Northern Ireland

From the world-famous Giant's Causeway to the world-class Mount Stewart estate, discover places to visit and things to see and do in Northern Ireland.

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Walking in Northern Ireland

Embrace the vibrant spirit of spring by stepping into the legendary landscapes of Northern Ireland. From the heights of Slieve Donard to the tranquil Lake Trail at Mount Stewart, our curated walking trails cater to all abilities, inviting you to immerse yourself in nature's blossoming beauty. Strap on your hiking boots and explore iconic sites like the Giant's Causeway, where coastal paths invite the adventurous, and ancient bogs tell tales of history on winding boardwalks. Let our trails guide you on an exploration of nature's renewal, beauty, and historical richness this season.

A couple walk through the Outer Walled Garden at Rowallane Garden

Gardens and parks in Northern Ireland

The National Trust look after the greatest collection of historic gardens and garden plants under single ownership in Europe, if not the world. With Rose Gardens, Walled Gardens and Kitchen Gardens, discover some of the best historic gardens in Northern Ireland. Voted as one of the top ten gardens in the world, Mount Stewart reflects a rich tapestry of design and planting artistry while Castle Ward is home to one of the best examples of a Victorian garden in Ireland.

Surfers on the shore at Portstewart Strand, County Londonderry

Coast and beaches in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland boasts a world-class coastal route. From the rugged headland at Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne to the gently rolling dune landscape of Murlough National Nature Reserve, there are world-famous landmarks and hidden gems to discover along the way. With the famous rope bridge at Carrick-a-Rede and the UNESCO World Heritage Site at the Giant's Causeway dotted on the coast, enjoy bucket list adventures on the north coast of Ireland.

The area surrounding Bishop's Gate Lodge, County Londonderry

Houses and buildings in Northern Ireland

There’s so much to take in when exploring the houses and buildings across Northern Ireland including dramatic clifftop views at Mussenden Temple and an historic costume collection at Springhill.

Walking in Murlough National Nature Reserve, County Down, Northern Ireland

Dog-friendly places in Northern Ireland

With water bowls, hitching posts and plenty of ground to cover, the places in our care aren't just for history-loving hounds. The sandy beaches and woodland trails on offer are a dog-walker's dream. From dog exercise areas to dog-friendly accommodation, discover a slice of canine heaven when visiting with your four-legged friend.

A Climate for Change: Adaptation and the National Trust, sets out the actions we'll be taking in the next stage of our journey to tackle the climate and nature crises. It builds on over two decades of work to ensure coastline, countryside, rivers and historic buildings are ready for and resilient to the current and future consequences of climate change.

A child on their parent's shoulders admiring a view across the water of Stangford Lough from Mount Stewart

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Responding to climate change at Mount Stewart

Climate change is the biggest threat to the coastline, countryside and historic buildings we care for. Our new report reveals how we’re tackling its causes and effects and identifying future hazards. From protecting and planting trees to working with coastal communities, helping people, heritage and nature adapt to a changing climate is at the heart of everything we do. Find out how we’re adapting to rising sea levels and creating new wildlife habitats at Mount Stewart in County Down. Read the full report here.

Two National Trust staff crouching down to inspect the harbour wall at Mullion Cove, Cornwall

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How we're adapting to climate change

We see the effects of climate change all around us. So, what are we going to do about it? Our recent report ‘A Climate for Change’ covers everything we’ve learnt so far about adapting to climate change, and what we suggest can be done to face future challenges. We'll be using lessons from the last century of caring for these places of nature, beauty and history to help us navigate the next.

The master bedroom at Strand House, Northern Ireland

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Be our guest

Wake up to nature's alarm clock or fall asleep to the sounds of the ocean with our places to stay in Northern Ireland. From loughs and lush-green landscapes to legends of giants, discover the northern reaches of the Emerald Isle in out-of-the-ordinary accommodation like a woodland glamping pod or coastal cottage. With new cottages at Carrick-a-Rede and Castle Ward, plan a break to remember.

A pile of three slices of millionaire's shortbread next to a cup of coffee in a cup with a wood-like finish to it.

Feeling peckish?

Tuck into a great day out with our places to eat and drink across Northern Ireland. Enjoy classic scones in the Courtyard Cafe at The Argory, seasonal selected soups at Mount Stewart or a pub lunch at Mary McBride's in Cushendun. From a cosy corner in a quaint tea-room to a traditional pub which was once the oldest in Ireland, dine in a doorway to nature, beauty and history.

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Painting Workshop with Sarah Carrington at the Barmouth

Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne, Castlerock, County Londonderry

Join Sarah Carrington, professional landscape artist, for a workshop in this beautiful and unique landscape.

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Spring Plant Fair

Rowallane Garden, Saintfield, County Down

The Spring Plant Fair returns to Rowallane Garden. Situated in and around the Stableyard, our Garden Team will be joined by an array of specialist plant nurseries from all over Ireland giving you every excuse to find the perfect plant for your...

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Spring Botanical Art Workshop and Garden Tour with Ali Walker and Rob Wilson

Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down

Join artist Ali Walker as she guides you in the art of Botanical drawing from life in Mount Stewart's Beautiful gardens.

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Spring lunchtime recitals with Jonathan Beatty

Castle Coole, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh

Join Jonathan Beatty as he returns to Castle Coole for a series of lunchtime piano recitals.

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Patterson's Spade Mill Guided Tour

Patterson's Spade Mill, Templepatrick, County Antrim

Witness over 250 years of spade making history at the last water powered spade mill, in daily operation, in the UK.

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Bulb Mania - Winter Spring Series

Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down

Come and join a member of the Gardens Team on a tour which will look at seasonal highlights during winter and spring, including trees, flowering shrubs and bulbs.