Glenarm, County Antrim: The Castle, Walled Garden & Things to Do

Glenarm is a small village on the Antrim coast, where the Glenarm River runs out of the first of the Glens of Antrim into the sea. Georgian houses line its streets, and behind a castellated gate stands Glenarm Castle, home of the McDonnell family, Earls of Antrim.

Why Glenarm Is Special

Glenarm is one of the oldest settlements on the Antrim coast and one of the prettiest, a quiet village of colour-washed houses, a harbour and a river, framed by wooded hills.

Its castle's walled garden, one of the oldest in Ireland, is a joy for gardeners.

The History of Glenarm

A castle at Glenarm is first recorded in 1270, when it was let to the Bisset family by the Bishop of Down and Connor.

The present Glenarm Castle has been the seat of the McDonnells, Earls of Antrim, for centuries, and the family still lives there. The Barbican gate on the village street leads into its grounds.

The castle's walled garden has been restored and is open to visitors in season, along with a tea room in the old mushroom house.

Things to Do in Glenarm

Visit Glenarm Castle Walled Garden (check opening times), then walk through the village and along the river. Follow the forest walks up the glen.

Drive the Causeway Coastal Route north to Carnlough and on towards Glenariff; see our guide to Carnlough.

Gardens, Countryside & Antiques near Glenarm

See the Glenarm Castle Walled Garden listing. The coast and glens are part of the Antrim Coast and Glens AONB; see our guide to the Glens of Antrim.

In Larne, a few miles south, the Naggy Burn garden centre is worth a visit, and Cushendun is further north; see Cushendun.

Glenarm Through the Seasons

Spring brings tulips to the walled garden. Summer is the season for garden visits and coast drives. Autumn colours the forest, and winter brings quiet, misty days in the glen.

Getting to Glenarm

The nearest railway station is Larne, about twelve miles south, with buses along the coast.

Glenarm: Questions & Answers

Can you visit Glenarm Castle?

The castle is a private home, but its walled garden and tea room are open to visitors in season.

Who lives at Glenarm Castle?

The McDonnell family, Earls of Antrim.

Our Advice

Our advice: Visit the walled garden for lunch in season, then drive the coast road north for the views.