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 houses the beautiful Ballintoy Harbour, accessible via a winding road with spectacular views of the coast, islands, and bustling harbor. Ballintoy boasts a rural Irish atmosphere, and is also a filming location in the TV series Game of Thrones, making it a one-stop-spot for fans of the show and those in search of a truly Irish experience. Be sure to stop at local spots such as Coffee & The Waves to enjoy the community.

The town sits near the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, first put in place by salmon fishermen in 1755 and sits 100 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, crossing a 20-meter-wide chasm that connects to the rocky island of Carrick-a-Rede. A walk along the bridge offers coastal views, as well as the chance to spot 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 such as the former prison tower, Curfew Tower, built in 1817, and the Layd Old Church. It is also just 10 minutes from Glenariff Forest Park, ideal for forest exploration and hiking trips, and is a half hour from Torr Head, a scenic drive from Ballycastle to Cushendun. For those in search of a sense of community, stop by in time for the Heart of the Glens Festival, a nine-day event in August featuring live music, parades, local cuisine, and more.

The Cushendun Caves, also featured in Game of Thrones, are another must-see, where visitors may explore rock cavities and formations created over millions of years. Glenariff is just 10 minutes from Cushendall, connected via the Red Arch tunnel, which sits directly below the Red Bay Castle ruins along the Causeway Coastal Route. 

Rostrevor, County Down

The vistas of the Mourne Mountains backdrop the town of Rostrevor, just 25 minutes from the town of Castlewellan. The town sits on the shores of Carlingford Lough with access to the towering Slieve Martin summit. There are several destinations to enjoy an afternoon stroll, including Rostrevor Forest and Kilbroney Park, which features the ‘Big Stone’ and Narnia Trail, the area that inspired author C.S. Lewis.  Historical spots in town include St. Bronagh’s 6th Century Church and Bell and Giant Murphy’s Grave, as well as the Ross Monument on Shore Road, erected in 1826. Travelers may also partake in a scenic drive around the Cooley Peninsula, a hike to the stunning views from Kodak Corner, or an enchanting walk along Fairy Glen Walk, said to be inhabited 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 may also enjoy a trip to Carnfunnock Country Park, with 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 sits on the northeast coast of the Ards Peninsula and south of Belfast. One of the top attractions is the Donaghadee Motte, a moat constructed in the 12th century by Anglo-Normans, home to the Gunpowder Store castle constructed in 1821. There are also several scenic walking routes, including the Promenade and Commons along the harbor and the Heritage Walk with views of the Isle of Man and historic buildings such as Manor House, the Presbyterian and Methodist churches, and the Parish Church. Visitors may also enjoy sailing, boating, and fishing in Donaghadee Harbour, featuring the Donaghadee Lighthouse and the nearest port to Scotland. There are also several 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-esque Castlewellan Castle, there is endless opportunity for adventure in Ireland, with a plethora of local pubs, festivals, and events that are sure to integrate visitors into the community, creating a newfound sense of home and excitement all rolled into one.