Antrim Castle Gardens

What You'll Find

Antrim Castle Gardens is one of those lovely free spots where you can easily spend a couple of hours exploring with the kids!

There's so much to see, from beautiful gardens and winding little paths to ponds, fountains, bridges and plenty of green space for the wee ones to run around.

One of the best bits for children is the garden maze! Let the kids lead the way and see if they can find their way through. It's a fun little stop and something a bit different from your usual family walk.

As you wander around the gardens, you'll find colourful flower beds, water features and lots of lovely little corners to explore. Keep an eye out for ducks and other wildlife around the ponds too!

You'll also find Clotworthy House within the grounds, which has a visitor centre and exhibitions. It's worth popping in for a look if it's open.

If you fancy a longer walk, follow the paths towards the Six Mile Water and enjoy a wander along the riverside. There's plenty of space to explore, and the gardens are particularly beautiful in spring and summer when everything is in bloom.

And if the kids still have plenty of energy, Antrim Lough Shore Park is another lovely spot nearby, with a children's playground, walks along Lough Neagh and places to stop for a picnic.

Antrim Castle Gardens is a great one for a family walk, especially if you're looking for somewhere free with plenty of little things for the kids to discover along the way.

Wee Ones Will Love...

• ✓Finding their way through the garden maze
• ✓Exploring the bridges, fountains and winding garden paths
• ✓Spotting ducks and wildlife around the ponds
• ✓Running about on the open lawns
• ✓Having a picnic or heading towards the Six Mile Water for a longer walk

Before You Visit

Antrim Castle Gardens is free to explore, making it a lovely budget-friendly family outing.

There are ponds, fountains and open water throughout the gardens, so keep younger children close.

Many of the main paths are suitable for prams, although some smaller paths may be uneven or muddy after rain.

Clotworthy House and its exhibitions may have different opening times from the gardens.

There are parking facilities nearby, and it's worth checking for seasonal family events and activities throughout the year.

⭐ Wee Adventurers Top Tips

• ⭐Don't miss the maze! Let the wee ones lead the way and see who can find the way out first.
• ⭐Bring a picnic if the weather's nice. There are plenty of lovely spots to stop around the gardens.
• ⭐Keep an eye out for the little bridges, fountains and water features as you explore. There's lots to discover along the paths.
• ⭐If you fancy a longer walk, head towards the Six Mile Water and enjoy the riverside scenery.
• ⭐You could also combine your visit with Antrim Lough Shore Park for another playground and a walk beside Lough Neagh.