The four best places to visit in Northern Ireland
If you're visiting Northern Ireland soon then take a look at these four gorgeous historic houses and gardens to explore while out and about.
Northern Ireland is home to a few stunning examples of historic gardens. Our pick of the four best places to visit in Northern Ireland includes some of the best gardens to visit in the UK. From the Butterfly Garden of Seaforde to the walled garden of Glenarm Castle – one of the oldest gardens in Ireland. You can explore them by scrolling down, while we have a map of the region you can see here.
Benvarden, Co Antrim
The grounds include a beautiful walled garden, created in the late 18th century, which has remained largely unchanged. It features espaliered fruit trees, herbaceous borders, roses and a lavender parterre. The estate also houses a Woodland Pond, orignally created in the 19th century, which has been recreated by the present owners Hugh and Valerie Montgomery.
It is now planted with Azaleas, Camellias and, in the spring, Snowdrops carpet the area, followed by Bluebells.
Glenarm Castle, Co Antrim
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 and has been their primary residence since moving from Dunluce Castle in 1639.
Montalto Estate, Co Down
Montalto is a beautiful estate nestled in the picturesque surroundings of the County Down countryside. Its grounds include an Alpine Garden, a Winter Garden, a Cutting Garden, an Orchard, a Walled Garden and a Formal Garden.
Convenient to Ireland’s airports, famous links golf courses and the attractions of nearby Belfast, this special hideaway is one of Ireland’s best kept secrets.
Seaforde, Co Down
Experience the beauty of free-flying tropical butterflies close up as you walk through the steamy jungle interior of the butterfly house and survey the walled garden from above or simply relax and enjoy the extraordinary collection of trees and plants within Seaforde’s renowned gardens.
Explore other UK regions
Become a Historic Houses member
Explore the nation’s heritage from just £68 per year.
Hundreds of the most beautiful historic houses, castles, and gardens across Britain offer our members free entry.
Also: receive a quarterly magazine, enjoy monthly online lectures, get exclusive invitations to buy tickets for behind-the-scenes tours, and take up a range of special offers on holidays, books, and other products you might like.
