Overview
The Glens of Antrim (Irish: Glinnte Aontroma) are a striking series of nine glacial valleys that fan out from the Antrim Plateau to the rugged north-eastern coast. Designated as part of the Antrim Coast and Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the region packs waterfalls, sandy bays, medieval ruins, and award-winning gardens into a compact coastal corridor. The valleys stretch between the port of Larne and the seaside town of Ballycastle, with charming villages like Cushendun, Cushendall, Waterfoot, Carnlough, and Glenarm dotting the landscape.
Whether you prefer hiking forest trails, tracing ancient clan routes, or simply stopping at a harbour café for a coffee, the glens offer a varied introduction to Northern Ireland’s natural and cultural heritage.
History, Myth & Landscape
Long before they became a favoured visitor destination, the glens served as vital strategic corridors. From the 13th century, the Anglo-Norman Bissett family held the Lordship of the Glens, eventually passing control to the MacDonnells of Antrim in the late 1300s. The MacDonnells, originally Lords of the Isles, used the narrow valleys as defensive strongholds and trade routes. The terrain proved decisive at the Battle of Orra in 1583, when Sorley Boy McDonnell used the boggy, confined landscape of Glendun to ambush English and O’Neill forces.
Beneath the history lies a landscape carved by ice and fire. During the last Ice Age, massive glaciers scoured the Antrim Plateau, leaving deep U-shaped troughs. The underlying basaltic lava flows – the same volcanic rock that forms the Giant’s Causeway – give the higher ground its dark, rugged character. Thin glacial deposits and limestone cliffs, particularly in Glencloy, reveal a complex geological history.
The valleys are also steeped in Irish mythology. Local legend ties the area to the warrior-king Fionn mac Cumhaill and his son Oisín. In Glenaan, the Neolithic court cairn known as Oisín’s Grave stands as a tangible link to these ancient tales, while standing stones and raths scattered across the glens hint at millennia of human presence.
Exploring the Nine Glens
Each valley has its own distinct character and name origin:
- Glenarm (“Valley of the Army”): Home to the historic village and Glenarm Castle, whose gardens have won multiple national awards. The riverside walk and nearby Templeoughter ruins make it a relaxed starting point.
- Glencloy (“Valley of the Sword”): Known for limestone cliffs, the old mineral railway, and the striking Cranny Falls. The harbour at Carnlough offers a good base for coastal walks.
- Glenariff (“Queen of the Glens”): A classic U-shaped valley containing the extensive Glenariff Forest Park. The famous Mare’s Tail waterfall and well-maintained walking loops draw visitors year-round.
- Glencorp: The main corridor for the Causeway Coastal Road, offering sweeping views of the Trostan and Lurig mountains and easy access to Cushendall Bay.
- Glenballyeamon: Features a series of dramatic waterfalls that swell after rain, plus the atmospheric ruins of Retreat Station.
- Glenaan: A quieter, private-access valley known for Oisín’s Grave and vibrant summer wildflower displays.
- Glendun (“Valley of the River Dun”): Dominated by the iconic three-arch Glendun Viaduct, built in 1839 as part of William Bald’s Antrim Coast Road.
- Glenshesk (“Valley of the Rushes”): Steep slopes lead to the 15th-century Friary of Bonamargie and offer clear views across to Rathlin Island.
- Glentaisie: Named after the legendary daughter Taisie, this glen features motte forts, standing stones, and remnants of a narrow-gauge railway.
What to See & Do
- Walk the Moyle Way: A challenging 26-mile trek that threads through five of the nine glens over two days. It’s ideal for experienced hikers seeking rugged mountain scenery and quiet forest trails.
- Glenariff Forest Park Walks: Choose between the 3 km waterfall loop featuring the Mare’s Tail cascade, or the shorter 1 km viewpoint trail that winds through ornamental plantings. Both are well signposted.
- Glendun Viaduct: A photographer’s favourite. The stone bridge sits perfectly framed by the surrounding hills and is easily accessible from the main coastal road.
- Day trip to Rathlin Island: Just off the coast, Rathlin hosts Ireland’s largest seabird colony. Regular ferries depart from Ballycastle harbour.
- Glenarm Castle & Gardens: Book a guided tour to explore the historic house, walled garden, and seasonal flower displays. The May tulip festival is particularly popular.
- Village life: Spend an afternoon in Cushendall or Waterfoot, where community festivals, craft stalls, and traditional music sessions keep the local culture alive.
Wildlife & Birdwatching
The coastal cliffs and offshore islands provide crucial nesting grounds for puffins, razorbills, guillemots, and kittiwakes. Spring and early summer are the best times to spot them, especially from the shores of Glenshesk or on a trip to Rathlin Island. Inland, the mixed oak and ash woodlands of Glenariff support red squirrels, badgers, and a variety of songbirds. Late spring brings a reliable bloom of red fuchsia, lupins, and bluebells, which attract pollinators and add vivid colour to the valley floors.
Food & Drink
The glens have a growing reputation for local produce and craft beverages:
- Glens of Antrim Crisps: Handcrafted potato crisps using heritage recipes and flavours inspired by the local landscape. Available at village shops and farm gates.
- Craft distilling: A small-batch whiskey distillery is planned for Cushendall, aiming to celebrate the region’s mythic heritage through future tours and tastings.
- Village eateries: Fresh seafood is a staple in Carnlough, while Glenarm offers traditional pub fare. The Mary McBride Bar in Cushendun remains a local institution for a quiet pint and conversation.
Events & Festivals
- Tulip Festival: Glenarm Castle Gardens, May
- Heart of the Glens Festival: Cushendall village green, August
- Summer Music Sessions: Various village pubs across Cushendun and Waterfoot, June–August
- Rathlin Island Seabird Festival: Rathlin Island, late May to early June
Practical Information
Getting There
- By car: The A2 Causeway Coastal Route links Larne to Ballycastle in roughly 90 minutes. The road is two lanes with narrow sections in Glenshesk and Glendun, so allow extra time for photo stops and passing slower traffic.
- Public transport: Ulsterbus routes 212 and 213 run from Belfast to Ballycastle, with onward services to Glenarm, Cushendall, Carnlough, and Waterfoot. Belfast Lanyon Place is the nearest rail station.
- Air travel: Belfast International Airport is approximately 45 km away. A rental car or shuttle is the most straightforward way to reach the glens.
Parking & Facilities
Free car parks are available in the main village centres and at most trailheads. Glenariff Forest Park charges a small seasonal fee during peak summer months. Tea rooms and cafés operate in Waterfoot, Glenarm, Carnlough, and Ballycastle. Accommodation ranges from boutique B&Bs to self-catering cottages, with most options concentrated in the coastal villages. Village streets and visitor centres are generally wheelchair accessible, though most glen trails involve uneven, natural terrain.
Seasonal Tips
- Waterfalls at Glenariff and Glenballyeamon are most powerful after heavy winter and early spring rain.
- Wildflower displays peak in late spring and early summer, particularly in Glenaan and along the Glenariff forest loops.
- Summer brings the busiest visitor numbers, so booking accommodation and castle tours in advance is recommended.
Plan your itinerary around the coastal road, but leave room to pull off into the smaller valleys. The glens reward those willing to step away from the main route and explore the quieter footpaths, ancient cairns, and harbour villages at their own pace.