Overview
The Glens of Antrim (Irish: Glinnte Aontroma), often simply called The Glens, are a series of nine glacial valleys that radiate from the Antrim Plateau to the rugged north‑eastern coast of Ireland. Designated as part of the Antrim Coast and Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the region covers roughly 20 sq mi of forest‑clad hills, sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs and lush river valleys. The glens lie between the coastal towns of Larne and Ballycastle, and the main settlements that punctuate the landscape are Ballycastle, Cushendun, Cushendall, Waterfoot, Carnlough and Glenarm.
The area is famed for its wildflower‑strewn fields, cascading waterfalls, and a tapestry of myths that link the valleys to legendary figures such as the giant Fionn mac Cumhaill and his son Oisín. Whether you’re driving the Causeway Coastal Route, hiking a forest trail, or simply pausing at a seaside village, the Glens offer a compact yet varied showcase of Northern Ireland’s natural and cultural heritage.
History & Background
From the mid‑13th century the Lordship of the Glens was held by the Anglo‑Norman Bissett family, who gradually became Gaelicised. In the late 14th century the lordship passed to the MacDonnells of Antrim through the marriage of John Mor Macdonald to Margery Bisset. The MacDonnells, originally Lords of the Isles, cemented their influence over the glens for centuries, using the valleys as strategic routes and bases during the turbulent clan wars of the 1500s. Notable historic events include the Battle of Orra (1583), where Sorley Boy McDonnell used the narrow, bog‑filled terrain of Glendun to ambush the forces of the O’Neills and English soldiers.
Archaeological finds – from Neolithic artefacts at Bay Farm II to the court cairn known as Oisín’s Grave in Glenaan – attest to human occupation dating back over 5,000 years. The glens also host a wealth of medieval sites: the 15th‑century Friary of Bonamargie in Glenshesk, the ruins of Templeoughter near Glenarm, and numerous raths, standing stones and old mining railways that whisper of a once‑thriving mineral industry.
What to See & Do
| Glen | Highlights | Notable Attractions |
|---|---|---|
| Glenarm | ”Valley of the Army” – historic village, castle estate | Glenarm Castle & Gardens (Historic Houses 2023 Garden of the Year), riverside walk, ancient church of Templeoughter |
| Glencloy | ”Valley of the Sword” – limestone cliffs, mining heritage | Cranny Falls, Doonan Leap viewpoint, old mineral railway, limestone harbour at Carnlough |
| Glenariff | ”Queen of the Glens” – classic U‑shaped glacial valley | Glenariff Forest Park (1,000+ acres), Mare’s Tail waterfall, historic Glenariff Mineral Railway remnants |
| Glencorp | Main route of the Causeway Coastal Road runs through it | Rolling farmlands, views of Trostan and Lurig mountains, access to Cushendall Bay |
| Glenballyeamon | Spectacular waterfalls, derelict railway station at Retreat | Retreat Station, series of cascades after rain, panoramic mountain vistas |
| Glenaan | Mythic burial site of Oisín | Oisín’s Grave (Neolithic court cairn), colourful summer blooms, private farm lane access |
| Glendun | ”Valley of the River Dun” – iconic viaduct | Glendun Viaduct (three‑arch stone bridge, 1839), historic battle sites, scenic drive to Cushendun |
| Glenshesk | ”Valley of the Rushes” – steep slopes, seabird views | Friary of Bonamargie, views of Rathlin Island, standing stones and ancient church ruins |
| Glentaisie | Named after the fair daughter Taisie | Motte forts, standing stones, remnants of the narrow‑gauge railway, Fort mound |
Signature Experiences
- Moyle Way – a challenging 26‑mile (two‑day) trek that threads through five of the nine glens, offering waterfalls, wildlife and rugged mountain scenery.
- Glenariff Forest Park Walks – choose from the 3 km waterfall loop (Eas na Lárach – Mare’s Tail) or the shorter 1 km viewpoint trail that winds through ornamental gardens.
- Glendun Viaduct – pause at the three‑arch bridge for classic photography; the structure was built as part of William Bald’s Antrim Coast Road in the 1830s.
- Rathlin Island Day‑Trip – although not a glen, the island lies just off the coast and hosts Ireland’s largest seabird colony; ferries depart from Ballycastle.
- Glenarm Castle Guided Tour – explore the historic rooms, walled garden and seasonal tulip festival (May).
Practical Information
The Glens are most easily accessed via the Causeway Coastal Route (A2), which runs along the coast between Larne and Ballycastle. From Belfast, the drive takes about 1½ hours; public‑transport options include regular bus services to Ballycastle and onward connections to the villages of Cushendall, Carnlough and Glenarm.
Getting Around
- By Car: A two‑lane coastal road links the glens; many of the smaller glens (e.g., Glenshesk, Glendun) have narrow, winding sections, so drive cautiously and allow extra time for photo stops.
- Walking & Hiking: Trailheads are generally free to access. Most forest parks (Glenariff, Glenariff) provide marked way‑marked routes, information boards and modest parking facilities.
- Guided Walks: Glenarm Tourism runs guided walks on the third Sunday of each month (registration at the Glenarm Visitor Centre). The Moyle Way is self‑guided but detailed maps are available from the Causeway Coast & Glens council.
Visitor Facilities
- Parking: Free car parks are available at the main village centres (Ballycastle, Glenarm, Waterfoot) and at most forest‑park trailheads.
- Refreshments: Tea houses and cafés can be found in Waterfoot (Glenariff), Glenarm village, and the coastal towns of Carnlough and Ballycastle.
- Accommodation: Options range from boutique B&Bs (e.g., Glenaan Cottage) to self‑catering cottages and hotels in Ballycastle and Glenarm.
- Accessibility: While many of the glens feature uneven terrain, the main village streets and visitor centres are wheelchair‑friendly. Some forest‑park walks have paved sections suitable for limited mobility, but steep, boggy sections of the Moyle Way are best tackled by experienced hikers.
Seasonal Notes
- Waterfalls are most impressive after heavy rain; the Glenariff and Glenballyeamon cascades swell dramatically in winter and early spring.
- Floral displays (red fuchsia, lupins) peak in late spring and early summer, especially in Glenaan and Glenariff.
- Festivals: Glenarm Castle’s tulip festival (May) and local music sessions in village pubs add cultural flavour during the summer months.
For up‑to‑date information on trail conditions, parking fees (where applicable) and any special events, visit the official Discover Ireland page linked above.
The Glens of Antrim offer a compact yet richly layered adventure: from ancient stone cairns and medieval castles to forested waterfalls and sweeping coastal vistas. Whether you’re a history buff, a keen photographer, or a walker seeking solitude, the nine glens promise an unforgettable slice of Irish wilderness and legend.