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 exploring the house dressed for Christmas at Mount Stewart

Christmas in Northern Ireland

'Tis the season to be jolly so spend Christmas at the places in our care. Make joy-filled memories this festive season with our selection box of delightful days out and enchanting evening experiences. See Santa at Castle Ward, browse the Christmas market at Rowallane Garden and be wowed by the Winter Illuminations at The Argory.

Visitors walking their dog on a lead in the formal garden at Mount Stewart with a view of the house in the background

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.

Our new report, 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.

Find events and activities at places in our care.

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.

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.

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Santa Letter Trail

Rowallane Garden, Saintfield, County Down

Have you written a letter to Santa? Come and post it with us to make sure your Christmas wishes make their way to the North Pole in time for the big day. Follow the arrows across the garden and solve clues along the way to work out Santa’s...

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Rockin’ Robin Festive family trail

Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down

Embark on Mount Stewart's festive trail, circling the serene lake. Count cheerful robins in a family adventure that blends nature and tradition. Celebrate the season's joy surrounded by winter wonders. Join us for a magical holiday experience!

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Castlereagh: Life & Legacy Exhibition

Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down

A new exhibition to mark the 200th anniversary of the death of Viscount Castlereagh (1769-1822) opens at Mount Stewart from 8 August 2022.

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Tuesday Trails

Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne, Castlerock, County Londonderry

Social walks with our volunteers

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Deck out your Gingerbread Man

Rowallane Garden, Saintfield, County Down

Your little elves can use their awesome decorating skills to design and decorate their scrumptious gingerbread man.

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Georgian Christmastide at Castle Ward

Castle Ward, Downpatrick, County Down

This festive season, we invite you to step inside Castle Ward and experience the Mansion dressed in tableau for a traditional 18th century Christmas.

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Temple of the Winds - Winter Solstice - Sound Healing Spa Retreat Experience and Workshop

Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down

Join Tessa Ann from The Sound Healing Spa for this Winter Solstice retreat and workshop. Immerse yourself in the magical energy of Mount Stewart’s Temple of the Winds as Tessa delivers a beautiful sound healing experience and workshop.