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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.

Walled Garden at Rowallane Garden, County Down 

Houses and buildings in Northern Ireland 

As autumn arrives and the leaves begin to turn, discover the stories behind the houses and buildings in our care. Whether built through a martial disagreement, family rivalry or even a quirky stipulation in a will, each has its own unique tale 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 past and capture a snapshot in time.

NT24YT43  Family autumn day at Castle Ward in autumn, County Down  ©National Trust Images/Brian Morrison

Walking in Northern Ireland 

Discover the colour of Northern Ireland’s landscapes this autumn. From the golden sands of Portstewart Strand to the colourful woodland trails at The Argory, our walking routes offer something special for every pace and every autumn adventure. Follow paths through the places we care for and discover glowing gardens, changing leaves, thriving wildlife, coastal views and unforgettable days out beneath crisp autumn skies.

A family in the grounds of The Argory, County Armagh

Coast and beaches in Northern Ireland 

Autumn is a beautiful 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 as the seasons change. Feel the fresh sea air at Carrick-a-Rede, marvel at the Giant’s Causeway and enjoy crisp coastal walks, wild views and unforgettable autumn adventures along the north coast of Ireland.

Visitors walking along the clifftops at Downhill Demesne and Hezlett House with Mussenden Temple, Country Londonderry

Dog-friendly places in Northern Ireland 

With crunchy leaves, woodland trails and plenty of space to roam, autumn is the perfect time for adventures with your four-legged friend. From scenic walks to dog-friendly places to stay, make the most of your visit with the National Trust Pooch Passport and discover a little slice of canine heaven this season.

Visitors playing with their dogs at the designated Dog Exercise Field at Rowallane Garden, 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 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

Walk & Sketch Session with Sarah Carrington 

Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne, Castlerock, County Londonderry

Discover the beautiful landscape and buildings of Downhill Demesne in this walk & sketch session with local artist Sarah Carrington.

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on
12 Sep 2026
at 10:00 to 12:30

European Heritage Open Day 2026 

Castle Coole, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh

Enjoy free entry to Castle Coole as part of the European Heritage Open Day weekend.

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on
12 Sep 2026
at 10:00 to 16:00

European Heritage Open Day 2026 

Florence Court, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh

Explore Florence Court for free as part of European Heritage Open Day (EHOD).

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on
12 Sep 2026
at 10:00 to 16:00

Rowallane Book Fair 

Rowallane Garden, Saintfield, County Down

One for the book lovers! Join us over European Heritage Open Weekend for a day filled with books of all kinds!

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on
12 Sep 2026
at 10:00 to 16:00

European Heritage Open Day 2026 

Crom, Newtownbutler, County Fermanagh

Enjoy free entry to Crom as part of European Heritage Open Day weekend.

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on
12 Sep 2026
at 10:00 to 16:00

European Heritage Weekend (EHOD) 2026 

Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down

Join us this EHOD and explore Mount Stewart, with free entry for all visitors on 12 and 13 September 2026. Come and meet our staff and volunteers, and learn more about the amazing places we look after.

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12 Sep to 13 Sep 2026
at 10:00 to 17:00+ 1 other date or time

Earth Photo Exhibition 

Castle Ward, Downpatrick, County Down

Visit Castle Ward to see a stunning selection of shortlisted images from our world-leading international competition dedicated to engaging with still and moving image makers sharing the issues affecting the climate and life on our planet.

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12 Sep to 30 Sep 2026
at 10:00 to 17:00+ 18 other dates or times

European Heritage Open Weekend 

Rowallane Garden, Saintfield, County Down

Experience all that Rowallane Garden has to offer this European Heritage Open Day Weekend, for free.

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on
12 Sep to 13 Sep 2026
at 10:00 to 18:00+ 1 other date or time
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.