Things to do in Kilrea

Activities, attractions and tours

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Top places to visit

1. Old Bushmills Distillery

One of the few historic operating distilleries to offer tours, the Old Bushmills Distillery is a must-do for whiskey lovers. Even if you don’t like the strong alcoholic drink, it’s interesting to see the making of the malt concoction that Ireland is so famous for at one of Northern Island’s best-known producers.
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Old Bushmills Distillery which includes interior views

2. Dunluce Castle

The ancient Dunluce Castle was once a symbol of power, built at the edge of a basalt cliff overlooking the Irish Sea. During a storm in 1639, part of the castle fell into the sea and the building was abandoned. Today, the ruins on the edge of the cliffs are a dramatic sight. Dunluce Castle is a popular destination for photographers and those with an interest in history, nature and hiking.
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Dunluce Castle showing a ruin, château or palace and rocky coastline

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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The Dark Hedges featuring a park

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 featuring a coastal town, a sandy beach and general coastal views

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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Glenariff Forest Park which includes a river or creek and forest scenes

What to do in Kilrea

Popular places to visit

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

Mussenden Temple

This small stone temple is a great picnic location and one of the best spots on the coast for bird-watching.

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 visit 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.

Bishops Gate

Causeway Speciality Market

You can learn about the history of Coleraine with a stop at Causeway Speciality Market. Stroll along the seaside in this quaint area or visit 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 take a trip to Downhill Palace. Amble around this relaxing area's seaside and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Downhill Palace

Damhead Miniature Railway

Have a fun-filled day with the family at Damhead Miniature Railway as part of your trip to Coleraine. Stroll along the riverfront or discover the area's countryside.

Damhead Miniature Railway

Hezlett House

Find out about the history of Castlerock when you spend time at Hezlett House. Stroll along the seaside in this relaxing area or visit its top-notch restaurants.

Hezlett House

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
Glenarm featuring a coastal town and general coastal views

Ballymena

Mussenden Temple which includes general coastal views

Coleraine

The Dark Hedges. Ballymoney Countryside. Antrim County, Northern Ireland, Europe

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 flavours, 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 holiday here. There are lots of free things to do in Kilrea for the budget-conscious traveller. Roam the parks, soak up the vibes at free events and festivals or ask for ideas from a local tour guide.