfergus & enjoy sailing a modern, luxury yacht; be as active or leisurely as you want.…

        Hot Milk Forge Économusée
        LocationMartinstown

        Hot Milk Forge offers evening and weekend classes in Blacksmithing and Bladesmithing.

        Thermal Spa Village at Galgorm
        LocationGalgorm, Ballymena

        The Spa at Galgorm is a true haven of peace and tranquillity where every conceivable aspect of our…

        Larne to Red Bay Cycling Route
        LocationLarne

        This is a winding rural road that hugs the coastline. The sea is on one side with steep rocky…

        Cairndhu Golf Club
        LocationLarne

        Superb parkland course designed by J.F.S. Morrison, partner in the firm of Colt, Allison and…

        Carrick-a-rede
        LocationLarne

        We are a private, family run business, offering tours along the Causeway Coast and Antrim Glens.…

        Gail from The Pantry at Bramble Hill at Balmoral Show standing in front of a display stand with a branded apron and another demonstrator
        LocationGlarryford

        Gail at The Pantry @ Bramble Hill offers homely and traditional baking demonstrations either in in…

        Oakfield Glen and Bashfordsland Wood Walk
        LocationCarrickfergus

        A charming wooded glen and recently planted woodland

        Bentra Golf Course
        LocationWhitehead

        A well-matured 9 hole course, Bentra is designed with the experienced golfer and novice in mind.…

        Glenarm Marina
        LocationGlenarm

        Glenarm Marina offers 40 fully serviced pontoon berths within the village's historical limestone…

        Discover Local Retailers

        More Highlights

        Inver Garden Centre
        LocationLarne

        Over the last 20 years John and his wife Norma have developed the Garden Centre into one of the top…

        Exterior of Tweedie Pies Home Bakery with black framed glass, mint green sign and wooden panel trim
        LocationWhitehead

        Tweedie Pies Home Bakery (formerly McKee's Bakery) is a family run business serving and producing a…

        The Courtyard Carrickfergus
        LocationCarrickfergus

        The Courtyard in Carrickfergus is a charming retreat featuring local shops, cafes, and a community…

        Display of various sizes of wall mounted art
        LocationWhitehead

        Contemporary gallery & gift shop in the heart of Whitehead on the Causeway Coastal Route,…

        Green shop front of Jenni Mac Gifts & Crafts with window display of crafted items
        LocationLarne

        JenniMac Gifts and Craft shop in Larne offers a diverse selection of yarn, handmade items, artisan…

        Exterior of Ebb & Flow gift and craft shop in Carnlough
        LocationCarnlough

        Delightful craft and gift shop situated in the pretty harbour village of Carnlough, on the Causeway…

        Exterior of Dougies Goodies Bakery in Ballymena with pink and purple signage
        LocationBallymena

        Dougies Goodies, established in 1983, offers a delectable range of pastries, cakes, and treats in…

        Exterior of Bake bakery in Larne painted light green with black canopy and word BAKE in large window
        LocationLarne

        Discover tradition at Bake Larne, Larne's family-run bakery. Enjoy freshly baked goods including…

        Glenarm Monthly Community Market
        LocationGlenarm

        Explore the Glenarm Community Market for artisan crafts, local treats, and live music. Accessible…

        Midtown Makers Studio and Shop
        LocationBallymena

        Midtown Makers Studio and Shop, is one of Northern Ireland's foremost handmade craft and gift…

        Interior of Lighthouse Yarns with lots of wool displays and people at the crafting table
        LocationWhitehead

        Located in delightful Whitehead, on the Causeway Coastal route, you'll find an emporium of woolly…

        Creative Gardens Galgorm Castle
        LocationBallymena

        Creative Gardens is a family run Garden Centre and coffee shop business with stores based in…

        Archway over red door with sign reading The Nest and garland on the door
        LocationBallymena

        A unique, welcoming, quirky and independent interior and giftware emporium located in the listed…

        Blue and white exterior of Javart Gift Shop with potted plants
        LocationCarrickfergus

        Discover Javart in Carrickfergus for unique, handcrafted gifts and homeware. Enjoy personalised…

        Wear it Out
        LocationLarne

        Larne's Wear it Out provides affordable, high-quality outdoor gear with expert service, serving…

        Exterior of the Gallery in Whitehead, painted blue with large windows and art displayed in them
        LocationWhitehead

        The Gallery Whitehead, Art Gallery was established by local artist and art lover Cynthia Waddell,…

        Ice cream serving counter with The Rinkha ice cream logo
        LocationIslandmagee

        Treating yourself to The Rinkha's ice cream is a must for anyone exploring the picturesque wonders…

        Ann's Pantry of Larne
        LocationLarne

        Multi - award winning family run bakery set in the heart of Larne town centre, on the Causeway…

        Shop with displays of hats, scarves, jewellery, handbags and more
        LocationGlenarm

        Nestled within the picturesque grounds of Glenarm Castle along the beautiful Causeway Coastal…

        The Dribbly Yak Workshop @ Glenarm Castle
        LocationGlenarm

        Visit The Dribbly Yak Company’s shop and workshop at Glenarm Castle Estate to explore unique,…

        Grey shop frontage of McMasters Butchers in Whitehead
        LocationWhitehead

        Real deal, traditional craft butchers who rear their own meat on their family farm in Gleno and…

        Slemish Market Garden
        LocationBallymena

        Slemish Market Garden, located at Ecos Nature Park, Ballymena prides itself on using traditional…

        Table display of fragrances and oils with bunches of flowers in bucket displays behind.
        LocationGlenarm

        Indulge in pure luxury at Causeway Aromatics retail outlet in the grounds of Glenarm Estate. …

        Robinson's Shoemakers
        LocationCarrickfergus

        One of Northern Ireland's only remaining shoemakers & leading retailer of men's & women's luxury…

        Experiences &
        Adventures

        Experience adventures

        1. On The Water
          Pack your wetsuit and dive into the refreshing and exhilarating world of aquatic adventures! The area is home to an abundance of water-based activities with its miles of beautiful coastline ready to be explored.
        2. Creative Experiences in Mid & East Antrim
          Mid and East Antrim is a vibrant area filled with opportunities to explore your creative side. From art classes to cultural events, there are plenty of creative experiences for anyone looking to express themselves and learn something new. Time to roll up your sleeves and get hands-on!
        3. Explore more!
          With a wealth of tours, you can explore more and discover the hidden gems around every turn. Choose a guided tour for a personal, bespoke experience, or a self-guided option to take in the area at your leisure while not missing anything out!
        4. Walking & Hiking in Mid & East Antrim
          From coastal walks to panoramic views at the summit of a mountain. Explore the many beautiful areas of Mid & East Antrim on foot, whatever your level of ability. Embark on a walk or hike and you'll discover that this is one of the best ways to really get to know a place.
        View Maps and Visitor Guides
        View what Mid & East Antrim has to offer and some of the best things to see and do during a visit.
        E-newsletter sign up
        Sign up for the Mid & East Antrim newsletter for inspiration and travel tips.
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