Things to see and do in Northern Ireland

With world-famous places to visit and lesser-known hidden gems, enjoy many of the best things to see and do in Northern Ireland with a visit to National Trust places and spaces. From the north coast of Ireland to the tranquility of the Fermanagh lakelands, build a bucket list of adventures with these great days out near you.

View of the Giant's Causeway

Visit the Giant's Causeway 

Steeped in myth and magic, the Giant's Causeway is a must-see in Northern Ireland. This world-famous wonder is Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover the stories behind this legendary landscape with a guided walk or audio tour. Booking for Giant's Causeway Visitor Experience is essential.

See the Giant's Causeway
Mussenden Temple perched on top of the cliff

Visit Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne 

Wander into the wild cliff-top garden amongst the ruins of Downhill House. Set on a rugged headland, Downhill Demesne is home to one of the most photographed buildings in Ireland. Perched on the cliff-face, 120ft high above the Atlantic Ocean is Mussenden Temple.

See Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne
Mussenden Temple at Downhill Demesne Play Video
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Causeway Coast road trip

A road trip along the Causeway Coast leads to many of Northern Ireland’s best places to visit. With so many must-see sights dotted along the way, discover nature, beauty and history at every turn. Travelling next to the wild Atlantic ocean, set off on one of the world's best coastal drives with an epic road trip along the world-famous north coast of Ireland. Voted the number 1 region in the world to visit by Lonely Planet in 2018, discover world famous locations like the Giants Causeway (Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site), Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Mussenden Temple.

Mount Stewart House

World-class gardens at Mount Stewart 

Judged as one of the top 10 gardens in the world and short-listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the gardens at Mount Stewart are world-class. Located on the shores of Strangford Lough, the gardens enjoy a unique micro-climate which allows a surprising array of exotic and rare plants to thrive. With a Shamrock Garden, Spanish Garden, Italian Garden and stunning lake walk, escape to this horticultural haven by booking online.

Get away to a great garden at Mount Stewart
Walking towards the saddle of the Mournes, Slieve Donard

Walk the Mourne Mountains 

Voted as one of the top walks in Northern Ireland, Slieve Donard sits at the heart of the Mourne Mountains in County Down. As the highest mountain in Ulster, hiking to the top of Slieve Donard tops many bucket lists. Criss-crossing its heady heights are well-trodden paths and trails which lead walkers to the highest point in the north of Ireland. As you climb, look out for the famous Mourne Wall, a 22-mile dry stone wall that navigates its way across 15 summits.

Take a hike the Mournes
The 16th century tower house at Castle Ward

Visit the Game of Thrones set 

Immerse yourself in the world of HBO's Game of Thrones as you explore the farmyard and surround landscape. Keen fans will spot the locations of several key scenes from season one.

Experience Winterfell
The old castle ruins at Crom

Go wildlife spotting at Crom, Fermanagh 

Cruise towards Crom and leave the world behind as you relax by the tranquil shores of Lough Erne. With more cuckoos than cars, enjoy picture-perfect walks in one of Ireland's most important conservation areas. Boasting land and lough, let time stand still as you wander its ancient yew trees and castle ruins spotting beautiful butterflies, fallow deer and even an elusive pine marten. Book your visit online.

Find peace at Crom
The Walled Garden at Rowallane, County Down

Rowallane Garden, County Down

This beautiful plantsman’s garden was laid out in the mid-19th century and features all types of gardening enjoyed by the Victorians including a large rock garden, semi-natural gardens, wild flowers and a formal walled garden. There's also a unique collection of conifers and an outstanding collection of acid-loving plants.

Children at Springhill, County Londonderry.
Springhill   County Londonderry

Springhill, County Londonderry

Left to bring up their children after the suicide of her husband, George Lenox-Conyngham, his second wife Olivia was so distraught and guilt-ridden that her ghost is believed to roam this atmospheric house to this day. Despite the sad story, staff believe her to be a benign presence, seeming fond of children, although it can be unnerving to see her walk through closed doors.

Spot ghosts at Springhill