Lisowen House Guidebook
Sightseeing
A picturesque little fishing village with a stunning harbour. Take a walk around the harbour, go up the harbour steps to the picnic area and to take in the views of Glencloy and Glenarm, Scotland and the Alisa Craig. A five minute walk from Lisowen House.
Carnlough Bay Boat Tours is a wonderful opportunity, not to be missed. The aptly named ‘Curiosity’ sets sail daily from Carnlough Harbour. You will enjoy the beautiful landscapes of rugged cliffs and rolling green hills. You will enjoy the local wildlife and perhaps be fortunate to see dolphins and seals (frequent visitors to the bay) and you will have an opportunity to learn about Carnlough fishermen from your skipper, Davy Smyth.
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Carnlough Harbor
58 Harbour RdA picturesque little fishing village with a stunning harbour. Take a walk around the harbour, go up the harbour steps to the picnic area and to take in the views of Glencloy and Glenarm, Scotland and the Alisa Craig. A five minute walk from Lisowen House.
Carnlough Bay Boat Tours is a wonderful opportunity, not to be missed. The aptly named ‘Curiosity’ sets sail daily from Carnlough Harbour. You will enjoy the beautiful landscapes of rugged cliffs and rolling green hills. You will enjoy the local wildlife and perhaps be fortunate to see dolphins and seals (frequent visitors to the bay) and you will have an opportunity to learn about Carnlough fishermen from your skipper, Davy Smyth.
Fabulous in all weathers! A windy bracing walk in the winter or an ice-lolly day in the Summer. How far from Lisowen House? A matter of steps!
Carnlough Beach
Fabulous in all weathers! A windy bracing walk in the winter or an ice-lolly day in the Summer. How far from Lisowen House? A matter of steps!
Simply stunning! A thirty minute scenic walk from Lisowen House.
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Cranny Falls
Simply stunning! A thirty minute scenic walk from Lisowen House.
Enjoy walking, jogging, driving along the A2 Coast Road for spectacular scenery and panoramic views. From Lisowen House you could walk south along the Coast Road to Glenarm, the first of the nine Glens of Antrim (approximately 30 minutes walking) or head north towards Glenariff, the third of the nine Glens of Antrim - this would take approximately 10 minutes by car. Or you could enjoy walking a 3 mile circular scenic route from ‘Lisowen House’, known as ‘The Round of the Branch’ by heading north along the Coast Road, then by going up Branch Road onto Largy Road at the end of which you turn right and head back to the village. This would take approximately one hour at a leisurely pace.
Coast Road
Coast RoadEnjoy walking, jogging, driving along the A2 Coast Road for spectacular scenery and panoramic views. From Lisowen House you could walk south along the Coast Road to Glenarm, the first of the nine Glens of Antrim (approximately 30 minutes walking) or head north towards Glenariff, the third of the nine Glens of Antrim - this would take approximately 10 minutes by car. Or you could enjoy walking a 3 mile circular scenic route from ‘Lisowen House’, known as ‘The Round of the Branch’ by heading north along the Coast Road, then by going up Branch Road onto Largy Road at the end of which you turn right and head back to the village. This would take approximately one hour at a leisurely pace.
Little Trosk and Big Trosk are two beautiful lakes set within a stunning, rugged landscape. Walking to the lakes is inadvisable for solo walkers, the elderly, children, those with health conditions ...... or the unfit!!! It is a day out best reserved for seasoned hill- walkers who possess the right equipment and expertise.
Little Trosk
Little Trosk and Big Trosk are two beautiful lakes set within a stunning, rugged landscape. Walking to the lakes is inadvisable for solo walkers, the elderly, children, those with health conditions ...... or the unfit!!! It is a day out best reserved for seasoned hill- walkers who possess the right equipment and expertise.
If you enjoy a secluded woodland walks this is a small but beautifully wild nature reserve where you can enjoy a ‘circular walk’. It is home to hazel thickets and mixed woodland of ash, birch, hawthorn and rowan, interspersed with several species-rich grassland clearings.
During spring, the ground is awash with wildflowers such as bluebells and lesser celandine, along with a host of interesting plants such as wood vetch and stone bramble while the pungent smell of wild garlic fills the air!
Straidkilly Nature Reserve is a 15 minute walk from Lisowen House.
Straidkilly Nature Reserve
Straidkilly RoadIf you enjoy a secluded woodland walks this is a small but beautifully wild nature reserve where you can enjoy a ‘circular walk’. It is home to hazel thickets and mixed woodland of ash, birch, hawthorn and rowan, interspersed with several species-rich grassland clearings.
During spring, the ground is awash with wildflowers such as bluebells and lesser celandine, along with a host of interesting plants such as wood vetch and stone bramble while the pungent smell of wild garlic fills the air!
Straidkilly Nature Reserve is a 15 minute walk from Lisowen House.
The Nine Glens of Antrim - known locally as simply ‘The Glens’ is a set of nine valleys which radiate from the Antrim Plateau to the coast. The Glens are an area of outstanding natural beauty. The main towns and villages in the Glens are: Glenarm, Carnlough, Waterfoot, Cushendall, Cushendun and Ballycastle - all of which are worth a visit! From north to south the nine Glens are: Glentaisie, Glenshesk, Glendun, Glencorp, Glenaan, Glenballyeamon, Glenariff, Glencloy and Glenarm.
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The Glens of Antrim
8 Shore StThe Nine Glens of Antrim - known locally as simply ‘The Glens’ is a set of nine valleys which radiate from the Antrim Plateau to the coast. The Glens are an area of outstanding natural beauty. The main towns and villages in the Glens are: Glenarm, Carnlough, Waterfoot, Cushendall, Cushendun and Ballycastle - all of which are worth a visit! From north to south the nine Glens are: Glentaisie, Glenshesk, Glendun, Glencorp, Glenaan, Glenballyeamon, Glenariff, Glencloy and Glenarm.
Glenarm Forest Park is a mere five minute drive from Lisowen House. The forest is small but has a wide variety of tree species growing under excellent conditions of soil and climate. Species such as oak, ash, beech, sycamore, Japanese Larch, Sitka Spruce and many others can be found. On the forest floor plants such as bluebells, primroses, dog’s mercury and ground ivy can all be seen.
Many feeder streams run down the side of the glen to join the Glenarm river, forming ribbons of natural vegetation through the forest.
The forest is wonderful for a seasonal walk - copper leaves in Autumn, evergreens in Winter, bluebells and babbling brooks in Spring .... and in Summer, warm weather and hazy days!!
Glenarm Forest Park
Glenarm Forest ParkGlenarm Forest Park is a mere five minute drive from Lisowen House. The forest is small but has a wide variety of tree species growing under excellent conditions of soil and climate. Species such as oak, ash, beech, sycamore, Japanese Larch, Sitka Spruce and many others can be found. On the forest floor plants such as bluebells, primroses, dog’s mercury and ground ivy can all be seen.
Many feeder streams run down the side of the glen to join the Glenarm river, forming ribbons of natural vegetation through the forest.
The forest is wonderful for a seasonal walk - copper leaves in Autumn, evergreens in Winter, bluebells and babbling brooks in Spring .... and in Summer, warm weather and hazy days!!
Glenarm Castle Walled Garden is certainly worth a visit. A five minute drive from Lisowen House and you will find yourself in a totally enchanting garden. The Walked Garden is one of Ireland’s oldest walled garden. It was originally created to supply the castle with fruit and vegetables but now is filled with exciting flowers and specimen plants. The garden is stunning to say the least.
It is open from Easter, when you can see the fabulous displays of Spring bulbs along with apple and pear blossom, right up to to the end of September when the garden is still in bloom with rich displays of herbaceous plants.
Not to be missed at the end of your day would be a visit to the tea room - situated in the old Mushroom House, the Byre Shop where ladies and gents fashions and gifts can be found or Shambles Workshop with a range of bespoke crafts and jewellery.
Glenarm Castle is the home of Viscount and Viscountess Dunluce and their family. The present castle has been in the McDonnell family since it was first built in 1636. The McDonnells have been in Glenarm for nearly 600 years and the estate has been in the family for 400 years. If you are fortunate to have a guided tour of the house you will see superb examples of Irish furniture as well as portraits of family members from the early 17th Century through to the present day.
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Castillo de Glenarm y Jardín Amurallado
2 Castle LaneGlenarm Castle Walled Garden is certainly worth a visit. A five minute drive from Lisowen House and you will find yourself in a totally enchanting garden. The Walked Garden is one of Ireland’s oldest walled garden. It was originally created to supply the castle with fruit and vegetables but now is filled with exciting flowers and specimen plants. The garden is stunning to say the least.
It is open from Easter, when you can see the fabulous displays of Spring bulbs along with apple and pear blossom, right up to to the end of September when the garden is still in bloom with rich displays of herbaceous plants.
Not to be missed at the end of your day would be a visit to the tea room - situated in the old Mushroom House, the Byre Shop where ladies and gents fashions and gifts can be found or Shambles Workshop with a range of bespoke crafts and jewellery.
Glenarm Castle is the home of Viscount and Viscountess Dunluce and their family. The present castle has been in the McDonnell family since it was first built in 1636. The McDonnells have been in Glenarm for nearly 600 years and the estate has been in the family for 400 years. If you are fortunate to have a guided tour of the house you will see superb examples of Irish furniture as well as portraits of family members from the early 17th Century through to the present day.
Aside from its natural beauty, Slemish’s value as a heritage site is entirely bound up with its association with Saint Patrick. Google Saint Patrick, Ireland’s patron saint!! While it is a fantastic hill challenge be aware that there is a 70-80 degree climb for 25 minutes of the hour climb. However, once you get to the top you will experience some of the greatest panoramic views of the N. Ireland countryside. Many choose to enjoy the climb on the feast day of St Patrick, 17th March!
Slemish is a thirty minute drive from Lisowen House.
Slemish
Aside from its natural beauty, Slemish’s value as a heritage site is entirely bound up with its association with Saint Patrick. Google Saint Patrick, Ireland’s patron saint!! While it is a fantastic hill challenge be aware that there is a 70-80 degree climb for 25 minutes of the hour climb. However, once you get to the top you will experience some of the greatest panoramic views of the N. Ireland countryside. Many choose to enjoy the climb on the feast day of St Patrick, 17th March!
Slemish is a thirty minute drive from Lisowen House.
A twenty- five minute drive from Lisowen House, Glenariff Forest is home to many animals of conservation concern, most notably the red squirrel, hen harriers and Irish hare. There are several walking trails through the forest which give spectacular views and glimpses of wildlife.
Most spectacular however is the Glenariff Nature Reserve Waterfalls Walk. From Glenariff Forest Park follow the trail marked ‘waterfall walk’ which takes you downhill, down steps, along boardwalks, through the river gorge and past spectacular waterfalls. The damp conditions are utterly atmospheric as the chinks of daylight and sun are dappled on wet rocks and banks, ferns and mosses. So, if chasing waterfalls is for you ... so is this walk!
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Glenariff Forest Park
Glenariffe RoadA twenty- five minute drive from Lisowen House, Glenariff Forest is home to many animals of conservation concern, most notably the red squirrel, hen harriers and Irish hare. There are several walking trails through the forest which give spectacular views and glimpses of wildlife.
Most spectacular however is the Glenariff Nature Reserve Waterfalls Walk. From Glenariff Forest Park follow the trail marked ‘waterfall walk’ which takes you downhill, down steps, along boardwalks, through the river gorge and past spectacular waterfalls. The damp conditions are utterly atmospheric as the chinks of daylight and sun are dappled on wet rocks and banks, ferns and mosses. So, if chasing waterfalls is for you ... so is this walk!
Cushendun’s picturesque coastal setting, together with its unique architectural inheritance, resulted in its designation as a conservation area. A drive of only half an hour from Lisowen House, Cushendun us well worth a visit.
Google Cushendun before you visit so you can read about the village - in particular the Cornish styled whitewashed cottages. You will also find really helpful guidebooks and information for guests about Cushendun in Lisowen House!
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Cushendun
Cushendun’s picturesque coastal setting, together with its unique architectural inheritance, resulted in its designation as a conservation area. A drive of only half an hour from Lisowen House, Cushendun us well worth a visit.
Google Cushendun before you visit so you can read about the village - in particular the Cornish styled whitewashed cottages. You will also find really helpful guidebooks and information for guests about Cushendun in Lisowen House!
When you visit Cushendun you must do two things... firstly enjoy a walk or family fun on the beautifully sandy beach and secondly take a walk over to the caves. The caves are famous as a Game of Thrones site (they provided the background for The Stormlands)... but should be visited moreover because they were formed over 400 million years of extreme weather conditions snd they remain simply wild and imposing. Take your camera, skim stones on the water and shout to hear your echo!
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Cushendun Caves
When you visit Cushendun you must do two things... firstly enjoy a walk or family fun on the beautifully sandy beach and secondly take a walk over to the caves. The caves are famous as a Game of Thrones site (they provided the background for The Stormlands)... but should be visited moreover because they were formed over 400 million years of extreme weather conditions snd they remain simply wild and imposing. Take your camera, skim stones on the water and shout to hear your echo!
Approximately 36 mikes from Lisowen House, if you are a fan of Game of Thrones, The Dark Hedges are worth a visit! The ‘hedges’ themselves are a line of Beech trees which are approximately 0.6 miles in length and are located between the villages of Armoy and Stranocum. The road is closed to traffic to protect the hedges but there are parking facilities just 2 minutes away.
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Los Arcos Oscuros
Bregagh RoadApproximately 36 mikes from Lisowen House, if you are a fan of Game of Thrones, The Dark Hedges are worth a visit! The ‘hedges’ themselves are a line of Beech trees which are approximately 0.6 miles in length and are located between the villages of Armoy and Stranocum. The road is closed to traffic to protect the hedges but there are parking facilities just 2 minutes away.
Bushmills Irish Whiskey is made at the world’s oldest licensed working distillery in Bushmills village, approximately 43 miles and a sixty minute drive from Lisowen House in Carnlough. The Bushmill’s Brand experience provides for a guided tour around the working distillery with all of the associated sights and smells. At the end of the tour you are offered a whiskey to enjoy .. or soft drink for those who are teetotal! Your day out could be rounded off with lunch in the Bushmills Inn Hotel or one of the lovely little eateries close-by!
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Old Bushmills Distillery
2 Distillery RdBushmills Irish Whiskey is made at the world’s oldest licensed working distillery in Bushmills village, approximately 43 miles and a sixty minute drive from Lisowen House in Carnlough. The Bushmill’s Brand experience provides for a guided tour around the working distillery with all of the associated sights and smells. At the end of the tour you are offered a whiskey to enjoy .. or soft drink for those who are teetotal! Your day out could be rounded off with lunch in the Bushmills Inn Hotel or one of the lovely little eateries close-by!
The Giant’s Causeway needs little introduction. An area of about 40,000 interlocking bassalt columns which are the result of an ancient volcanic fissure eruption and designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986 and a national nature reserve in 1987 by the Department of the Environment NI .... it is certainly one to visit! The Giant’s Causeway is as spectacular as the journey along the Coast from Carnlough to get to your destination. The Glens, rugged cliffs and headlands and panoramic views of the coast are breathtaking. Your journey time by car from Lisowen House is approximately 2 hours in peak season. You can of course take an inland route which cuts your travel time by half but you would miss out on the coastal landscape and stunning Glens.
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Giant's Causeway
The Giant’s Causeway needs little introduction. An area of about 40,000 interlocking bassalt columns which are the result of an ancient volcanic fissure eruption and designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986 and a national nature reserve in 1987 by the Department of the Environment NI .... it is certainly one to visit! The Giant’s Causeway is as spectacular as the journey along the Coast from Carnlough to get to your destination. The Glens, rugged cliffs and headlands and panoramic views of the coast are breathtaking. Your journey time by car from Lisowen House is approximately 2 hours in peak season. You can of course take an inland route which cuts your travel time by half but you would miss out on the coastal landscape and stunning Glens.
The Gobbins Cliff Path is a unique attraction built in a beautiful but isolated location. When the cliff path was first constructed in Islandmagee, on the Co. Antrim coastline at the turn of the 20th Century it was billed as having ‘no parallel in Europe as a marine cliff walk’. And the path now, reimagined, still delivers a thrilling experience. It is located in Islandmagee, an approximate 23 miles from Lisowen House. The drive there itself along the A2 Coast Road is thoroughly beautiful and perfectly relaxing in advance of the 2.5 hour guided walking tour of The Gobbins! Please be advised this tour must be booked in advance! This can be completed online ... just google The Gobbins Cliff Walk.
The Gobbins is close to the town of Whitehead - a typically Victorian village (although it is classed as a town!) Have a walk along the shore to enjoy the brightly painted houses and perhaps enjoy coffee or lunch in one of the local eateries or in the Whitehead Golf Club Restaurant- you don’t need to be a member to enjoy a meal here!! The food is great, reasonably priced and offers beautiful views over the coast and golf course!
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The Gobbins Cliff path
66 Middle RoadThe Gobbins Cliff Path is a unique attraction built in a beautiful but isolated location. When the cliff path was first constructed in Islandmagee, on the Co. Antrim coastline at the turn of the 20th Century it was billed as having ‘no parallel in Europe as a marine cliff walk’. And the path now, reimagined, still delivers a thrilling experience. It is located in Islandmagee, an approximate 23 miles from Lisowen House. The drive there itself along the A2 Coast Road is thoroughly beautiful and perfectly relaxing in advance of the 2.5 hour guided walking tour of The Gobbins! Please be advised this tour must be booked in advance! This can be completed online ... just google The Gobbins Cliff Walk.
The Gobbins is close to the town of Whitehead - a typically Victorian village (although it is classed as a town!) Have a walk along the shore to enjoy the brightly painted houses and perhaps enjoy coffee or lunch in one of the local eateries or in the Whitehead Golf Club Restaurant- you don’t need to be a member to enjoy a meal here!! The food is great, reasonably priced and offers beautiful views over the coast and golf course!
Everyone knows the Titanic story - the real one or have watched the film with Leonardo and Kate!! It’s approximately a 50 minute drive from Lisowen House to Titanic in Belfast. Titanic Experience extends over nine interactive galleries. There are some full-scale reconstructions, artefacts, audio-visual experiences and innovative, interactive features. To complete your Titanic Experience you can visit the world’s last remaining White Star vessel and RMS Titanic’s original tender ship - SS Nomadic. It’s a super day out and there’s lots of great places in Belfast within walking reach to relax and dine afterwards.
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Titanic Belfast
1 Olympic WayEveryone knows the Titanic story - the real one or have watched the film with Leonardo and Kate!! It’s approximately a 50 minute drive from Lisowen House to Titanic in Belfast. Titanic Experience extends over nine interactive galleries. There are some full-scale reconstructions, artefacts, audio-visual experiences and innovative, interactive features. To complete your Titanic Experience you can visit the world’s last remaining White Star vessel and RMS Titanic’s original tender ship - SS Nomadic. It’s a super day out and there’s lots of great places in Belfast within walking reach to relax and dine afterwards.
The Ulster Museum, located in the Botanic Gardens in Belfast is a 55 minute drive from Lisowen House. The 8,000 sq m of public display space feature material from the collections of fine art and applied art, archaeology, ethnography, treasures from the Spanish Armada, local history, botany, zoology and geology. The Ulster Museum is the largest museum in Northern Ireland and one of the components of National Museums Northern Ireland. A visit to the museum wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Palm House! I’ve also put the Palm House in my Guidebook!
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Museo de Ulster
Botanic GardensThe Ulster Museum, located in the Botanic Gardens in Belfast is a 55 minute drive from Lisowen House. The 8,000 sq m of public display space feature material from the collections of fine art and applied art, archaeology, ethnography, treasures from the Spanish Armada, local history, botany, zoology and geology. The Ulster Museum is the largest museum in Northern Ireland and one of the components of National Museums Northern Ireland. A visit to the museum wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Palm House! I’ve also put the Palm House in my Guidebook!
Botanic gardens is a 55 minute drive from Lisowen House. The gardens have been enjoyed as a public park by the people of Belfast since 1895! There’s an extensive rose garden and beautiful herbaceous borders and if you’re a tree enthusiast you will be able to seek out the rare oaks planted in the 1880s, including the Hornbeam-Leafed Oak.
Within the gardens you will find the Palm House. It is full of tropical plants, hanging baskets, seasonal displays and Birds of Paradise. It’s one of the oldest examples of a glasshouse made from curved iron and glass. It shows how advances in glasshouse technology allowed horticulturalists to grow exotic plant species during the Victorian period.
The building was designed by Sir Charles Lanyon who also helped design parts of nearby Queen’s University. The foundation stone was laid in 1839 snd the two wings were completed in 1840 by leading iron-master, Richard Turner. The dome was added in 1852.
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Botanic Gardens
1 Colenso ParadeBotanic gardens is a 55 minute drive from Lisowen House. The gardens have been enjoyed as a public park by the people of Belfast since 1895! There’s an extensive rose garden and beautiful herbaceous borders and if you’re a tree enthusiast you will be able to seek out the rare oaks planted in the 1880s, including the Hornbeam-Leafed Oak.
Within the gardens you will find the Palm House. It is full of tropical plants, hanging baskets, seasonal displays and Birds of Paradise. It’s one of the oldest examples of a glasshouse made from curved iron and glass. It shows how advances in glasshouse technology allowed horticulturalists to grow exotic plant species during the Victorian period.
The building was designed by Sir Charles Lanyon who also helped design parts of nearby Queen’s University. The foundation stone was laid in 1839 snd the two wings were completed in 1840 by leading iron-master, Richard Turner. The dome was added in 1852.
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge in Ballintoy is perfect for thrill seekers. The rope bridge was first erected by salmon fishermen in 1755. The rope bridge is suspended almost 100 ft (30m) above the Atlantic Ocean and is connected either side to cliffs.
Be advised final access to the rope bridge is 45 minutes before closing time. It is recommended that you book your tickets in advance of your visit.
If you are taking in the full Causeway Coast in one day this is particularly advisable as time will be at a premium!! It is approximately a 55 minute drive from Lisowen House to Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge but of course in peak season add in more time for your journey!
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Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge in Ballintoy is perfect for thrill seekers. The rope bridge was first erected by salmon fishermen in 1755. The rope bridge is suspended almost 100 ft (30m) above the Atlantic Ocean and is connected either side to cliffs.
Be advised final access to the rope bridge is 45 minutes before closing time. It is recommended that you book your tickets in advance of your visit.
If you are taking in the full Causeway Coast in one day this is particularly advisable as time will be at a premium!! It is approximately a 55 minute drive from Lisowen House to Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge but of course in peak season add in more time for your journey!
Hop on the ferry from Ballycastle (a 50 minute drive from ‘Lisowen House’ ) to Rathlin Island and enjoy a wild and rugged landscape.
The ferry to Rathlin Island travels just six miles across the Sea of Moyle. This island is six miles long, one mile wide, "L" shaped and home to a slowly increasing population of around 150 people.
A short walk from the harbour is the Boathouse Visitor Centre, where visitors can discover some of the exciting history, learn about present day island life and see some artefacts from shipwrecks around the island. Enjoy many of the walks the Island has to offer including along the shore to Mill Bay where you may see some of the resident seals basking or at play. Cycle hire is another way to enjoy the island or take a bus trip.
From April to July is puffin season so don't miss the opportunity to see them along with lots of other sea birds. The re-furbished seabird centre is open to the public from Easter with the added bonus of being able to explore a real working lighthouse which is now part of the Great Lighthouses of Ireland tour.
Many tales of myth and mystery surround Rathlin; perhaps the most famous tells of Robert the Bruce. In 1306, the Scottish King was driven from Scotland by Edward I of England and took refuge on Rathlin where he watched a spider persevering again and again to bridge a gap with its web. Eventually it succeeded. Taking heart from the spider's efforts, he returned to Scotland and eventually regained his crown.
The island has a range of accommodation to suit different needs, a pub, restaurant, community shop and gift shop, offering Rathlin produced crafts. ‘Breakwater Studio’ features the work of local artist Yvonne Braithwaite.
The Rathlin Development & Community Association (RDCA) is the voluntary body that represents the Rathlin community and manages an informative website with detailed information about services and activities on the island www.rathlincommunity.org
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Rathlin Island
Hop on the ferry from Ballycastle (a 50 minute drive from ‘Lisowen House’ ) to Rathlin Island and enjoy a wild and rugged landscape.
The ferry to Rathlin Island travels just six miles across the Sea of Moyle. This island is six miles long, one mile wide, "L" shaped and home to a slowly increasing population of around 150 people.
A short walk from the harbour is the Boathouse Visitor Centre, where visitors can discover some of the exciting history, learn about present day island life and see some artefacts from shipwrecks around the island. Enjoy many of the walks the Island has to offer including along the shore to Mill Bay where you may see some of the resident seals basking or at play. Cycle hire is another way to enjoy the island or take a bus trip.
From April to July is puffin season so don't miss the opportunity to see them along with lots of other sea birds. The re-furbished seabird centre is open to the public from Easter with the added bonus of being able to explore a real working lighthouse which is now part of the Great Lighthouses of Ireland tour.
Many tales of myth and mystery surround Rathlin; perhaps the most famous tells of Robert the Bruce. In 1306, the Scottish King was driven from Scotland by Edward I of England and took refuge on Rathlin where he watched a spider persevering again and again to bridge a gap with its web. Eventually it succeeded. Taking heart from the spider's efforts, he returned to Scotland and eventually regained his crown.
The island has a range of accommodation to suit different needs, a pub, restaurant, community shop and gift shop, offering Rathlin produced crafts. ‘Breakwater Studio’ features the work of local artist Yvonne Braithwaite.
The Rathlin Development & Community Association (RDCA) is the voluntary body that represents the Rathlin community and manages an informative website with detailed information about services and activities on the island www.rathlincommunity.org
Opened in 2018, this unique industrial heritage display features stories of the limestone quarrying in Carnlough, iron mining in Glenravel and other industries of the Glens of Antrim in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The interpretation display in The Heritage Hub at Carnlough Town Hall also celebrates Carnlough’s harbour, its maritime connections, the area’s beautiful scenery, geology, wildlife and natural resources. It also explores the history of settlers from the Stone Age to the industrialists of the 19th Century.
The Town Hall was built in 1856 as an important part of the infrastructure servicing the growth of the limestone industry in Carnlough. Between the 1840s and the mid 1850s, the Marchioness of Londonderry, Frances Anne Vane Tempest, built a harbour, railway system, quarry office, shipping office, post office, hotel, school, houses and everything necessary to support the extraction and export of limestone. The ground floor of the Town Hall housed the quarry office and the kelp store. The first floor provided a room which was used for community events – tenants annual dinners, magic lantern shows, talks and other entertainments. This upstairs room has once again been restored as a flexible display and community meeting space which can be used for talks, meetings, presentations and training courses.
Additional facilities include: Victorian dress up for children, hands on learning, audio visual presentation, light refreshments, lift, full wheelchair accessibility (if possible check in advance if have large motorised chair or mobility scooter).
After you have discovered all about Carnlough you can go on an energetic walk to Cranny Falls via Carnlough Harbour or a guided tour around Carnlough can also be arranged.
The Heritage Hub at Carnlough Town Hall
Harbour Road
Opened in 2018, this unique industrial heritage display features stories of the limestone quarrying in Carnlough, iron mining in Glenravel and other industries of the Glens of Antrim in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The interpretation display in The Heritage Hub at Carnlough Town Hall also celebrates Carnlough’s harbour, its maritime connections, the area’s beautiful scenery, geology, wildlife and natural resources. It also explores the history of settlers from the Stone Age to the industrialists of the 19th Century.
The Town Hall was built in 1856 as an important part of the infrastructure servicing the growth of the limestone industry in Carnlough. Between the 1840s and the mid 1850s, the Marchioness of Londonderry, Frances Anne Vane Tempest, built a harbour, railway system, quarry office, shipping office, post office, hotel, school, houses and everything necessary to support the extraction and export of limestone. The ground floor of the Town Hall housed the quarry office and the kelp store. The first floor provided a room which was used for community events – tenants annual dinners, magic lantern shows, talks and other entertainments. This upstairs room has once again been restored as a flexible display and community meeting space which can be used for talks, meetings, presentations and training courses.
Additional facilities include: Victorian dress up for children, hands on learning, audio visual presentation, light refreshments, lift, full wheelchair accessibility (if possible check in advance if have large motorised chair or mobility scooter).
After you have discovered all about Carnlough you can go on an energetic walk to Cranny Falls via Carnlough Harbour or a guided tour around Carnlough can also be arranged.
Family Fun
A twenty minute drive from Lisowen House Carnfunnock Family Fun Zone is just that. There’s a miniature railway, mini golf, remote control boats and trucks, bungee trampolines and a carousel, water zorbing, a maze and Have-a-Go archery at weekends from Easter to September. Make sure to check what’s on before you set off especially if it’s the archery or zorbing you’re interested in!
Carnfunnock Family Fun Zone
A twenty minute drive from Lisowen House Carnfunnock Family Fun Zone is just that. There’s a miniature railway, mini golf, remote control boats and trucks, bungee trampolines and a carousel, water zorbing, a maze and Have-a-Go archery at weekends from Easter to September. Make sure to check what’s on before you set off especially if it’s the archery or zorbing you’re interested in!
A twenty-five minute drive from ‘Lisowen House’, Carnfunnock Country Park is 191 hectares of mixed woodland, colourful gardens, walking trails and a spectacular coastline with panoramic views of the Antrim Coast and North Channel. The walled garden with its unique sundials and wooden sculptures is open all year round along with a maritime themed outdoor adventure playground, golf driving range, 18 hole mini- golf course, way-marked walks, orienteering course, wildlife garden, picnic sites and every Saturday morning there is a Parkrun - subject to weather conditions.
31 personas del lugar lo recomiendan
Carnfunnock Country Park
Coast RoadA twenty-five minute drive from ‘Lisowen House’, Carnfunnock Country Park is 191 hectares of mixed woodland, colourful gardens, walking trails and a spectacular coastline with panoramic views of the Antrim Coast and North Channel. The walled garden with its unique sundials and wooden sculptures is open all year round along with a maritime themed outdoor adventure playground, golf driving range, 18 hole mini- golf course, way-marked walks, orienteering course, wildlife garden, picnic sites and every Saturday morning there is a Parkrun - subject to weather conditions.
Larne Leisure Centre is a thirty minute drive from ‘Lisowen House’. It has both an adult and a children’s pool, fitness suite, squash courts, weights room, indoor football and basketball sports’ halls and a multi-purpose studio for classes. It is always advisable to telephone before you travel to ensure the pools are open (as they can be hired by the public) or to book classes or courts.
Larne Leisure Centre
28 Tower RdLarne Leisure Centre is a thirty minute drive from ‘Lisowen House’. It has both an adult and a children’s pool, fitness suite, squash courts, weights room, indoor football and basketball sports’ halls and a multi-purpose studio for classes. It is always advisable to telephone before you travel to ensure the pools are open (as they can be hired by the public) or to book classes or courts.
The Zoo is a lovely day out for individuals as much as families! The zoo is located on the north eastern slope of Cavehill mountain. It is a 55 acre site and is home to more than 1,200 animals and 140 species. The zoo carries out important conservation work and takes part in over 90 European and international breeding programmes which help to ensure the survival of many species under threat. The zoo is approximately a 50 minute drive from Lisowen House.
66 personas del lugar lo recomiendan
Zoológico de Belfast
Antrim RoadThe Zoo is a lovely day out for individuals as much as families! The zoo is located on the north eastern slope of Cavehill mountain. It is a 55 acre site and is home to more than 1,200 animals and 140 species. The zoo carries out important conservation work and takes part in over 90 European and international breeding programmes which help to ensure the survival of many species under threat. The zoo is approximately a 50 minute drive from Lisowen House.
Larne Omniplex is a thirty minute drive from ‘Lisowen House’. It is an 8 screen cinema which shows all the latest releases.
7 personas del lugar lo recomiendan
Omniplex
Larne Omniplex is a thirty minute drive from ‘Lisowen House’. It is an 8 screen cinema which shows all the latest releases.
A thirty minute drive from ‘Lisowen House’ Ballymena Cinema shows the latest releases.
IMC Cinema Ballymena
30 Larne Rd LinkA thirty minute drive from ‘Lisowen House’ Ballymena Cinema shows the latest releases.
Golf Courses
A handy 15 minute drive from ‘Lisowen House’ on the scenic Coast Road will see you arrive at the panoramic views of Cairndhu Golf Club.
7 personas del lugar lo recomiendan
Cairndhu Golf Club
192 Coast RdA handy 15 minute drive from ‘Lisowen House’ on the scenic Coast Road will see you arrive at the panoramic views of Cairndhu Golf Club.
A 55 minute drive inland via Ballymena will take you to this magnificent Golf Club which is often used for world renown competitions. You could travel inland in the morning, enjoy the day golfing and return at your leisure via the A2 Coast Road.
97 personas del lugar lo recomiendan
Royal Portrush Golf Club
A 55 minute drive inland via Ballymena will take you to this magnificent Golf Club which is often used for world renown competitions. You could travel inland in the morning, enjoy the day golfing and return at your leisure via the A2 Coast Road.
Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort
136 Fenaghy RdConsejos sobre la ciudad
Cómo moverse
Carnlough Bay Boat Tours
Carnlough Bay Boat Tours is a wonderful opportunity, not to be missed. The aptly named ‘Curiosity’ sets sail daily from Carnlough Harbour. You will enjoy the beautiful landscapes of rugged cliffs and rolling green hills; you will enjoy the local wildlife and perhaps be fortunate to see dolphins and seals (frequent visitors to the bay) and you will have an opportunity to learn about Carnlough fishermen from your skipper, Davy Smyth.
Cómo moverse
Public Transport
‘Lisowen House’ is situated minutes away from two bus stops. During the Summer months public transport by bus is excellent with routes to the local towns of Larne and Ballymena where a connecting service to Belfast by bus or train can be accessed. A bus service also operates right through to the Causeway Coast. However, to fully enjoy the Glens of Antrim and the Causeway Coastal Route a car is advised. There are so many beautiful little spots to stop and visit, to have a coffee or to dip your toes in the surf on a warm day!