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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The park at Winter time, Castle Coole, County Fermanagh

Walking in Northern Ireland

Step into Northern Ireland’s enchanting landscapes this winter season and embrace the crisp beauty of the colder months. 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 the gardens at Mount Stewart offer a serene escape, with frosted lawns, tranquil woodland walks, and breath-taking views.

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.

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.

Family enjoy winter walk with their dog in the park at Castle Ward, County Down

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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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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New Year Ramble

Giant's Causeway, Bushmills, County Antrim

Ready to kickstart 2025 with some winter wellness? It's time to blow off the cobwebs! Join Nature Engagement Officer, Dr Cliff Henry for an early morning ramble at the World Heritage Site, before enjoying a delicious breakfast in The Causeway Hotel.

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Patterson's Spade Mill Guided Tour

Patterson's Spade Mill, Templepatrick, County Antrim

Witness over 250 years of spade making history at the last water powered spade mill, in daily operation, in the UK.

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Patterson's Spade Mill Interactive Tour

Patterson's Spade Mill, Templepatrick, County Antrim

Experience 250 years of spade making history at the last water powered spade mill, still in daily operation, in the UK. Engage your senses as you feel the heat of the forge, see the flames and hear the ring of hammers on steel.

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Hardwood Cuttings & lifting and dividing masterclass (Half Day)

Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down

This half day workshop will focus on Hardwood Cuttings - the quickest way to grow deciduous plants and shrubs and lifting and dividing herbaceous plants.