Best attractions and places to see around Halftown encompass a range of historical sites and natural landscapes. The region features significant historical gardens and ancient structures, alongside expansive lake shores and scenic mountain views. These locations offer opportunities for exploring historical heritage and enjoying the natural environment. The area provides diverse points of interest for visitors.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
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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 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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Killylane Reservoir is a pristine reservoir situated on open moorland near Ballyboley Forest. It's a real hidden treasure and a perfect spot for a run. You can laze along the lush green banks overlooking the water to stretch and unwind post-jog.
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Killylane Reservoir is a pristine reservoir situated on open moorland near Ballyboley Forest. It's a real hidden treasure, perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic on the lush green banks.
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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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A long climb followed by a nice fast descent. The summit of the climb on a clear day has views for miles across to Slemish Mountain and beyond.
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The area around Halftown is rich in history. You can explore the 400-year-old Antrim Castle Gardens, which feature magnificent settings like the Large Parterre and Clotworthy House. Another significant historical site is the Antrim Round Tower, an impressive 10th-century monastic bell tower known locally as The Steeple.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Antrim Castle Gardens offers plenty of space to explore and learn about history. The Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim provides scenic walking paths along Ireland's largest lake, and Killylane Reservoir is a peaceful spot for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
For natural beauty, visit the Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim, which offers gorgeous vantage points of Ireland's largest lake. You can also find extensive vistas from the View of Slemish Mountain from Colin Road, where on a clear day, views extend for miles across to Slemish Mountain and beyond.
The area offers various outdoor activities, particularly cycling and running. You can find numerous routes for road cycling, touring cycling, and jogging. For example, there are easy cycling loops like the 'Antrim Castle Gardens – Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim loop' and running trails such as the 'Tardree Forest loop'. You can explore more options in the dedicated guides for Road Cycling Routes, Cycling, and Running Trails around Halftown.
Yes, there are several easy options. For running, the 'Tardree Forest loop from Tardree Mountain' is an easy 3.1 km route. For cycling, the 'Antrim Castle Gardens – Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim loop' is an easy 13.7 km route. You can find more easy routes in the Running Trails and Cycling around Halftown guides.
Killylane Reservoir is often described as a real hidden treasure. Situated on open moorland near Ballyboley Forest, it's a pristine reservoir perfect for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic on its lush green banks.
Visitors particularly appreciate the historical depth of places like Antrim Castle Gardens, noting its unique 400-year-old features and the opportunity to learn about local heritage. The scenic beauty of the Lough Neagh Shore and the expansive views from the View of Slemish Mountain are also highly praised.
Yes, many of the routes available are designed as loops. For example, you can find cycling loops like the 'Antrim Castle Gardens – Antrim Castle Ruins loop' and running loops such as the 'Tardree Forest loop'. These are great for starting and ending at the same point. Check the Road Cycling, Touring Cycling, and Running Trails guides for detailed loop options.
While specific seasonal recommendations aren't provided for every attraction, generally, the spring and summer months (April to September) offer the most pleasant weather for exploring outdoor sites like Antrim Castle Gardens and enjoying the scenic views along Lough Neagh Shore. Clear days are best for mountain views.
Yes, for those seeking more challenge, the View of Slemish Mountain from Colin Road involves a long climb before a descent, offering rewarding views. In terms of routes, there are 'difficult' rated cycling options, such as the 'Glenarm Castle – Carnlough Harbour loop' for touring bicycles, and 'difficult' running trails like the 'Running loop from Burnside'.
Walks and runs vary in length. For example, an easy running loop like the 'Tardree Forest loop from Tardree Mountain' is about 3.1 km. Moderate running routes can be around 6.5 km or 11 km, while more difficult ones can extend to nearly 17 km. Cycling routes range from easy 13 km loops to difficult routes over 90 km, offering options for all fitness levels.


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