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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

        Islandmagee Arts Trail
        LocationIslandmagee

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

        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…

        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…

        Willow & Lore Welcome
        LocationNewtowncrommelin

        Discover Fire, Feast & Folklore in the Antrim Hills - an unforgettable heritage farm experience…

        Poster stating Feel Good Fridays in Broadway Larne with image of DJ
        LocationLarne

        Feel Good Fridays brings live music to Larne Town Centre every Friday from 18 July to 22 August…

        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 promises four days of whiskey, music and craic. Featuring local…

        Pimm's Afternoon Tea @ Magheramorne Estate
        LocationMagheramorne

        Magheramorne Estate, on the Causeway Coastal Route, hosts a stylish Pimm's Afternoon Tea with…

        Summer Serenades
        LocationCarrickfergus, Larne, Ballymena, Whitehead, Glenarm

        Enjoy the sounds of summer with Summer Serenades, a free series of live outdoor music performances…

        Blue and Grey Music and Mind Logo
        LocationWhitehead

        Experience the Music and Mind Festival in Whitehead, County Antrim, from August 22-24! Celebrate…

        Alastair exploring one of the Seven Towers
        LocationBallymena

        A heritage walking tour around Ballymena!

        Music festival for all abilities
        LocationCarrickfergus

        Around the Town music festival is back for a second year with 22 events across 9 days in…

        Number of rowers in rowing boats in the sea competing in a race, with shore in background
        LocationGlenarm

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

        Whitehead Railway Museum, Wee Critters, Whitehead
        LocationCastleview Road, Whitehead

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

        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…

        Two little girls sitting at a Teddy Bears Picnic on a train in Whitehead Railway Museum
        LocationCastleview Road, Whitehead

        Bring your teddy to Whitehead Railway Museum for a steam engine ride, teddy hunt, and fun…

        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…

        Image showing crafting
        LocationCullybackey
        Witches of islandmgee event graphic
        LocationIslandmagee

        Experience the Islandmagee Witch Trial brought to life through a live storytelling performance with…

        Colin Graham Live In Concert
        Location1-29 Bridge Street, Ballymena

        Colin Graham Live In Concert

        Castle
        Location11 Antrim Street, Carrickfergus

        Early Medieval Trade and Exchange

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

        Outdoor theatre returns to Carrickfergus this August!

        Witches of Islandmagee marketing graphic
        LocationIslandmagee

        This small hallway display will introduce the story of the last witch trial held in Ireland, which…

        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…

        Group of storytellers
        LocationGlenarm

        ​Dalriada Legends, a brand new group of professional storytellers and musicians are keeping this…

        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…

        Carrickfergus Castle
        LocationCarrickfergus

        Self guided murder mystery trail from Whodunit Hunts on foot in historic Carrickfergus. See the…

        Carrickfergus Golf Club
        LocationCarrickfergus

        With its imaginative use of water and sand the par of 68 is not matched that easily. The course…

        E-Bike Hire (Whitehead)
        LocationWhitehead

        Explore the spectacular coastal scenery of Whitehead and Islandmagee by e-bike. Take a spin around…

        Carnlough Harbour
        LocationLarne

        Self guided driving murder mystery trail from Whodunit Hunts along the east Antrim coast, starts…

        Swifts Forge
        LocationIslandmagee

        Swifts Forge in Islandmagee offers a range of blacksmithing classes to create something special,…

        Curiosity boat leaving historical Carnlough harbour
        LocationCarnlough

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

        Whitehead Golf Club
        LocationWhitehead

        The club boasts a challenging but fair 18 hole course coupled with excellent clubhouse facilities.…

        Glenarm to Larne Walk
        LocationGlenarm

        Featuring expansive panoramas and challenging climbs, this route

        River Bann Tours
        LocationPortglenone

        River Bann Tours offer boat trips on the Lower Bann based at Portglenone Marina. Tickets can be…

        View of Blackhead path and Lighthouse with wake of sea behind boat and life ring visible on Charter NI Boat
        LocationCarrickfergus

        Explore the Beauty of the Sea with Charter Boats NI! Join us at Carrickfergus Marina for private…

        Individual catching 3 fish with a fishing rod.
        LocationCarnlough

        Hop aboard the Amberjack and enjoy a 3 hour fishing trip out of Carnlough or Glenarm (subject to…

        Cairndhu Golf Club
        LocationLarne

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

        Townland Tours
        LocationBelfast

        See and experience all that Northern Ireland has to offer with a local Blue Badge Tour Guide from…

        Gleno Waterfall Walk
        LocationGleno

        This walk has many steps. The steps meander up and down the sides of this moist valley to enable…

        Coast Road Cycling Route
        LocationLarne

        A rural winding road that hugs the coastline. Sea views are on one side and rugged steep hillsides…

        Gobbins
        LocationCarrickfergus

        Create life-long memories and discover hidden gems along the coast, cruising from Carrickfergus…

        Midtown Makers Studio Craft Workshops
        LocationBallymena

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

        Exterior of Galgorm Castle
        LocationBallymena

        Explore over 400 years of history at Galgorm Castle & Grounds in Ballymena with Glenburn Tours.…

        Portglenone Cycling Route
        LocationPortglenone

        Tranquil rural scenic village to village circular route.

        Honeybees Playtown
        LocationBallymena

        Honeybees Playtown in Ballymena offers an exciting indoor play experience for children 0-10,…

        Medieval wall mural in Carrickfergus, with stocks beside it.
        LocationCarrickfergus

        Carrickfergus with over 1000 years of history under its belt, has lots of secrets to reveal. Enjoy…

        Discover Local Retailers

        More Highlights

        Robinson's Shoemakers
        LocationCarrickfergus

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

        Brown and cream exterior of CF Beattie with sign stating Shooting & Fishing Accessories / Gunsmith plus antique displays in windows
        LocationBallycarry

        C F Beattie & Son in Ballycarry offers expert advice and a wide range of equipment for fishing and…

        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…

        Display of various sizes of wall mounted art
        LocationWhitehead

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

        Kayaks and watersports equipment displayed in Salty Shack shop
        LocationWhitehead

        Located in Whitehead along the Causeway Coastal Route, Salty Shack / Coast and Marine specialises…

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

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

        Midtown Makers Studio and Shop
        LocationBallymena

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

        Trays of different flavoured scones
        LocationBallymena

        Irons Home Bakery in Ballymena offers freshly baked delights from traditional breads to sweet…

        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…

        Ann's Pantry of Larne
        LocationLarne

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

        The Dribbly Yak Workshop @ Glenarm Castle
        LocationGlenarm

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

        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…

        Hillmount Carrick
        LocationCarrickfergus

        Located on Beltoy Road near Carrickfergus, Hillmount Carrick is a dog-friendly garden centre with…

        The Milk Parlour @ Glenarm Castle
        LocationGlenarm

        Gourmet ice-cream at Glenarm Castle Estate on the Causeway Coastal Route, freshly made with milk…

        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…

        Glenarm Monthly Community Market
        LocationGlenarm

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

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

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

        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…

        Entrance to Shearer Cermaics in grounds ofo Glenarm Castle with green door, grey paving, grey walls and green sign stating 'The Potters Workshop'
        LocationGlenarm

        Discover Shearer Ceramics at Glenarm Castle Estate, founded by Rory and Helen Shearer in 2023.…

        Black and white exterior premises of Natasha Swan Ceramics with window display
        LocationWhitehead

        Natasha Swan Ceramics, situated in the coastal town of Whitehead on the Causeway Coastal Route, is…

        Creative Gardens Galgorm Castle
        LocationBallymena

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

        Wear it Out
        LocationLarne

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

        Copperwood Candle Company
        LocationCarrickfergus

        Copperwood Candle Co. in The Courtyard, Carrickfergus, offers hand-poured soy candles and…

        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…

        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.
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        Sign up for the Mid & East Antrim newsletter for inspiration and travel tips.
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