Attractions and Places To See around Crosskennan - Top 6

The area around Crosskennan is rich in history. You can explore the 400-year-old Antrim Castle Gardens, featuring various buildings and ruins, or visit the impressive Antrim Round Tower, a 10th-century monastic bell tower. Further afield in County Antrim, consider Dunluce Castle, Carrickfergus Castle, or Glenarm Castle & Gardens for more historical exploration.

Yes, the region offers several natural highlights. Enjoy scenic walking along the Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim, offering gorgeous vantage points of Ireland's largest lake. For panoramic vistas, head to the View of Slemish Mountain from Colin Road. You can also explore Randalstown Forest, a mixed conifer forest with walking routes and views of Lough Neagh.

Many attractions are suitable for families. Antrim Castle Gardens and the Antrim Round Tower are great for historical exploration. The Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim and Randalstown Forest offer pleasant walks and opportunities to observe nature, including a deer park and owl conservation centre at Randalstown Forest. The Crosskennan Lane Animal Sanctuary also offers animal rehabilitation and re-homing services, though visits are by appointment only.

There are several options for hiking and walking. You can find easy trails along the Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim or within Randalstown Forest. For more detailed routes, explore the easy hikes around Crosskennan or more general hiking routes around Crosskennan, which include trails like the Loughshore Trail - Antrim Loop.

Yes, the area offers various cycling routes. You can find options for road cycling, including routes that pass by Antrim Castle Gardens and along the Lough Shore. For specific routes and difficulty levels, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Crosskennan, which feature tours like the 'Divis Mountain & Antrim Castle loop'.

The Crosskennan Lane Animal Sanctuary is a local facility known for providing a permanent home for rescued horses, dogs, cats, and chickens. It specializes in animal rehabilitation and also offers re-homing services and owner education. Visits to the sanctuary are by appointment only.

Beyond the immediate vicinity of Crosskennan, County Antrim boasts significant natural wonders. These include the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Giant's Causeway with its basalt columns, the scenic Glens of Antrim, and Rathlin Island, home to Ireland's largest seabird colony. The Dark Hedges, an avenue of ancient beech trees, is also a striking natural highlight.

For a broader overview of historic places to visit across Northern Ireland, you can consult resources such as the Department for Communities' article on Historic Places to Visit.

Visitors particularly appreciate the historical depth and natural beauty of the area. The 400-year-old Antrim Castle Gardens are praised as an 'absolute historical gem' for their magnificent setting and unique visitor experience at Clotworthy House. The Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim is loved for its 'gorgeous vantage points' and scenic walks.

Absolutely. In addition to the historical elements within Antrim Castle Gardens and the ancient Antrim Round Tower, the wider County Antrim region features iconic castles such as Dunluce Castle and Carrickfergus Castle. These offer dramatic views and insights into Northern Ireland's rich past.

Beyond the immediate Crosskennan area, Northern Ireland offers diverse cultural experiences. You could visit the Bushmills Distillery, the world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery, or explore Titanic Belfast, an award-winning attraction detailing the famous ship's story. The Ulster Museum and Ulster American Folk Park also provide rich cultural and historical insights.

Yes, Randalstown Forest is a 430-acre mixed conifer forest that offers several walking routes. It also features an owl conservation centre and a deer park, providing opportunities for quiet observation of wildlife. Two small nature reserves are also located at the forest edge on the shores of Lough Neagh.