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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.

Places to visit

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Bluebells at Castle Ward

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.

Easter Highlights

Celebrate the joys of spring and the spirit of renewal with our Easter events across Northern Ireland.

Children exploring the gardens, Mount Stewart

Easter egg hunt at Mount Stewart 

Explore the Easter trail and discover the fascinating family history and impressive collection indoors at Mount Stewart.

Family in the natural play area at Rowallane Garden

Easter egg hunt at Rowallane Garden 

Make your way along the trail and find nature-inspired activities for the whole family.

A family exploring the gardens at Castle Ward, Co Down, Northern Ireland, in summer

Easter egg hunt at Castle Ward 

Discover circus-inspired activities this Easter at Castle Ward.

A young boy holding an Easter egg beside his mum on a sunny day in Fermanagh

Easter egg hunt at Florence Court 

Discover the Easter Bunny’s giant basket, enjoy traditional Easter games, hunt for signs of spring and much more.

Easter Fun Trail

Easter egg hunt at Castle Coole 

Explore the grounds of Castle Coole and enjoy traditional Easter games, hunt for signs of spring and much more.

Easter Trail Springhill

Easter Trail at Springhill 

Gather your family this Easter and invite them to a spring escapade they won't forget at Springhill.

Easter Egg Hunt

Easter egg hunt at Crom 

This spring, treat the whole family to a world of adventure at Crom on an Easter trail.

Easter Trail at The Argory

Easter Trail at The Argory 

This Easter come and explore nature trails packed with fun and games at The Argory.

A Climate for Change

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.

Places to stay in Northern Ireland

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.

Place to eat in Northern Ireland

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.

Upcoming events

Event

Spring Equinox Yoga Experience at Mussenden Temple with Luna Yoga 

Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne, Castlerock, County Londonderry

SOLD OUT Mark the spring equinox with an evening of yoga at the iconic Mussenden Temple. Celebrate the lengthening days and receding darkness with Luna Yoga.

Event summary

on
20 Mar 2024
at
18:30 to 20:30
Event

World Water Day - Patterson's Spade Mill On the Road 

Divis and the Black Mountain, near Belfast, County Antrim

Celebrate World Water Day by joining us for a 'hands on' experience with Patterson's Spade Mill, and learn about the history of the rivers of Divis & the Black Mountain that feed the old mill race.

Event summary

on
22 Mar 2024
at
11:00 to 15:30
Event

Swim Ulster's Open Water Swimming Masterclass 

Cushendun, County Antrim

Come join Swim Ulster's Open Water Swimming Masterclass to improve your skills and techniques in the open water. This class is run over two days with participants attending both sessions.

Event summary

on
23 Mar to 24 Mar 2024
at
09:45 to 10:45
+ 1 other date or time
Event

Easter egg hunt at Mount Stewart 

Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down

This spring, treat the whole family to a world of adventure at Mount Stewart on an Easter trail.

Event summary

on
23 Mar to 3 Apr 2024
at
10:00 to 15:30
+ 11 other dates or times
Event

Easter Egg Hunt at Castle Ward 

Castle Ward, Downpatrick, County Down

This spring, treat the whole family to a world of adventure at Castle Ward on an Easter trail.

Event summary

on
23 Mar to 7 Apr 2024
at
10:00 to 16:00
+ 15 other dates or times
Event

Easter egg hunt at Rowallane Garden 

Rowallane Garden, Saintfield, County Down

This spring, treat the whole family to a world of adventure at Rowallane Garden on an Easter trail.

Event summary

on
23 Mar to 7 Apr 2024
at
10:00 to 16:00
+ 15 other dates or times
Event

1-Day Blacksmithing Courses on Saturday 9th and 23rd March 2024 

Patterson's Spade Mill, Templepatrick, County Antrim

Take time out of your hustle and bustle and become a blacksmith.

Event summary

on
23 Mar 2024
at
10:00 to 16:30
Event

6 week Community Gardening Workshop 

Springhill, Magherafelt, County Londonderry

Springhill are teaming up with The Conservation Volunteers to offer a 6 week Community Gardening Workshop in conjunction with the TCV’s Green Gym Project.

Event summary

on
23 Mar to 30 Mar 2024
at
10:30 to 12:30
+ 1 other date or time
Visitors at the Giant's Causeway, County Antrim

Discover more in Northern Ireland.

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