Attractions and Places To See around Bleerick - Top 5
Best attractions and places to see around Bleerick include a mix of historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural landmarks. The region is characterized by its significant historical gardens, ancient monastic settlements, and the expansive Lough Neagh. Visitors can explore a variety of settings, from serene forest trails to impressive architectural monuments, offering insights into the area's rich past and natural beauty. Bleerick provides diverse opportunities for exploration, appealing to those interested in history, nature, and local folklore.
Best attractions and places to see around Bleerick
- The most popular attractions is Antrim Castle Gardens, a historical site that features 400-year-old gardens and the refurbished Clotworthy House. This magnificent setting offers a unique visitor experience with its beautiful features and a Garden Heritage Exhibition.
- Another must-see spot is Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim, a viewpoint offering scenic walking along the shore of Ireland's largest lake. Visitors can expect gorgeous vantage points to enjoy the expansive waters of Lough Neagh.
- Visitors also love Antrim Round Tower, an impressive reminder of Antrim's ancient monastic settlement. Built around the 10th century as a bell tower, this 28-meter-tall structure is one of the finest of its kind in Ireland.
- Bleerick is known for its historical sites, natural viewpoints, and forested areas. The region offers a variety of attractions including ancient gardens, expansive lake shores, and significant historical monuments to see and explore.
- The attractions around Bleerick are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 25 upvotes and 14 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
Antrim Castle Gardens
Highlight • Historical Site
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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Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim
Highlight • Viewpoint
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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 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 Protector of the Lough
Highlight • Monument
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Tips from the Community
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 visit around Bleerick?
The region is rich in history. You can explore the 400-year-old Antrim Castle Gardens, which also features the refurbished Clotworthy House and a Garden Heritage Exhibition. Another significant historical landmark is the Antrim Round Tower, a 28-meter-tall structure built around the 10th century, serving as an impressive reminder of the area's ancient monastic settlement.
Are there any natural attractions or viewpoints to enjoy the scenery?
Absolutely. The Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim offers scenic walking paths with gorgeous vantage points to enjoy Ireland's largest lake. For a more immersive nature experience, Randalstown Forest is a 430-acre mixed conifer forest with walking routes, an owl conservation center, and a deer park.
What family-friendly activities are available around Bleerick?
Many attractions are suitable for families. Antrim Castle Gardens provides plenty of space to explore with its historical features and beautiful landscapes. The Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim is great for leisurely walks, and Randalstown Forest offers trails and opportunities to observe wildlife, including fallow deer.
Can I find hiking trails near these attractions?
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. You can find easy hikes like the Loughshore Trail - Antrim Loop or the Antrim Castle Gardens – Antrim Castle Ruins loop. For more options and detailed routes, explore the Hiking around Bleerick guide.
Are there easy walks suitable for beginners or those seeking a relaxed stroll?
Yes, the area offers many easy walks. Consider the Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim – Lough Neagh Shoreline loop or the Antrim Castle Gardens – The Protector of the Lough loop. More easy routes can be found in the Easy hikes around Bleerick guide.
What unique cultural or folklore-related attractions are there?
You can visit 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, it celebrates the local folklore of the Lough and is also wheelchair accessible.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Bleerick?
Visitors particularly appreciate the historical depth of places like Antrim Castle Gardens, noting its 400-year-old features and the story of the Massereene family. The scenic beauty of the Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim and the impressive architecture of the Antrim Round Tower are also highly praised.
Are there cycling routes available near the attractions?
Yes, there are several road cycling routes in the vicinity. Options include the Divis Mountain & Antrim Castle loop or longer rides like the Antrim Castle Ruins – The Rinkha Ice Cream Parlour loop. For more details, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Bleerick guide.
Is Randalstown Forest suitable for a day out?
Yes, Randalstown Forest is an excellent choice for a day out. This 430-acre mixed conifer forest features several walking routes, an owl conservation center, and a deer park where you can quietly observe up to 25 resident fallow deer. There are also two small adjacent nature reserves on the shores of Lough Neagh.
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 as a bell tower for an early Christian monastery, it is one of the finest examples of its kind in Ireland and is locally known as The Steeple. It offers a glimpse into Antrim's ancient monastic past.
Are there any attractions that are wheelchair accessible?
Yes, The Protector of the Lough statue at Antrim Marina is noted as wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy this unique cultural monument.
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