Attractions and Places To See around Oldstone - Top 5
Best attractions and places to see around Oldstone include historical sites, extensive gardens, and natural landscapes. The region features the shores of Lough Neagh, Ireland's largest lake, alongside ancient structures and managed forests. Visitors can explore a variety of outdoor and cultural points of interest. This guide details 5 notable attractions in the Oldstone area.
Best attractions and places to see around Oldstone
- The most popular attractions is Antrim Castle Gardens, a historical site that features 400-year-old gardens with…
Last updated: June 17, 2026
Antrim Castle Gardens
Highlight • Historical Site
Walk into the past as you stroll …
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Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim
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Antrim Round Tower
Highlight • Historical Site
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Randalstown Forest
Highlight • Natural
Within the deer enclosure, there is the opportunity to quietly observe up …
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The Protector of the Lough
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The Round Tower is an impressive reminder of Antrim's ancient monastic settlement. Built around the 10th century as the monastery's bell tower, it is known locally as The Steeple. It stands 28 meters tall. The monastic site was burned down in 1147.
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The Protector of the Lough statue shows the mythological giant Finn McCool standing guard at Antrim Marina on the shores of Lough Neagh. It's an eight-metre-tall sculpture created by Spanish artist Casto Solan to celebrate the local folklore of the Lough.
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A 430 acre mixed conifer forest that contains an owl conservation centre, deer park and several walking routes. Within the deer enclosure, there is the opportunity to quietly observe up to 25 resident fallow deer. There are also two small adjacent nature reserves at the forest edge on the shores of Lough Neagh.
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The Round Tower is an impressive reminder of Antrim’s ancient monastic settlement. It was built around the 10th century as a bell-tower as part of the Early Christain monastery and is known locally as The Steeple. It is 28 metres tall and is one of the finest of its kind in Ireland. The monastic site was burned in 1147.
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Antrim Castle Gardens are an absolute historical gem. You will find nothing like these 400 year old gardens anywhere else in Northern Ireland. Walk into the past as you stroll around this magnificent setting, visiting beautiful features such as the Large Parterre, Her Ladyship’s Pleasure Garden and Yew Tree Pond. Within the heart of the Gardens is a unique visitor experience, the refurbished Clotworthy House. Visit the Garden Heritage Exhibition where you can read about the history of the Gardens and the story of the Massereene family. It provides a fantastic opportunity to come and learn about garden history how the lives of the key family members intertwine with the development of Antrim town and the surrounding areas.
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Scenic section of walking along the shore of Lough Neagh from Antrim. The lough holds the title of the largest lake in Ireland and this footpath gifts you with some gorgeous vantage points to enjoy it from.
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Castle gardens including various buildings and ruins on the river. Plenty to look at and explore in the gardens.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Oldstone?
The Oldstone area is rich in history. You can visit the 400-year-old Antrim Castle Gardens, which feature various architectural elements and a visitor experience within Clotworthy House. Another significant historical site is the Antrim Round Tower, an impressive 10th-century bell tower and a reminder of an ancient monastic settlement.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Oldstone region?
Yes, several attractions around Oldstone are suitable for families. Antrim Castle Gardens offers plenty to explore for all ages with its extensive grounds and historical exhibits. The Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim provides scenic walking paths, and Randalstown Forest features walking routes, an owl conservation centre, and a deer park, making it a great day out for families.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints or natural landscapes?
For stunning natural views, head to the Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim. This scenic section offers gorgeous vantage points along the edge of Ireland's largest lake. Randalstown Forest also provides natural beauty with its mixed conifer forest and nature reserves on the shores of Lough Neagh.
What outdoor activities can I do near Oldstone's attractions?
The Oldstone area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails like the Loughshore Trail or explore the grounds of Antrim Castle Gardens. For cycling enthusiasts, there are road cycling routes that take you past local landmarks. Running trails are also available, including loops around Antrim Castle Gardens and Lough Neagh. Find more details on routes in the hiking, road cycling, and running guides.
Are there any easy hiking trails around Oldstone?
Yes, there are several easy hiking options. The Loughshore Trail - Antrim Loop is an easy 7 km hike, and the Antrim Castle Gardens – Antrim Castle Ruins loop is an easy 5.5 km route. These trails offer pleasant walks suitable for various fitness levels. You can find more information in the hiking guide for Oldstone.
What unique cultural landmarks can I find in the area?
Beyond the historical sites, you can discover The Protector of the Lough, an eight-meter-tall sculpture of the mythological giant Finn McCool. Located at Antrim Marina on the shores of Lough Neagh, this monument celebrates local folklore and is a unique cultural highlight.
Is there anything wheelchair accessible among the attractions?
Yes, The Protector of the Lough statue at Antrim Marina is noted as wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy this unique cultural landmark.
What can I expect to see at Antrim Castle Gardens?
Antrim Castle Gardens offers a journey through 400 years of history. You'll find magnificent features like the Large Parterre, Her Ladyship’s Pleasure Garden, and Yew Tree Pond. The refurbished Clotworthy House within the gardens provides a visitor experience with a Garden Heritage Exhibition, detailing the history of the gardens and the Massereene family.
What is the significance of the Antrim Round Tower?
The Antrim Round Tower is a significant historical landmark, standing 28 meters tall. Built around the 10th century, it served as the bell tower for Antrim's ancient monastic settlement and is considered one of the finest examples of its kind in Ireland.
What kind of wildlife or nature can I experience at Randalstown Forest?
Randalstown Forest is a 430-acre mixed conifer forest where you can observe up to 25 resident fallow deer within its deer enclosure. The forest also features an owl conservation centre and two small adjacent nature reserves on the shores of Lough Neagh, offering opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying local flora and fauna.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Oldstone?
Visitors particularly appreciate the historical depth of places like Antrim Castle Gardens, often highlighting the 400-year-old features and the Clotworthy House experience. The scenic beauty and gorgeous vantage points along the Lough Neagh Shore are also highly praised, as is the impressive architecture of the Antrim Round Tower.
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