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.
Geological formation
The valleys were carved during the last Ice Age when massive glaciers scoured the Antrim Plateau, leaving deep U‑shaped troughs. Underlying basaltic lava flows, the same rock that forms the Giant’s Causeway, give the higher ground its dark, rugged character. Thin glacial deposits on the uplands and the limestone cliffs of Glencloy are evidence of the complex interplay between volcanic activity and glacial erosion.
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).
- Cushendall’s Heart of the Glens Festival – held each August, this community‑run event showcases traditional music, craft stalls and local food.
Wildlife & Birdwatching
The coastal cliffs and islands surrounding the glens provide important nesting sites for seabirds such as puffins, razorbills, guillemots and kittiwakes. Rathlin Island, visible from Glenshesk, supports the largest colony of seabirds in Ireland and is reachable by a short ferry ride from Ballycastle. Inland, the mixed oak‑ash woodlands of Glenariff Forest Park are home to red squirrels, badgers and a variety of songbirds. Spring brings a burst of colour from wildflowers – red fuchsia, lupins and bluebells – attracting butterflies and bees.
Food & Drink
- Glens of Antrim Crisps – a locally‑produced potato crisp brand that uses heritage recipes and flavours inspired by the landscape. Packs are sold in village shops and farm‑gates throughout the glens.
- Glens of Antrim Distillery (in development) – the McKillop family plan to open a small‑batch whiskey distillery in Cushendall by 2024, promising future tours and tastings that will celebrate the glens’ mythic heritage.
- Local eateries – try fresh seafood in Carnlough, traditional Irish stew in Glenarm, and the famous Mary McBride Bar in Cushendun for a pint and a slice of local history.
Events & Festivals
| Event | Location | Time of Year |
|---|---|---|
| Tulip Festival | Glenarm Castle Gardens | May |
| Heart of the Glens Festival | Cushendall (village green) | August |
| Summer Music Sessions | Various village pubs (Cushendun, Waterfoot) | June‑August |
| Rathlin Island Seabird Festival | Rathlin Island (ferry from Ballycastle) | Late May‑Early June |
Practical Information
Getting There
- By car: The A2 Causeway Coastal Route links Larne to Ballycastle in about 1½ hours. The road is two‑lane with narrow sections in Glenshesk and Glendun – allow extra time for photo stops.
- Public transport: Ulsterbus routes 212 and 213 run from Belfast to Ballycastle, with onward services to Glenarm, Cushendall, Carnlough and Waterfoot. The nearest railway station is Belfast Lanyon Place; from there, take a bus to the glens.
- Airports: Belfast International Airport (BFS) is ~45 km north‑west; a shuttle or rental car provides the easiest access.
Parking
Free car parks are available at the main village centres (Ballycastle, Glenarm, Waterfoot) and at most forest‑park trailheads such as Glenariff (small fee in summer months). The Glenariff Forest Park car park has 120 spaces and a short‑stay charge of €2‑€3 during peak season.
Visitor Facilities
- 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: Village streets and visitor centres are wheelchair‑friendly. Paved sections of the Glenariff Forest Park loops are suitable for limited mobility, but most glen trails involve uneven, boggy terrain.
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 the Heart of the Glens festival in Cushendall (August) 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, a wildlife enthusiast or a walker seeking solitude, the nine glens promise an unforgettable slice of Irish wilderness and legend.