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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Family-friendly places in Northern Ireland

Discover the best family-friendly places to visit in Northern Ireland this autumn with a day out at the places in our care. Enjoy crisp, colourful woodland walks that spark curiosity and natural play areas perfect for burning off energy. As the vibrant autumn leaves fall, family adventures await around every corner. If the weather turns chilly or damp, take shelter in our cosy, family-friendly cafés and indulge in some seasonal treats. Be sure to check property websites for up-to-date opening times and special autumn events.

Walking in Northern Ireland

Fall in love with Northern Ireland’s legendary landscapes this autumn and enjoy the warmth of the season’s welcome. From the golden sands of Portstewart Strand to the peaceful, leaf-strewn woodland trails at Florence Court, our walking routes offer something for everyone. Whether you’re strolling or hiking, iconic sites like the Giant's Causeway invite you to explore coastal paths lined with autumn’s rich hues, while ancient bogs share their stories along winding boardwalks. This autumn, let the trails through our cared-for places lead you on a journey through vibrant colours, crisp air, and the rich heritage of Northern Ireland.

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.

View through an arch in the garden wall at Florence Court, County Fermanagh

Coast and beaches in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland’s world-class coastal route is a journey through dramatic landscapes and timeless beauty. 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.

Sanderling pair dipping their toes in the water at Portstewart Strand, County Londonderry

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.

A family of four walking in the garden at Castle Ward, County Down, with the house in the background

Dog-friendly places in Northern Ireland

Get your dog's tail wagging with pooch-friendly places across Northern Ireland. As the air turns crisp and leaves crunch underpaw, the places in our care are perfect for autumn adventures together. With water bowls, hitching posts and plenty of golden woodland trails and breezy beaches to explore, they’re a dog-walker’s dream. From exercise areas to dog-friendly accommodation, discover a slice of canine heaven when visiting with your four-legged friend this autumn. Here’s all you need to know about dog-friendly places in Northern Ireland.

Be our guest

Embrace the beauty of autumn with a cosy getaway in Northern Ireland, where you can wake up to nature’s golden glow or fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the ocean. From tranquil loughs to legendary landscapes, discover the northern reaches of the Emerald Isle in unique accommodations like woodland glamping pods or charming coastal cottages. With new cottages available at Carrick-a-Rede and Castle Ward, it’s the perfect time to plan an autumn break to remember, surrounded by stunning scenery and rich heritage.

The Potter's Cottage and the surrounding area, County Down

Feeling peckish?

Tuck into a great day out with our places to eat and drink across Northern Ireland. As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, settle into a cosy corner for warming soups, freshly baked scones and hearty seasonal fare. Whether it’s a rustic tea-room filled with the scent of autumn spices or a historic inn offering comfort beside the fire, dine surrounded by nature’s golden glow and centuries of heritage.

A meal on the table in the Tea-room with a view of the counter

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.

The house seen through the formal garden in autumn at Mount Stewart

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.