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.

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.

A pile of three slices of millionaire's shortbread next to a cup of coffee in a cup with a wood-like finish to it.

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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March Book Fair

Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down

In celebration of World Book Day head to Mount Stewart for the second-hand book fair.

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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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Photography Walk with artist Polly Garnet - celebrate International Women’s day

Divis and the Black Mountain, near Belfast, County Antrim

Come join artist Polly Garnett on a guided photography walk to the summit of Divis to celebrate International Women's Day.

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World Book Day at Rowallane Garden

Rowallane Garden, Saintfield, County Down

Join us on 8 March for a magical day filled with books, costumes, and exciting activities.

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World Book Day Book Fair at The Argory

The Argory, Dungannon, County Armagh

Fuel your imagination with a visit to the book fair at The Argory

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Hezlett Book Fair

Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne, Castlerock, County Londonderry

Fuel your imagination and celebrate the joy of reading with a visit to our second-hand book fair in Hezlett House Dairy!

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SOLD OUT Learn to Illustrate with Paul Howard

Rowallane Garden, Saintfield, County Down

Join the illustrator of Jill Tomlinson's 'The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark' for a children's fun-filled drawing session.

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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.