County Antrim
County Antrim is a place where there are endless amounts of activities, scenery and history. Antrim surrounds the North East coast of Northern Ireland and Belfast City holds most of its population which is currently over 600,000. With the Glens of Antrim, the Giants Causeway, Dunluce Castle, Slemish Mountain, Carrick-a-Rede, Bushmills Distillery and many more Antrim is one of the very popular counties in the North of Ireland with tourists.
Whether your visit is for adventure or leisure, you will not have difficulties in finding things to see or do. For those who prefer the more active holidays why not try your hand at Scuba Diving at Belfast Lough and around the North Antrim coast or take a surfing lesson in Ballymoney? For visitors who are interested in a more relaxing and leisurely trip to Antrim, take a trip to cross the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge or visit one of the impressive castles that Country Antrim has to offer.
One castle which is very popular with those who visit Antrim is Dunluce Castle and is also a favourite for its location and the scenery surrounding it. Draped upon the edge of the cliff it dominates the sea view and is most dramatic even in the worst days when the weather is nothing but wind and rain. It is thought to have been built by Richard De Burgh, the second Earle of Ulster, sometime during the 13th century. It was passed down through a few families and survived two sieges; however it would be a terrible storm which would be the ruin of the fortress. With sea, rain and wind battering at the walls the castles kitchen fell into the sea bringing seven kitchen staff plunging to their death in 1639. It wasn’t until 1690, when the current owners became unable to keep the castle that it was abandoned and it lay vacant until 1928 when it came under ownership of the Environment and Heritage Service who continue to preserve it today.
For adventurers, families, or just day trippers County Antrim has a lot to offer. It is one of Northern Ireland’s most action packed counties and has so much to see and do that it will entertain the youngest of the young and the oldest of the old. Whether you are looking to relax in a four star health spa or take an exhilarating walk along the sandy coast, this part of Ireland ensures a thrilling break away.