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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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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.

The Formal Garden at Mount Stewart, County Down. 

Houses and buildings in Northern Ireland 

Whether built through a martial disagreement, family rivalry or even a quirky stipulation in a will, each of the houses and buildings in our care has its own unique story to share. From Castle Coole, one of the greatest Neo-classical country houses in Ireland, to The Crown Bar, a masterpiece in pub architecture, intriguing items and fascinating finds speak of centuries ceased and capture a snapshot in time.

View of the south & east fronts of The Argory, County Armagh, Northern Ireland

Walking in Northern Ireland 

Soak up the beauty of Northern Ireland's landscapes this summer. From the wide open sands of Portstewart Strand to the shady woodland trails at Castle Ward, our walking routes offer something special for every pace and every summer adventure. Follow paths through the places we care for and discover colourful gardens, thriving wildlife, coastal views and unforgettable days out under sunny skies.

Mussenden Temple

Coast and beaches in Northern Ireland 

Summer is the perfect time to explore Northern Ireland's spectacular coastline. From the dramatic clifftop views at Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne to the sweeping dunes of Murlough National Nature Reserve, there's plenty to discover. Cross the famous rope bridge at Carrick-a-Rede, marvel at the Giant's Causeway, and enjoy unforgettable coastal adventures along the north coast of Ireland.

Children bodyboarding at Portstewart Strand, County Londonderry

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.

Walking in Murlough National Nature Reserve, County Down

Summer starts here

From must-see summer highlights to activities for all ages, we've rounded up the best ways to make the most of the longer days and warmer weather. Find inspiration for your next adventure and start planning a summer to remember.

Our partnership with Pokémon 

Our new partnership with Pokémon will bring play and discovery to the places we look after this year. Families can explore Pokémon trails, collect sticker books and more.

Pikachu, a Pokémon character, in the garden at Nymans in West Sussex

Latest news

Home of Springwatch 2026 

We’re delighted to welcome Springwatch 2026 to Crom Estate - broadcasting live in Co Fermanagh for the very first time. With ancient woodlands, flower-rich meadows and the tranquil waters of Lough Erne, this extraordinary landscape is one of Northern Ireland’s richest wildlife havens.

Badger at Crom Estate, County Fermanagh

Nature = Future NI 

We’ve launched a campaign to persuade the NI Government to step up the pace to help our wildlife recover and put in place important nature protections. We needed to act because the pace and scale of action from our devolved Government does not match the urgent need. The recent nature strategy plan lacks clear targets and investment, whilst the Executive hasn’t acted on the recent Environmental Protection Review.

Nature=Future NI

Places to stay in Northern Ireland

Be our guest 

Escape to Northern Ireland this summer and stay somewhere special. From coastal cottages to woodland glamping pods, our unique accommodation at places like Carrick-a-Rede and Castle Ward offers the perfect base for exploring stunning landscapes, rich heritage and unforgettable days out.

Rainbow over holiday cottages at Crom, County Fermanagh

Places to eat in Northern Ireland

Feeling peckish? 

Refresh this summer with a visit to our places to eat and drink across Northern Ireland. As the days grow longer and gardens begin to bloom, there’s nothing better than pausing for a coffee, a light lunch, or something freshly baked after a spring walk. From welcoming tea-rooms to historic cafés, enjoy simple seasonal food and a friendly atmosphere, all set among the landscapes and heritage you love.

A close-up of a child biting into a scone at Mottisfont, Hampshire

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.

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.

Aerial view of a mix of deciduous and evergreen trees being planted as part of a Trees for Climate programme in partnership with England's Community Forests at Lunt, Liverpool

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.

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

Upcoming events

Storytelling Sessions at Rowallane Garden 

Rowallane Garden, Saintfield, County Down

Wrap up warm and snuggle into a story in our second hand bookshop at Rowallane Garden.

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3 Jun to 2 Dec 2026
at 11:30 to 12:00+ 6 other dates or times

Summer Series Gardener Walks 

Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down

Explore the famous Mount Stewart gardens with our knowledgeable garden team.

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3 Jun to 26 Aug 2026
at 14:00 to 16:00+ 5 other dates or times

Volunteer Led Walk 

Castle Ward, Downpatrick, County Down

Discover more to Castle Ward on one of our volunteer led walks.

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4 Jun 2026
at 11:00 to 13:00

Rowallane Book Fair 

Rowallane Garden, Saintfield, County Down

One for the book lovers! Join us on 6 June for a day filled with books of all kinds!

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6 Jun 2026
at 10:00 to 16:00

Mount Stewart Stories Day 

Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down

Come along to learn about the history of Mount Stewart and share your own memories of the place. We want to hear from you!

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6 Jun 2026
at 11:00 to 13:00

Living History Saturdays 

Castle Ward, Downpatrick, County Down

Meet Georgian characters from the past in the House, see how they live and find out what their days were like.

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6 Jun to 3 Oct 2026
at 11:00 to 15:00+ 4 other dates or times

BeHere Exhibition 

Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down

BeHere community members have created an exhibition about their experience of belonging and Mount Stewart.

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on
6 Jun to 3 Jul 2026
at 11:00 to 16:00+ 27 other dates or times

Community beach clean at Portstewart Strand 

Portstewart Strand, Portstewart, County Londonderry

Soak in fantastic views and fresh air whilst helping to keep this beautiful beach clean with a twist !

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6 Jun 2026
at 14:00 to 16:00
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.