Mid and East Antrim is situated on the world-famous Causeway Coastal Route, just 20 minutes from Belfast and just over two hours’ drive from Dublin.

This is the perfect area to base yourself to explore the unique and authentic Mid and East Antrim as well as all of Northern Ireland.

There’s something for everyone here from the intrepid explorer, the pleasure seeker to the adventurous and young families.

Glenarm has been the home of the Lords of Antrim for centuries

Where to go

Mid and East Antrim is home to The Gobbins Cliff Path, Europe’s most dramatic coastal walk experience. This fully guided tour will take you on a journey through bridges, caves and stone steps carved at the cliff edge of Northern Ireland.

Learn the history of the path, watch out for the array of wildlife and seabirds and take a walk through nature, all while facing the Northern Irish elements.

Explore the likes of Slemish Mountain, homeplace of St Patrick. This spiritual mountain looks over the Antrim Hills and the stunning coastline, where you can gaze over patchwork fields divided by stonewalls and the grasslands of Shillanavogy Valley.

The hidden village of Galboly is one of the most remote Game of Thrones locations in Northern Ireland

Or discover one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Britain or Ireland at Carrickfergus Castle. Walk the walls, feels the ridges and indents made by cannon rounds from sieges and battles and explore the ancient keep and medieval chamber of this Norman creation.

Experience the true authenticity of Ireland with the unique and picturesque towns and villages. Glenarm, home to Glenarm Castle Estate and Gardens, has been the home of the Lords of Antrim for centuries. You can visit the exquisite grounds around their 18th century Palladian mansion, where tours can also be arranged in this much-loved family home.

The colourful seafront of Whitehead is like an image from a postcard. This splendid seaside town is nicknamed ‘The Town with No Streets’ due to the unusual fact that none of the street names actually have the word ‘street’ in them.

A firm favourite for kids and adults alike is the Whitehead Railway Museum. Hop aboard and explore Ireland’s largest collection of heritage locomotives and carriages at your leisure. Take a walk to the lighthouse and admire the stunning views over the Irish Sea.

The spiritual Slemish Mountain looks over the Antrim Hills and the stunning coastline

Book your stay

Mid and East Antrim has an array of fabulous accommodation for all tastes and budgets. From luxurious hotels like the Galgorm Resort, situated in Ballymena with one of the best spa facilities in Ireland, to Ballygally Hotel, a castle once owned by aristocracy with beautiful views over the Antrim Coast.

There’s also unique self-catering accommodation unlike any other. Stay in a lighthouse overlooking the sea or in a medieval keep at the Barbican Gate. For all accommodation visit https://shapedbyseaandstone.com/accommodation.

A foodie destination

Northern Ireland has some of the best food and drink in the world and in Mid and East Antrim, that’s no exception – in fact, the region was named one of Ireland’s top foodie destinations in 2018.

There’s something satisfying about eating dinner in a building once owned by Sir Winston Churchill and indulging in afternoon tea in a historic castle. Then there’s the thrill of watching traditional Irish meals being prepared right before your eyes. But the true experience is in the tasting. The enjoyment of savouring the first bite of a Rinkha ice cream and tasting the distinct flavours of a craft ale that has just been brewed. This is an exploration of flavour not to be missed!

Plan your trip

Plan your escape to Mid & East Antrim to discover a coast, a heritage, a life shaped by sea and stone at https://shapedbyseaandstone.com.

Walk on the wild side with a trip to Ireland’s Mid and East Antrim