Glenarm Castle Gardens, Antrim, Northern Ireland

Glenarm Castle was built in 1636 by the Earls of Antrim and is where the current Viscount Randal Dunluce, the 15th Earl of Antrim, now lives.



You can find Glenarm Castle Gardens in the middle of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and, on a clear day, you can see Scotland from the nearby beach. The site has always had strong links with the Scottish people; there has been a castle here since 1260, when John Bisset, expelled from Scotland, settled in Glenarm. The Scots returned in 1642 to burn down the castle we see today, which had been built in 1636. Most of its original details were lost, and the ruin was rebuilt in 1750, along with the walled garden which is  open to visitors. 

A walk in the garden will take you past rose borders, herb gardens and water features. Once a year you can visit a gardening festival, showcasing tulips in May, and other flowers in August. There’s also an apple orchard and a kitchen garden which supplies food for the main house. As you wander through the garden you’ll see little parts of Ireland scattered throughout: pebbles from the local beach in the fountain, stone features in the herb garden from Downhill Demesne found further up the coast… Glenarm Castle Gardens testifies to the beauty of Ireland and the intricate family ties that link almost every citizen there. Have a chat to the lady running the tea-room and you might just find that you’re related.



Glenarm Castle Gardens, Antrim, Northern Ireland
Glenarm Castle Gardens, Antrim, Northern Ireland
Glenarm Castle Gardens, Antrim, Northern Ireland
Glenarm Castle Gardens, Antrim, Northern Ireland

Opening Hours

Monday:
09:00 - 17:00
Tuesday:
09:00 - 17:00
Wednesday:
09:00 - 17:00
Thursday:
09:00 - 17:00
Friday:
09:00 - 17:00
Saturday:
09:00 - 17:00
Sunday:
09:00 - 17:00
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