Things to do in Kilrea

Activities, attractions and tours

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Top places to visit

1. Old Bushmills Distillery

Whiskey lovers mustn’t miss out on the chance to visit the Old Bushmills Distillery, one of the few historic operating distilleries that offers tours to the public. Even if you aren’t too fond of the distinctive alcoholic malt drink that Ireland is famous for, it’s interesting to learn about its history and see how it’s made.
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Old Bushmills Distillery which includes signage

2. Dunluce Castle

Almost hanging off the edge of a cliff overlooking the Irish Sea, ancient Dunluce Castle was built as a symbol of power. Its precarious position at the edge of the cliff saw parts of the castle collapse into the sea in 1639, and the building was subsequently abandoned. Attracting walkers, history fanatics and photographers, the atmospheric ruins make for a wonderful sight and offer great photo opportunities.
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Dunluce Castle showing rocky coastline, building ruins and a castle

3. The Dark Hedges

The Stuart family, who wished to impress visitors to their home in the nearby Gracehill House, planted the beech trees here some 200 years ago. It is quite apparent from a visit here just how successful they were, as the Dark Hedges still astound visitors today.
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As if the undulating Irish countryside wasn’t magical enough, close to the town of Ballymoney you can treat yourself to a magical and mysterious moment with a visit to the Dark Hedges. This breathtaking avenue of gnarled beech trees lines the Bregagh Road close to the village of Armoy in County Antrim.

4. Portrush East Strand Beach

Portrush Beach is a shoreline that attracts vacationers from Belfast in the summer. It is split into several picturesque parts with their own distinct charms. Visit a different section of beach each day for a varied experience of dunes, sandy stretches and a tall sculpture that adorns the coastline.
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Portrush Beach showing a coastal town, general coastal views and a sandy beach

5. Glenariff Forest Park

Set in the valley of Glenariff, one of nine County Antrim glens and popularly known as the “Queen of the Glens”, the park is under half an hour’s drive from Ballymena and around an hour from Belfast. Some car parking is available for a small fee.
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If you love getting back to nature, then a visit to Glenariff Forest Park, which was formed by glaciers during the Ice Age, will not disappoint. This majestic park, covering over 1,000 hectares of mature woodland, conservation areas and shimmering lake, is immensely popular with walkers, horse-riders, caravanners and campers.

What to do in Kilrea

Popular places to visit

Mussenden Temple showing a temple or place of worship and heritage elements

Mussenden Temple

Bring a picnic and enjoy some bird-watching at this charming stone temple that sits dramatically atop a cliff.

Mussenden Temple

Castlerock Golf Course

Enjoy a round of golf in Castlerock at Castlerock Golf Course. Stroll along the seaside in this relaxing area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.

Castlerock Golf Course

Bishops Gate

Situated on the cliff top above the North Atlantic, the 18th Century mansion at Downhill would have once been a magnificent home. It still is a beautiful sight but much of the building was destroyed by fire in the 1850s and fell further into disrepair after the Second World War.

Bishops Gate

Hezlett House

Find out about the history of Castlerock with a stop at Hezlett House. Stroll along the seaside in this relaxing area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.

Hezlett House

Causeway Speciality Market

You can learn about the history of Coleraine when you stop by Causeway Speciality Market. Stroll along the seaside in this quaint area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.

Causeway Speciality Market

Moorbrook trout fishery

Enjoy an outing to Moorbrook trout fishery during your stay in Coleraine. Amble around this relaxing area's seaside and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Moorbrook trout fishery

Downhill Palace

Find out about the history of Coleraine when you spend time at Downhill Palace. Amble around this relaxing area's seaside and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Downhill Palace

Damhead Miniature Railway

Enjoy a fun-filled day at Damhead Miniature Railway during your visit to Coleraine. Stroll along the riverfront or discover the area's countryside.

Damhead Miniature Railway

GoPro Karting

You can take time to visit GoPro Karting during your travels to Coleraine. Stroll along the riverfront or discover the area's countryside.

GoPro Karting
Ballymena

Ballymena

Ballymoney

Ballymoney

Frequently asked questions

Is Kilrea worth visiting?
Kilrea offers a unique mix of culture, attractions and local charm. Whether you're into outdoor activities, history or local culinary flavors, there are many things you'll find here.
How do I spend a day in Kilrea?
Once you've visited the most popular attractions, spend some time experiencing the shopping and dining scene in Kilrea.
What is the top tourist attraction in Kilrea?
Plan your ideal getaway by taking a look at our list of low-cost adventures, family-friendly activities and other amazing things to do in Kilrea.
Is three days enough to stay in Kilrea?
Three days is enough for a quick escape to Kilrea — you'll hit the main sights and get a feel for the vibe of the place. But if you want to truly soak it all in, book for at least seven to ten days to check out some hidden gems too.
What are some activities to do in Kilrea with kids?
Planning what to do in Kilrea with kids has never been simpler. Whether you have teenagers or toddlers, there are plenty of family-friendly sights to keep them entertained here.

What to do in Kilrea for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or outdoor adventurer, there are many things to do in Kilrea for adults.
Are there free things to do in Kilrea?
You don't need to spend a fortune to have a great vacation here. There are lots of free things to do in Kilrea for the budget-conscious traveler. Roam the parks, soak up the vibes at free events and festivals or ask for ideas from a local tour guide.