In our Irish county guide series, we share our top tips, tricks and picks when visiting each Irish county. This time, we’re tacking county Antrim.
County Antrim is most known for the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway and for holding part of the North of Ireland’s capital city, Belfast.
But did you also know that it’s home to the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery at Bushmills? And boasts one of Europe’s most dramatic cliff walks? Take a look at our handy guide to the county for your next visit.
Where to stay
Opening their doors in 2025, this 5-star luxury boutique hotel in Portrush, overlooking the 4th fairway of Royal Portrush Golf Club. Featuring 35 suites, a restaurant with local cuisine, a spa and a private intimate atmosphere near the Causeway Coastal Route, the hotel is perfect for coastal explorers, golfers and families alike.
The Harrison Chambers of Distinction
If you want to stay in the heart of Belfast city, The Harrison Chambers of Distinction is the quirkiest spot you can sleep located in Belfast’s Queen’s Quarter. Owned by Melanie Harrison, this eclectic hotel features 30 uniquely designed rooms themed around famous Belfast figures from Van Morrison to C.S. Lewis, making each room a treat for the eyes. More than that, you can expect a delicious homemade breakfast delivered right to your room, luxurious amenities and a freestanding bath if you choose the right room.
Located a 10 minute drive from Belfast airport, the Dunadry Hotel and Gardens is a 4* hotel, located on the banks of the Six Mile River. A converted historic linen mill, the hotel and its grounds are seeped in history, which you can learn more about as you talk a walk through the property and gardens. What’s more, the hotel has a spa garden and regular events and activities so be sure to keep an eye on their website ahead of planning your visit to see what’s on.
Other accommodation includes:
Where to eat
Restaurants
Orto
Banh Boy Antrim
Sleepy Hollow
The Chubby Cherub
Coppi Restaurant
Stacked
The Coach House
NUCCI
Coffee/Brunch
Third Day Coffee
Hey Darlin’
Caife Ceoil
Blether & Brew
The Boathouse Cafe
Pubs
The Fullerton Arms Ballintoy
The Boyd Arms
The Ramble Inn
What to do
See the coastline like never before, this 3km cliff path is the perfect way to take in the sea, caves and marine life. Originally built in 1902, the area had undergone huge renovations to reopen to the public in 2015 where visitors can walk along the coast through bridges, tunnels and staircases carved directly into the cliffs. The walk itself is slightly challenging for those with mobility issues but walkable for beginners with a basic level of fitness. To pre book tickets, check out here.
The Old Bushmills Distillery is the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery, authorized to distill in 1608. Situated not far from the Giant’s Causeway, guests can enjoy a guided tour of the distillery showcasing it’s 100% malted barley, triple-distilled production process. You can expect to sample some products along the way too, to get the full experience.
The Giant’s Causeway
You can’t visit Antrim and not check out The Giant’s Causeway. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it features around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity 60 million years ago. This geological wonder is a sight to behold also offering coastal walking trails and a visitor centre.
Anything else I should know?
Aside from driving, there are multiple ways to get to the country from the Republic of Ireland via train, bus and plane with the nearest airport located in Belfast.
For more Irish County Guides, click here.
