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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Celebrate summer with the National Trust - longer days, fresh air, and unforgettable moments in nature.

Girl playing at Mount Stewart Summer of Play

Family-friendly places in Northern Ireland

Discover the best family-friendly places to visit in Northern Ireland this summer with a day out at the places in our care. Enjoy sunny outdoor trails that ignite inquisitive minds and natural play areas perfect for letting off steam. When the summer sun shines, family adventures are boundless. If a sudden summer shower appears, take refuge in our family-friendly cafés for some well-deserved treats. Remember to check property websites for specific opening times and events.

Summer of Play

Discover the places hosting Summer of Play events this season across Northern Ireland

A view towards grass-covered cliffs along the Portmuck coastline, Islandmagee peninsula, County Antrim. Two visitors are visible walking along the shoreline in the distance.

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Discover Hidden Gems: Northern Ireland's Secluded Coastal & Countryside Car Parks

Soak up the sunshine and set off on a summer adventure! Whether you're picnicking by the sea, hiking across blooming headlands, or chasing sunsets along the coast, our car parks are your perfect starting point. Discover peaceful places to pause, play, and reconnect with nature across Northern Ireland’s most stunning landscapes.

A grassy path, with two people on it, leads between trees towards water on the Castle Ward loughside trail at Castle Ward, Northern Ireland

Walking in Northern Ireland

Step into Summer in the Legendary Landscapes of Northern Ireland. From the golden dunes of Portstewart Strand to the peaceful paths of Florence Court, explore walking trails that suit all abilities. Whether you're after a short stroll or a scenic ramble, summer is the perfect time to get outside and discover somewhere new.

Sculpted harp hedge in the Shamrock Garden

Gardens and parks in Northern Ireland

Explore the vibrant beauty of Castle Ward and the enchanting charm of Florence Court garden this summer. Whether you seek a tranquil retreat or a picturesque setting for sunny adventures, our gardens provide the perfect sanctuary.

View of the Temple overlooking Temple Water at Castle Ward, 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.

Two boys jumping off sand dunes on a sunny summer day with blue skies at Portstewart Strand in Northern Ireland

Coast and beaches in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland’s world-class coastal route comes alive in spring. From the rugged headland of Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne to the softly greening dunes of Murlough National Nature Reserve, the landscape awakens with colour and life. Along the way, discover both world-famous landmarks and hidden gems, from the iconic rope bridge at Carrick-a-Rede to the awe-inspiring basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway.

Visitors sitting on a stone bench with a dog in the garden at Mount Stewart, with pink blossom on the ground and a view of the garden and house in the background

Dog-friendly places in Northern Ireland

Get your dog's tail wagging, with pooch friendly places across Northern Ireland. From dog exercise areas to dog-friendly accommodation, discover a slice of canine heaven when visiting with your four-legged friend this summer.

Rose Cottage in the garden at Florence Court, County Fermanagh

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Be our guest

Savour the warmth of summer with a relaxing getaway in Northern Ireland, where golden evenings stretch on and the coast calls you to unwind. From sun-dappled loughs to lush green landscapes in full bloom, discover the northern reaches of the Emerald Isle in unique accommodations like cosy woodland glamping pods or charming coastal cottages. It’s the perfect time to plan a summer escape filled with sweeping views, seasonal serenity, and rich heritage.

A table set for lunch with sandwiches, cake and drinks.

Feeling peckish?

Tuck into a great day out with our places to eat and drink across Northern Ireland. Enjoy classic scones in traditional tearooms and seasonal soups in courtyard cafes. With indoor and outdoor seating, dine in the doorway to nature, beauty and history.

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.

View across the lake at Mount Stewart with green trees on the other side and a glimpse of a turret between the trees

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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.

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.

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Event

Hill Pictures: Belfast Photo Festival Exhibition

Divis and the Black Mountain, near Belfast, County Antrim

Led by Belfast-based photojournalist and conservation educator Polly Garnett, Hill Pictures captures a year of activity on the Belfast Hills—celebrating the people, places, and stories that define this landscape.

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Summer of Play 2025 at Castle Ward

Castle Ward, Downpatrick, County Down

Experience a summer of medieval adventure at Castle Ward! This summer, we've set aside the lawn games! From 5 July - 31 August, enjoy thrilling challenges, interactive quests, and fantasy fun!