Northern Ireland

From the world-famous Giant's Causeway to the world-class Mount Stewart estate, discover places to visit and things to see and do in Northern Ireland.

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Family exploring the house dressed for Christmas at Mount Stewart

Christmas in Northern Ireland

Discover Christmas days out at National Trust places in Northern Ireland. Explore festively decorated historic houses, browse Christmas markets and more.

Spanish Garden in winter at Mount Stewart, County Down

Gardens and parks in Northern Ireland

The National Trust look after the greatest collection of historic gardens and garden plants under single ownership in Europe, if not the world. With Rose Gardens, Walled Gardens and Kitchen Gardens, discover some of the best historic gardens in Northern Ireland. Voted as one of the top ten gardens in the world, Mount Stewart reflects a rich tapestry of design and planting artistry while Castle Ward is home to one of the best examples of a Victorian garden in Ireland.

Houses and buildings in Northern Ireland

Whether built through a martial disagreement, family rivalry or even a quirky stipulation in a will, each of the houses and buildings in our care has its own unique story to share. From Castle Coole, one of the greatest Neo-classical country houses in Ireland, to The Crown Bar, a masterpiece in pub architecture, intriguing items and fascinating finds speak of centuries ceased and capture a snapshot in time.

Family exploring the Christmas trail at Rowallane Garden, County Down

Walking in Northern Ireland

Step into Northern Ireland’s enchanting landscapes this Christmas season and feel the warmth of its festive welcome. Whether you’re strolling or hiking, iconic sites like the Giant's Causeway invite you to explore coastal paths glistening with winter’s charm, while ancient bogs whisper their tales along frost-touched boardwalks.

Dog walkers can enjoy a winter stroll on Portstewart Strand.

Coast and beaches in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland boasts a world-class coastal route. From the rugged headland at Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne to the gently rolling dune landscape of Murlough National Nature Reserve, there are world-famous landmarks and hidden gems to discover along the way. With the famous rope bridge at Carrick-a-Rede and the UNESCO World Heritage Site at the Giant's Causeway dotted on the coast, enjoy bucket list adventures on the north coast of Ireland.

Visitors enjoying festive treats with their dog

Dog-friendly places in Northern Ireland

With water bowls, hitching posts and plenty of ground to cover, the places in our care aren't just for history-loving hounds. The sandy beaches and woodland trails on offer are a dog-walker's dream. From dog exercise areas to dog-friendly accommodation, discover a slice of canine heaven when visiting with your four-legged friend.

A Climate for Change: Adaptation and the National Trust, sets out the actions we'll be taking in the next stage of our journey to tackle the climate and nature crises. It builds on over two decades of work to ensure coastline, countryside, rivers and historic buildings are ready for and resilient to the current and future consequences of climate change.

A child on their parent's shoulders admiring a view across the water of Stangford Lough from Mount Stewart

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Responding to climate change at Mount Stewart

Climate change is the biggest threat to the coastline, countryside and historic buildings we care for. Our new report reveals how we’re tackling its causes and effects and identifying future hazards. From protecting and planting trees to working with coastal communities, helping people, heritage and nature adapt to a changing climate is at the heart of everything we do. Find out how we’re adapting to rising sea levels and creating new wildlife habitats at Mount Stewart in County Down. Read the full report here.

A line of volunteers walk uphill on a hedgerow creation day at Foel, Eryri (Snowdonia), North Wales

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How we're adapting to climate change

We see the effects of climate change all around us. So, what are we going to do about it? Our recent report ‘A Climate for Change’ covers everything we’ve learnt so far about adapting to climate change, and what we suggest can be done to face future challenges. We'll be using lessons from the last century of caring for these places of nature, beauty and history to help us navigate the next.

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Be our guest

Embrace the magic of winter with a cosy getaway in Northern Ireland, where you can wake up to frost-kissed landscapes or fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the ocean. From tranquil, misty loughs to legendary snow-dusted landscapes, discover the northern reaches of the Emerald Isle in unique accommodations like snug woodland glamping pods or charming coastal cottages. With new cottages available at Carrick-a-Rede and Castle Ward, it’s the perfect time to plan a Christmas or winter escape to remember, surrounded by breathtaking scenery, festive charm, and rich heritage.

Visits chatting in the cafe over a cuppa with a Christmas tree in the background

Feeling peckish?

Tuck into a great day out with our places to eat and drink across Northern Ireland. Enjoy classic scones in the Courtyard Cafe at The Argory, seasonal selected soups at Mount Stewart or a pub lunch at Mary McBride's in Cushendun. From a cosy corner in a quaint tea-room to a traditional pub which was once the oldest in Ireland, dine in a doorway to nature, beauty and history.

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Santa Letter Trail

Rowallane Garden, Saintfield, County Down

Have you written a letter to Santa? Come and post it with us to make sure your Christmas wishes make their way to the North Pole in time for the big day.

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Festive family trail

Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down

Embark on Mount Stewart's festive trail, circling the serene lake. Celebrate the season's joy surrounded by winter wonders. Join us for a magical holiday experience!

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Pooch Passport

Rowallane Garden, Saintfield, County Down

Visit our places between 1 September 2024 and 28 February 2025 and collect four stamps for your dog(s) to claim their free packet of natural dog treats, and eight stamps to get a free snood.

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Winter Wellbeing Walk

Divis and the Black Mountain, near Belfast, County Antrim

Shake off the post-Holiday blues and embrace the fresh air with our festive wellbeing walk to the summit of Divis Mountain. This invigorating hike is the perfect way to rejuvenate your spirit and enjoy the stunning winter landscape.

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The New Year Plant Hunt Event 31 December

Murlough National Nature Reserve, Dundrum, County Down

Join, Jen Farrar - BSBI Botanical SKills Officer, Northern Ireland, for the BSBI New Year Plant Hunt (NYPH) at Murlough National Trust NNR.

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The New Year Plant Hunt Event- 1 January

Murlough National Nature Reserve, Dundrum, County Down

Join Jen Farrar - BSBI Botanical SKills Officer, Northern Ireland, for the BSBI New Year Plant Hunt (NYPH) at Murlough National Trust NNR from 10.30am to approximately 14.00pm on New Year's Day, Wednesday 1 January.