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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Terrace Hill Garden at Minnowburn, County Down, Northern Ireland

Walking in Northern Ireland

Fall in love with Northern Ireland’s breath-taking spring landscapes and embrace the season of renewal. From the golden dunes of Portstewart Strand to the vibrant woodland trails at Florence Court, our walking routes offer something special for everyone. This spring, let the trails through our cared-for places lead you through bursts of colour, fresh air, and the timeless beauty of Northern Ireland.

A family by the Sunken Garden at Castle Ward, Co 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.

Green grass with a pale blue sky and a darker blue strip of sea in the distance behind a grey temple structure

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.

Coast and beaches in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland’s world-class coastal route comes alive in spring. From the rugged headland of Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne to the softly greening dunes of Murlough National Nature Reserve, the landscape awakens with colour and life. Along the way, discover both world-famous landmarks and hidden gems, from the iconic rope bridge at Carrick-a-Rede to the awe-inspiring basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway.

A dog sits patiently by his owners who are sat on a big yellow bench at the Top of the Gorge Festival 2019 at Cheddar Gorge, Somerset

Dog-friendly places in Northern Ireland

With water bowls, hitching posts, and plenty of ground to explore, the places in our care aren’t just for history-loving hounds. As spring breathes new life into sandy beaches and woodland trails, it’s the perfect season for outdoor adventures with your pup. From dedicated exercise areas to dog-friendly accommodation, discover a slice of canine heaven as you and your four-legged friend make the most of brighter days and fresh air.

Celebrate spring at National Trust with Easter trails, blooming gardens, and chocolatey rewards.

Easter egg trails, events and activities

Celebrate Easter with the whole family. Explore nature on our Easter Egg trails, with fun challenges like egg and spoon races, sack races, and wild art. Enjoy chocolate rewards and a great day out at stunning locations across Northern Ireland this Easter.

The small white flowers of the hawthorn tree are backlit by the orange glow of a summer sunset

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Spring blossom in Northern Ireland

The best places to see spring blossom in Northern Ireland include the fragrant magnolia at Springhill, the ancient apple orchards at Ardress and seasonal blooms at Rowallane Garden.

Rose Cottage in the garden at Florence Court, County Fermanagh

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Be our guest

Embrace the freshness of spring with a rejuvenating getaway in Northern Ireland, where you can wake up to dewdrop-covered meadows or fall asleep to the rhythmic lull of the ocean. From tranquil, misty loughs to rolling green landscapes bursting into bloom, discover the northern reaches of the Emerald Isle in unique accommodations like cosy 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 spring escape filled with breathtaking scenery, seasonal charm, and rich heritage.

A table set for lunch with sandwiches, cake and drinks.

Feeling peckish?

Tuck into a great day out with our places to eat and drink across Northern Ireland. Enjoy classic scones in traditional tearooms and seasonal soups in courtyard cafes. With indoor and outdoor seating, dine in the doorway to nature, beauty and history.

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.

View across the lake at Mount Stewart with green trees on the other side and a glimpse of a turret between the trees

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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.

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.

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Guided Garden Walks - Spring Edition

Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down

Come and join a member of the Gardens Team on a tour which will look at seasonal highlights from late winter and spring, including trees, flowering shrubs and bulbs.

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Volunteering in The Argory's Walled Garden

The Argory, Dungannon, County Armagh

Join us for some volunteering sessions to help spruce up our walled garden

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St Patrick's Day Festival Weekend

Giant's Causeway, Bushmills, County Antrim

St Patrick's Day is coming to the land of legends...BIGGER AND BETTER than ever before!

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National Lottery Open Week at Castle Coole

Castle Coole, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh

As a thank you to National Lottery players for supporting our conservation work, we're offering free entry during National Lottery Open Week! Bring your lottery ticket or scratch card and explore Castle Coole for free.

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National Lottery Open Week at Crom

Crom, Newtownbutler, County Fermanagh

As a thank you to National Lottery players for supporting our conservation work, we're offering free entry during National Lottery Open Week! Bring your lottery ticket or scratch card and explore Crom for free.

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1-Day Blacksmithing Courses 2025

Patterson's Spade Mill, Templepatrick, County Antrim

Take time out of your daily hustle and bustle and have a crack at being a Blacksmith for a day. Select from a range of dates throughout the year.

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National Lottery Open Week at Florence Court

Florence Court, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh

As a thank you to National Lottery players for supporting our conservation work, we're offering free entry during National Lottery Open Week! Bring your lottery ticket or scratch card and explore Florence Court for free.