Glenarm Castle Gardens

Enjoy a memorable day out at Glenarm Castle Estate, where centuries of history, beautiful gardens and family-friendly experiences come together in one of Northern Ireland’s most enchanting settings.

At the heart of the Estate lies our magnificent 18th-century Walled Garden, crowned Historic Houses Garden of the Year in 2023. Originally established to provide the Castle with fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers, the garden has been lovingly restored over the past 20 years by Randal and Aurora McDonnell, the Earl and Countess of Antrim. Today, its beautifully planted borders, historic glasshouses and seasonal displays create a peaceful haven that offers something different throughout the year.

Above the Walled Garden, the Woodland Walk winds through tranquil greenery and offers wonderful panoramic views across the Estate and beyond. It is the perfect place to slow down, take in the scenery and enjoy the natural beauty of Glenarm.

Step inside the Heritage Centre to discover the fascinating story of the Antrim McDonnell family. With a lineage stretching back more than 2,000 years, the family is one of the oldest in these islands and has played an important role in shaping the history and landscape of the famous North Antrim Coast.

There is plenty to enjoy beyond the gardens and heritage. Take a break in the Tea Room for homemade treats, indulge in gelato at The Milk Parlour, enjoy wood-fired sourdough pizza at the Pizza Pavilion, or pick up a freshly brewed coffee and traybake from The Potting Shed.

The Estate is also home to a collection of independent shops, including The Castle Shop, The Byre, Shearer Ceramics, The Dribbly Yak, Causeway Aromatics, Ivy & Gold and Past & Present. Each is run by welcoming local businesses, with many offering unique, locally made and handcrafted products.

Younger visitors can take the wheel with our Mini Land Rover Experience, an exciting off-road adventure designed especially for children, while four-legged visitors can let off steam at the Glenarm Castle Dog Park – a secure space where dogs can run, play and practise their skills on our agility equipment.

For those who want to make the most of their time at the Estate, our 4-star Ocean View Pods offer a wonderful place to stay. Just a short stroll from Glenarm Castle Estate, the pods provide a peaceful retreat with breathtaking views across the picturesque coastal village and surrounding countryside.

On selected dates throughout the season, visitors can also join a Castle Tour and step inside Glenarm Castle to discover more of its remarkable history. Hear stories of generations of the Antrim family and life at the Estate, brought to life by members of the family’s household staff and butler.

Whether you come to explore the gardens, discover centuries of history, enjoy a leisurely lunch, bring the family for an adventure or simply soak up the beauty of the Estate, Glenarm Castle offers a unique glimpse into the heritage, landscape and living history of one of Northern Ireland’s most treasured estates.