Portglenone Forest is well known for the stunning carpet of bluebells that bloom throughout the site in spring. However, with its winding paths leading visitors through the ancient woodland to the banks of the River Bann, it's a beautiful spot for a walk any time of the year.Portglenone Forest is well known for the stunning carpet of bluebells that bloom throughout the site in spring. However, with its winding paths leading visitors through the ancient woodland to the banks of the River Bann, it's a beautiful spot for a walk any time of the year.
Portglenone Forest is well known for the stunning carpet of bluebells that bloom throughout the site in spring. However, with its winding paths leading visitors through the ancient woodland to the banks of the River Bann, it's a beautiful spot for a walk any time of the year.

9 places to take a friend who has never been to the Mid and East Antrim area

By Helena McManus
Published 30th Apr 2024, 12:36 BST
Updated 7th May 2024, 15:13 BST
Stretching from the Glens of Antrim in the north to the boundary of Greater Belfast, Mid and East Antrim is a large borough with plenty of great things to see and do.

But what are the ‘must see’ destinations for anyone visiting the area for the first time?

We asked local residents for their help in identifying some of the borough’s top spots, whether you’re hoping to soak up some history and culture, pick up a unique gift, or simply enjoy a bite to eat while taking in spectacular views.

For both beautiful scenery and an active day out, where better to bring a newcomer than the Gobbins cliff path? One of Tripadvisor's top attractions in the area, the route brings visitors across a suspension bridge, tunnels and along pathways for an up close and personal experience of the coastline.

5. Gobbins cliff path, Islandmagee

For both beautiful scenery and an active day out, where better to bring a newcomer than the Gobbins cliff path? One of Tripadvisor's top attractions in the area, the route brings visitors across a suspension bridge, tunnels and along pathways for an up close and personal experience of the coastline. Photo: Mid and East Antrim Borough Council

Situated at the crossroads of Cairncastle village, this traditional pubs dates back to the 1800s and is where many residents would opt to wind down with a pint or two - particularly after a walk along the beautiful Sallagh Braes.

6. Mattie's Meeting House, Cairncastle

Situated at the crossroads of Cairncastle village, this traditional pubs dates back to the 1800s and is where many residents would opt to wind down with a pint or two - particularly after a walk along the beautiful Sallagh Braes. Photo: Google maps

No list of Mid and East Antrim's top spots would be complete without one of the borough's oldest landmarks. Situated on the shores of Belfast Lough, Carrickfergus Castle dates back over 800 years. The distinctive Norman monument is open to the public, and visitors can enjoy the many exhibits showing what life was like in medieval times, or simply take in the view over the lough from the battlements. Even better is the legend of the castle's ghost, said to be a soldier known as 'Buttoncap'.

7. Carrickfergus Castle

No list of Mid and East Antrim's top spots would be complete without one of the borough's oldest landmarks. Situated on the shores of Belfast Lough, Carrickfergus Castle dates back over 800 years. The distinctive Norman monument is open to the public, and visitors can enjoy the many exhibits showing what life was like in medieval times, or simply take in the view over the lough from the battlements. Even better is the legend of the castle's ghost, said to be a soldier known as 'Buttoncap'. Photo: Helena McManus

This 200 year old woollen mill, set in 16 acres near the picturesque village of Broughshane, hosts a thriving business community and is a great place for a walk, a coffee, or a bite to eat.

8. Raceview Mill, Broughshane

This 200 year old woollen mill, set in 16 acres near the picturesque village of Broughshane, hosts a thriving business community and is a great place for a walk, a coffee, or a bite to eat. Photo: Google

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