Attractions and Places To See around Hurtletoot - Top 4
Attractions and places to see around Hurtletoot include historical sites, natural viewpoints, and unique monuments. This region offers a diverse landscape featuring significant historical gardens and the shores of Ireland's largest lake. Visitors can explore ancient structures and enjoy scenic views. The area provides opportunities for discovering both cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Best attractions and places to see around Hurtletoot
- The most popular attractions is Antrim Castle Gardens, a historical site that features 400-year-old gardens and historical buildings.…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Antrim Castle Gardens
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Walk into the past as you stroll …
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Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim
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Antrim Round Tower
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The Protector of the Lough
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The Round Tower is an impressive reminder of Antrim's ancient monastic settlement. Built around the 10th century as the monastery's bell tower, it is known locally as The Steeple. It stands 28 meters tall. The monastic site was burned down in 1147.
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The Protector of the Lough statue shows the mythological giant Finn McCool standing guard at Antrim Marina on the shores of Lough Neagh. It's an eight-metre-tall sculpture created by Spanish artist Casto Solan to celebrate the local folklore of the Lough.
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The Round Tower is an impressive reminder of Antrim’s ancient monastic settlement. It was built around the 10th century as a bell-tower as part of the Early Christain monastery and is known locally as The Steeple. It is 28 metres tall and is one of the finest of its kind in Ireland. The monastic site was burned in 1147.
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Antrim Castle Gardens are an absolute historical gem. You will find nothing like these 400 year old gardens anywhere else in Northern Ireland. Walk into the past as you stroll around this magnificent setting, visiting beautiful features such as the Large Parterre, Her Ladyship’s Pleasure Garden and Yew Tree Pond. Within the heart of the Gardens is a unique visitor experience, the refurbished Clotworthy House. Visit the Garden Heritage Exhibition where you can read about the history of the Gardens and the story of the Massereene family. It provides a fantastic opportunity to come and learn about garden history how the lives of the key family members intertwine with the development of Antrim town and the surrounding areas.
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Scenic section of walking along the shore of Lough Neagh from Antrim. The lough holds the title of the largest lake in Ireland and this footpath gifts you with some gorgeous vantage points to enjoy it from.
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Castle gardens including various buildings and ruins on the river. Plenty to look at and explore in the gardens.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of attractions can I expect to find around Hurtletoot?
The Hurtletoot area, centered around Antrim, offers a mix of historical sites, natural viewpoints, and unique monuments. You can explore ancient gardens, significant lake features, and impressive historical structures.
Are there any historical sites to explore near Hurtletoot?
Yes, the region is rich in history. A prominent historical site is Antrim Castle Gardens, featuring 400-year-old gardens and historical buildings, including Clotworthy House. Another significant historical landmark is the Antrim Round Tower, a 10th-century bell tower and a reminder of an ancient monastic settlement.
What natural sights can I enjoy around Hurtletoot?
You can experience the expansive beauty of Ireland's largest lake at Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim. This scenic footpath provides excellent vantage points to enjoy the lake views. The Antrim Castle Gardens also offer beautiful natural settings with rivers and diverse plant life.
Are the attractions around Hurtletoot suitable for families?
Absolutely! All the main attractions, including Antrim Castle Gardens, Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim, Antrim Round Tower, and The Protector of the Lough, are considered family-friendly, offering engaging experiences for all ages.
What unique monuments or cultural landmarks are there?
Beyond the historical sites, you can visit The Protector of the Lough, an eight-meter-tall statue of the mythological giant Finn McCool, standing guard at Antrim Marina. It celebrates local folklore and is a distinctive cultural landmark.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions in the Hurtletoot area?
Yes, The Protector of the Lough statue at Antrim Marina is noted as wheelchair-accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy this unique monument.
What outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, are available near these attractions?
The area around Hurtletoot offers various outdoor activities. You can find easy hiking trails, such as the Loughshore Trail - Antrim Loop, and several routes within Antrim Castle Gardens. For cyclists, there are numerous road cycling and touring bicycle routes, including loops around Antrim Castle and along Lough Neagh. You can explore these options further in the outdoor activities guide.
Can I find easy walking trails around Hurtletoot's attractions?
Yes, there are several easy walking trails. For instance, you can enjoy the Loughshore Trail - Antrim Loop or explore the paths within Antrim Castle Gardens. The Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim also provides an easy footpath with scenic views. More details can be found in the easy hikes guide.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions in this region?
Visitors frequently praise the historical depth of Antrim Castle Gardens, highlighting the 400-year-old setting and the unique visitor experience at Clotworthy House. The scenic views along the Lough Neagh Shore are also highly appreciated for their expansive beauty.
When is the best time of year to visit the attractions around Hurtletoot?
The attractions around Hurtletoot, particularly the gardens and lake shore, are enjoyable throughout the warmer months, from spring to early autumn, when the weather is mildest and the natural scenery is at its peak. However, historical sites like the Antrim Round Tower can be visited year-round.
Are there options for longer cycling routes near Hurtletoot?
Yes, for those looking for longer cycling adventures, there are several moderate to difficult routes available. These include loops from Antrim to Kells, Lisburn, Slemish Mountain, and Lagan Meadows, offering distances up to 126 km. You can find detailed routes in the cycling guide.
What kind of wildlife might I spot around Hurtletoot's natural attractions?
Around Lough Neagh, as Ireland's largest lake, you might spot various bird species, especially waterfowl. The Antrim Castle Gardens, with their diverse plant life and river features, also attract local birds and small wildlife.
Where can I find more information about things to do in the wider Antrim and North Down area?
For broader information on things to do and events in the surrounding region, you can visit external tourism sites such as visitardsandnorthdown.com.
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