NI4kid’s rundown of the top kid-friendly days out in Antrim
Stretching from the very top of the island, along Mid-Ulster and out to the Irish sea in the East, County Antrim is packed with some of the best family attractions in Northern Ireland.
Enjoy a day out in Belfast City Centre, or take the coast road up to Portrush taking in all the sights and scenery along the way as well as some of the region’s best known visitor attractions.
There’s something magical about this part of the country from the rugged cliff tops dotted along the North Coast to the sweeping waterfalls of the Glens of Antrim. Antrim’s positioning in the North East of the island offers spectacular views across both the Atlantic Ocean and the Irish Sea. While these seascapes sparkle in the summer months, the dramatic coastline provides the perfect backdrop for winter walks and blowing off steam as a family. If that’s not your cup of tea, the county is also brimming with indoor and outdoor attractions for kids that will delight, stimulate, and engage curious minds.
1. Antrim Castle Gardens
At over 400 years old, Antrim Castle Gardens is a delight for all members of the family. The estate is only a short drive from Antrim Area Hospital and once inside the tranquillity of the grounds it is easy to forget that just outside the gates is a bustling town. Take the opportunity to breathe in the beauty of the gardens, which feature years of intricate design choices, before strolling alongside the Yew Tree Pond. There are plenty of sprawling lawns to let kids run free and discover what it means to be close to nature. The Motte castle, a top a mound, is irresistible to young climbers and is the perfect location in which to imagine yourself as an 13thcentury knight. Complete your visit with a stop at the Courtyard Café which will provide some much-needed refreshments after all the walking.
2. The Giant’s Causeway
It wouldn’t be a list on the top kid-friendly days out in Antrim without mentioning the jewel in Northern Ireland’s crown and the country’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site. As myth would have it, the 40,000 basalt columns were placed there by Irish Giant, Finn McCool, as a way to cross the channel to Scotland to meet his rival. Kids will adore climbing the hexagonal stones and uncovering the myth and legend interwoven within the scenery. The on-site visitors centre offers guided, audio tours and carparking.
3. Antrim Cinema
When the weather is wet and windy there’s nothing else for it than a trip to the cinema. Antrim Ominiplex is a 10-screen cinema which provides the ultimate in comfort for viewing the latest films and rereleases. The Antrim location has a OmniplexMaxx screen which uses sight, sound, and feel to fully immerse the viewer in the movie. There are also 3D performances too for those that like to experience a film to the fullest. The fully stocked concession stand selling freshly made popcorn, nachos, sweets, and soft drinks is the perfect accompaniment to round off the perfect day out in Antrim.
4. Junction One
With visitors travelling from far and wide for Antrim’s premier shopping location, there really is something for everyone at Junction One. If visiting with kids make sure you stop by The Entertainer and The Works to pick up toys, books, crafts, and more. The site recently welcomed a Dobbies’ flagship store complete with Little Seedlings soft play. This new children’s indoor play area joins the centre’s beloved Sensory Kids. As Northern Ireland’s first fully accessible soft play, Sensory Kids provides sensory experiences for all children in addition to a safe space for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder to explore the world around them. If that’s not enough for a full day out, the Young Drivers Zone is sure to be a hit. Designed for children ages 2-8, hop on a tractor or digger and ride around the specially designed road featuring bridges, humps, roundabouts, and overtaking lanes.
5. Rosepark Farm, Ballymoney
Rosepark is a family-run farm set on 70 acres of land in Ballymoney. Home to a wide range of farm animals, reptiles, kittens, and more, one of the biggest draws of this attraction is its beautiful grounds. Explore the walkways adorned with 4,000 roses or search for fairies in the enchanted forest before visiting Northern Ireland’s first lagoon beach complete with sandy shores and clear, sparkling water. Children under five will adore the indoor play barn with bouncy castle and soft play, and farmers in training can have a go on the ride-on tractors and dumpers. Don’t forget to stop by the Giant’s Chair on your travels and walk the plank to the Pirate Ship, if you dare!
6. World of Owls
When in Antrim, a visit to Randalstown for World of Owls is a must. A conservation site for owls, birds of prey, and exotic animals, you won’t find anything else like this in Northern Ireland. Set in Randalstown Forest, there is an indoor and outdoor display area through which you can see these magnificent birds and the woodland backdrop plays host to local fallow deer, squirrels, and a range of wild birds. Designed for a full or half day visit, there is no need to book unless travelling in a group. Amenities include a shop, café, and children’s play area featuring a slide and swings.
7. Carnfunnock Country Park
Children are at the forefront of this attraction making it a top choice for families. The Carnfunnock Family Funzone comes alive over the summer months with an unrivalled range of activities to entertain children of varying ages. Take a ride on the miniature railway or try your hand at mini-golf. There are walk on water balls and bungee trampolines for the more adventurous, as well as remote control trucks and boats for the transport lovers. Back into the main park and there is a network of way-marked walking trails, a maze, walled garden, and notable structures including an 1800’s ice house and twelfth century motte.
8. Carrickfergus Castle
On the shores of Belfast Lough lies a key Antrim landmark; Carrickfergus Castle. Of Norman origin, the castle was in operation until 1928 but is now open to visitors year-round. Explore the well-preserved structure, taking in The Great Hall, and the many exhibits on show. Play a game of Giant Chess of use the props provided to dress up like people who once roamed the halls of Carrickfergus Castle. There’s plenty to keep the kids occupied including an education room and a sensory room designed especially with younger visitors in mind.
9. Belfast Zoo
Nestled in the heart of Cave Hill, Belfast Zoo has over 500 animals and 55 acres to explore making it an exciting day out for all the family. Get up close and personal with animals from all over the world; from the creepy crawlies in the reptile enclosure right up to the giraffes which can grow up to three times the height of humans, and even witness feeding times throughout the day! Visitors can pick up a tasty snack at the Zoo’s two cafes or pack a picnic and enjoy a rest while the kids burn off some steam at the Adventurer’s Learning Centre playground.
10. Northern Ireland’s Capital City
Within County Antrim you’ll find Northern Ireland’s capital city; Belfast. Derived from the Irish phrase ‘Béal Feirste’, meaning the mouth of the river, the city is flanked by Belfast Lough and the River Lagan. With world-class shopping, theatre, cinema, and eateries, there’s plenty of city sights to keep families entertained. Younger visitors will especially enjoy the Ulster Museum for its interactive discovery centres that explore art, history, and nature, followed by a walk in the Botanic Gardens and a visit to the Palm House. Into the Titanic Quarter and Titanic Belfast, taking in the sights of HMS Caroline and the SS Nomadic, is a must-visit, along with W5, and Belfast’s Window on Wildlife. Take a trip to Belfast Castle, and burn off any pent-up energy with a climb up Cave Hill that will reveal unparalleled views across the city.
11. National Trust – Carrick-a-Rede
For a day out like no other, Carrick-a-Rede is one of Antrim’s showstopping attractions. The site features a coastal walk, clifftop views, and a rope bridge that spans 20 metres to Carrick-a-Rede island. Thought to date back to 1755, the rope bridge was constructed by fishermen in order to reach a cottage on the island. There is a café on site which provides some indoor seating as well as the option to purchase takeaway hot drinks, snacks, and ice cream.
12. The Galgorm Castle Fairy Trail
An enchanted forest set in the grounds of Galgorm Castle is home to a range of mystical creatures. The trail is two hours of fun as you follow a map that takes you on a magical journey around the estate searching for fairies. There are 14 points of interest along the way with interactive clues that will lead you to discover what lies beyond the woods. Find the troll swamp, the lost fairy village, and the wizard school all while discovering a little bit of magic along the way.
13. Stormont
For a more educational experience, take a free tour of Northern Ireland’s parliament buildings to find out more about the history and heritage contained within its walls. Guided tours are open to the public at 12.00 and 14.00, between Wednesday to Friday. There are many ways to take in the beauty of Stormont Estate but entering through the front gates and walking the one-mile road that leads to the steps gives visitors a greater sense of the size and scale of the impressive parliament buildings. Afterwards, explore the walking trails through the grounds or pay a visit to Mo Mowlam Play Park where you will find multi-sensory areas and equipment specially designed so children of all abilities can play alongside each other.
14. Ulster Aviation Society
A tour of the Ulster Aviation Society is a must for families with budding plane enthusiasts. You can explore the society’s 50 strong aircraft and vehicle collection yourself or take a guided tour led by one of the organisation’s passionate volunteers who will regale you with stories and answer any questions you might have. The stars of the show are two Second World War Hangers which can be viewed if prebooked via email. Tours for under 10 people are free, although the organisation is a charity, and donations are welcome.
15. Rathlin Island
A day trip to Rathlin Island is one of the best ways to spend a day out with the family. A ferry from Ballycastle Harbour to the island takes approximately 30-40 minutes and runs at regular intervals. Rathlin Island is Northern Ireland’s northernmost point and in the summer months you will be able to spot swarths of puffins and other seabirds that make the island their home. Inhabited by less than 200 residents, the serene tranquillity of the landscape has to be seen to be believed. Kids will enjoy the island two main attractions; the Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre and the Boathouse Centre.
16. Glenariff Forest Park
An area of stunning natural beauty, Glenariff is one of the nine sites that make up the Glens of Antrim. The waterfall trail is 3km and features a boardwalk that winds through a National Nature Reserve, passing three waterfalls on the way, and offering up plenty of opportunities for family photographs. There is an optional detour on the waterfall walk that includes a river crossing over the Rainbow Bridge with beautiful waterscapes. If taking one of the trails around the forest, keep your eyes peeled for glimpses of the wildlife that make Glenariff their home including the red squirrel, hen harrier, and Irish hare.
17. Whitehead Railway Museum
Step on the footplate of a 140-year-old engine or board a 1950’s carriage, all made possible by the Railway Preservation Society. This five-gallery museum provides plenty to keep transport-lovers engaged with interactive displays and dress-up so you can get a full taste of what Ireland’s railway network used to be. There are also restoration workshops where you can see how historic vehicles are brought back to life. Open Thursday-Saturday from 10am-2.30pm, you can explore the displays at your leisure or avail of a guided tour. There is an on-site café for refreshments.
18. Honeybees Playtown, Ballymena
Honeybees Playtown is an immersive and interactive experience for younger children to push their imaginations to the limit. The town is made up of 10 custom playhouses resembling familiar businesses, such as a bakery, hospital, pizzeria, and fire station, situated around a toddler-themed town square. There is even a construction zone with ride-on diggers and a tunnel slide to keep those builders-in-training entertained. Most suited for children under 7, this is a fantastic day out that combines interactive play and learning for a whole lot of fun.
19. Broughshane Waterfowl Park
Open 365 days a year and free to enter, the site of Broughshane Waterfowl Park is the result of a community project which saw over 500 people transform the area into an area of biodiversity teaming with waterfowl and other wildlife. Meander along the river or wander through the woods, all while keeping an eye out for many birds that make Broughshane their home. There’s plenty to delight kids, from the fairy village, to the bug trail, and butterfly corner. Enjoy a stroll and a picnic but leave the dog at home on this occasion.
20. The Gobbins Cliff Path, Islandmagee
A coastal path with a difference, the Gobbins is one to get the heart racing! Enter the path through a tunnel that goes right through the solid basalt stoneface and follow a series of walkways and bridges that snake around the cliff edge. This is a unique experience that enables visitors to get up close and personal with the natural habitat in this area, as you travel through underwater tunnels and up paths right on the cliff face. Come face to face with puffins and marine life as you are regaled with intriguing stories of this area of the world. Due to the walk’s challenging nature children have to be over 4ft tall.
