7 Most Welcoming Towns in Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland explodes with natural scenery and man-made attractions including the Giant's Causeway and Titanic Belfast, not to mention welcoming communities and plenty of annual events and festivals that draw in tourists from all over the world. Historic castles await exploration, as do the majestic cliffsides and beautiful islands of the Causeway coast. Northern Ireland is an incredible destination overflowing with beauty and excitement, all awaiting discovery in some of its most welcoming small towns.
Ballintoy, County Antrim
Five miles west of Ballycastle, one of the most charming small towns in Northern Ireland, the village of Ballintoy features the beautiful Ballintoy Harbour, accessible via a winding road with stunning views of the coast, islands, and busy harbor. Ballintoy offers a rural Irish vibe and is also a filming location for the TV series Game of Thrones, making it a must-see spot for fans and those looking for a genuine Irish experience. Be sure to visit local places like Coffee & The Waves to enjoy the community.
The town is located near the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, which was first built by salmon fishermen in 1755. It hangs 100 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, crossing a 20-meter-wide chasm that connects to the rocky island of Carrick-a-Rede. Walking along the bridge offers coastal views and a chance to see basking sharks, dolphins, razorbills, kittiwakes, and fulmars.
Castlewellan, County Down
The small town of Castlewellan sits just under two hours from Dublin and near the Irish Sea, also a few miles north of the Mountains of Mourne, which are home to some of the highest mountains in Northern Ireland. It also houses one of the world's largest permanent hedge maze, the Peace Maze, within the beautiful Castlewellan Forest Park, ideal for strolling and enjoying time with family. The village center is a great place to delve into the town's history, visiting historic spots such as the Old Market House, built in 1764, or Castlewellan Castle, built between 1856 and 1858. There is also plenty of room for outdoor activities, including kayaking along Castlewellan Lake or archery at Mourne Archery Center.
Cushendall, County Antrim
Cushendall sits in the foothills of Lurigethan Mountain and along the banks of the North Channel, part of the Causeway Coastal Route. The town is home to historical sites like the former prison tower, Curfew Tower, built in 1817, and the Layd Old Church. It is also just 10 minutes from Glenariff Forest Park, perfect for forest exploration and hiking, and a half hour from Torr Head, a scenic drive from Ballycastle to Cushendun. For those seeking a sense of community, stop by during the Heart of the Glens Festival, a nine-day event in August featuring live music, parades, local food, and more.
The Cushendun Caves, also featured in Game of Thrones, are a must-see, where visitors can explore ancient rock cavities and formations formed over millions of years. Glenariff, located just 10 minutes from Cushendall via the Red Arch tunnel—situated beneath the Red Bay Castle ruins along the Causeway Coastal Route—adds to the region's appeal.
Rostrevor, County Down
The Mourne Mountains provide a striking backdrop for Rostrevor, located just 25 minutes from Castlewellan. This town rests on Carlingford Lough's shores and offers access to the impressive Slieve Martin summit. Visitors can enjoy various destinations for an afternoon walk, such as Rostrevor Forest and Kilbroney Park, home to the ‘Big Stone’ and the Narnia Trail, which inspired C.S. Lewis. The town features historic sites including St. Bronagh’s 6th-century Church and Bell, Giant Murphy’s Grave, and the Ross Monument on Shore Road, built in 1826. Tourists can also enjoy a scenic drive around the Cooley Peninsula, hike to Kodak Corner for breathtaking views, or stroll along Fairy Glen Walk, said to be populated by fairies.
Ballygally, County Antrim
Ballygally is about a half hour from Cushendall, home to the scenic and sandy Ballygally Beach, situated on the Causeway Coastal Route. Just minutes from the beach is Ballygally Castle, built in the 17th century and overlooking Ballygally Bay, now known as one of the best hotels in the United Kingdom featuring original period rooms and architecture.
Travelers can also enjoy a visit to Carnfunnock Country Park, featuring woodlands, colorful gardens, walking trails, and views of the Antrim Coast and North Channel. The most haunted house in Northern Ireland is reportedly Cairndhu House, just five minutes outside of town. The mansion, built in the 1870s, operated as a hospital from 1947 to 1986, and there have since been many ghost sightings on the castle grounds, which are open to the public.
Belleek, County Fermanagh
Belleek is a charming village famous for its porcelain production, so a trip to the Belleek Pottery Visitor Center is a must. The center offers a trip through time, housing a museum with pottery pieces dating back to 1857, a charming tearoom, and views overlooking the River Erne as it meets the Atlantic Ocean. It is a mecca for collectors, home to handcrafted, intricate pieces that tell tales of Irish culture and history. The town's natural beauty does not escape visitors, with walkways along the River Erne, as well as cultural enticements including Irish pubs such as The Fiddlestone or The Black Cat Cove.
Donaghadee, County Down
Donaghadee is located on the northeast coast of the Ards Peninsula, south of Belfast. A notable attraction is the Donaghadee Motte, a moat built in the 12th century by the Anglo-Normans, which is near the Gunpowder Store castle built in 1821. The area offers several scenic walking routes, including the Promenade and Commons along the harbor, as well as the Heritage Walk with views of the Isle of Man and historic sites like Manor House, the Presbyterian and Methodist churches, and the Parish Church. Visitors can also enjoy sailing, boating, and fishing in Donaghadee Harbour, which features the lighthouse and serves as the nearest port to Scotland. The town hosts annual events such as Carols by Candlelight, the Open Golf Competition, and the Artisan Market.
Enjoy a Trip to Northern Ireland!
From the dramatic sea cliffs of the Causeway Coastal Route to the historic castles and local pubs, adventure awaits in the small towns of Northern Ireland. From the picturesque Ballintoy Harbour near Giant's Causeway to the fairytale-like Castlewellan Castle, there are endless opportunities for adventure in Ireland, with a wide variety of local pubs, festivals, and events that are sure to help visitors connect with the community, creating a new sense of home and excitement all in one.
