Seven National Trust Treasures in Northern Ireland
The National Trust is a conservation charity showcasing the beauty and history of Northern Ireland, as well as England and Wales. From one corner of the country to the other, homes, gardens, and cafes and cottages welcome you to experience history first-hand. And by supporting the National Trust, they open doors that normally would have been shut. And with your booking, the sustainability of these properties continues throughout generations.
Here’s seven sites and lands worth exploring. Remember you can also stay in some of these historic properties; your rental helps to preserve and maintain the properties, as well. Many cottages, as well as multiple sites, are dog friendly, so bring your four-legged family member and explore.
Traveler’s Tip: I suggest a two-night stay at the Carrick-a-Rede Cottage (amenities include a washer and dryer which is GOLD in Ireland); stay the night and then walk the bridge, a one lane 200-year-old bridge rising 100 feet over the sea. You are close to the Giant’s Causeway, the Dark Hedges and the Causeway Coastal Route.
There’s lots more to see and do, and you can find the complete list on the National Trust website. Before heading out to any of the properties, check the website for current opening and closing information, especially in the winter when Irish weather changes on a dime.
1. Mount Stewart (County Down)
A grand house and gardens, renowned for its beautiful grounds and collection of art and furniture. Peak season: adult, €15.40; family €38.50
2. The Giant's Causeway (County Antrim)
Walk in the steps of giants. The Giant's Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage site located on the northern coast, famous for its unique formation of around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns created by volcanic activity millions of years ago. The dramatic landscape, with its hexagonal rock formations, is steeped in local legend, including tales of the giant Finn McCool, who is said to have built the causeway to cross to Scotland.
Peak season: adults, €23; adult family, €38. Tickets provide access to the visitors experience, gift shop, parking, all facilities, and guided tours. Walk through the center to the outside to catch the bus (€4 rt) or walk to the site. Dog friends. Wheelchair/scooters available for loan at no charge.
Traveler’s Tip: Stay at the Causeway Hotel, next door to the Giants Causeway Visitors Center. Booking includes parking and admission to the center.
3. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge (County Antrim)
A thrilling rope bridge that connects the mainland to the tiny island of Carrick. Composed by salmon fishermen in 1755 to bring their catch from the island to the mainland, the bridge has been restored from its one rope, one lane wooded walkway to a secure site. Salmon fishermen were said to hold their catch with one hand and the rope with the other.
Parking; €10. Bridge access, free.
Bucket list item: walk the bridge ✅
4. Dunluce Castle (County Antrim)
Dunluce Castle is a medieval fortress perched on a cliff edge overlooking the rugged North Antrim Coast. With its dramatic ruins and sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, it offers a glimpse into Ireland's turbulent past and rich history. Pick up the touring information guide upon arrival and learn about each room. Step inside the kitchen chimney to understand the magnitude of the castle.
Tickets: adults, €6; children €4
5. Castle Coole (County Fermanagh)
Located in a park with woodland trails, visit an extraordinary example of Neo-classical houses in Ireland. The family still lives in the home. Dog friendly
Peak season: adults (entire property), €13.20; family, €33
Traveler’s Tip: If you’re there to walk the trails or grounds, enter at the car park and save admission price. The historic Tallow House tea room (located near the stables) offers indoor and outdoor seating and a wonderful place for a sandwich and tea. The house once made the soap and candles for the estate.
6. Downhill Demesne and Hezlett House (County Londonderry)
Downhill Demesne and Hezlett House is quite extraordinary and requires a vist. The estate is best known for its Mussenden Temple, a stunning circular structure built in 1785 atop a cliff, designed as a summer library and inspired by the Temple of Vesta in Rome. The Hezlett House, a 17th-century thatched cottage, is also part of the site.
The estate's history dates back to the late 18th century, when it was developed by the 4th Earl of Bristol, the Bishop of Derry. The Mussenden Temple was originally intended as a folly and a place to admire the views of the surrounding landscape. The temple is perched on the cliff edge, adds to its iconic status.
As with many estates of the 17th century, it changed ownership many times, was eventually abandoned, and today, it’s ruins are open from dawn until dusk. Parking: pay and display, €7.50
7. The Argory (County Armagh)
A stately home set in extensive parkland with a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century life. Built in the 1820s for the MacGeough Bond family, The Argory was designed by Arthur and John Williamson of Dublin around 1819. The interior of this understated and intimate house remains unchanged since 1900
Tickets: adults, €10, family €26
The Trust protects a variety of natural, cultural, and historical assets throughout the region, providing a wealth of experiences for visitors interested in history, nature, and scenic beauty. Become a member of the National Trust and enjoy free admission (and more) to sites.
Family: two adults and children, €159 per year; family, one adult and children, €99 per year
Individual (26+): €91.20 per year; 18-25, €45.60 per year.
If you’re planning a trip to Northern Ireland, England or Wales and visiting historic sites is on your itineraries, membership is an affordable way to see everything. Plus, it aids in preservation and upkeep of these historical treasures.
