Best attractions and places to see around Dunadry include a blend of historical sites, natural features, and tranquil settings in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. The area offers cultural landmarks and scenic landscapes, with the Dunadry Hotel and Gardens serving as a central point of interest. Visitors can explore ancient sites, landscaped estates, and river walks.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
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The Round Tower is an impressive reminder of Antrim's ancient monastic settlement. Built around the 10th century as the monastery's bell tower, it is known locally as The Steeple. It stands 28 meters tall. The monastic site was burned down in 1147.
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The Protector of the Lough statue shows the mythological giant Finn McCool standing guard at Antrim Marina on the shores of Lough Neagh. It's an eight-metre-tall sculpture created by Spanish artist Casto Solan to celebrate the local folklore of the Lough.
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The Round Tower is an impressive reminder of Antrim’s ancient monastic settlement. It was built around the 10th century as a bell-tower as part of the Early Christain monastery and is known locally as The Steeple. It is 28 metres tall and is one of the finest of its kind in Ireland. The monastic site was burned in 1147.
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Antrim Castle Gardens are an absolute historical gem. You will find nothing like these 400 year old gardens anywhere else in Northern Ireland. Walk into the past as you stroll around this magnificent setting, visiting beautiful features such as the Large Parterre, Her Ladyship’s Pleasure Garden and Yew Tree Pond. Within the heart of the Gardens is a unique visitor experience, the refurbished Clotworthy House. Visit the Garden Heritage Exhibition where you can read about the history of the Gardens and the story of the Massereene family. It provides a fantastic opportunity to come and learn about garden history how the lives of the key family members intertwine with the development of Antrim town and the surrounding areas.
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Scenic section of walking along the shore of Lough Neagh from Antrim. The lough holds the title of the largest lake in Ireland and this footpath gifts you with some gorgeous vantage points to enjoy it from.
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Castle gardens including various buildings and ruins on the river. Plenty to look at and explore in the gardens.
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Dunadry itself has a rich history, with the Dunadry Hotel and Gardens built on an ancient fort and featuring a notable Rotunda and fireplace. Historically, the townland also contained the site of an ancient church and graveyard. Nearby, you can visit the magnificent Antrim Castle Gardens, a 400-year-old historical site, and the impressive Antrim Round Tower, a 10th-century monastic settlement known locally as "The Steeple".
The Six Mile River meanders through the landscaped gardens of the Dunadry Hotel, offering picturesque strolls along the century-old Millrace. The hotel estate also features beautiful internal gardens, including the secluded Secret Garden with a waterfall. For expansive views, head to Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim, where you'll find scenic walking paths along Ireland's largest lake.
Yes, there are various walking opportunities. You can find easy hikes like the Loughshore Trail - Antrim Loop or routes within Antrim Castle Gardens. For more moderate options, consider the routes listed in the Hiking around Dunadry guide, which includes trails around Lough Neagh Shore and Antrim Castle Gardens.
Absolutely. Many attractions are suitable for families. Antrim Castle Gardens offers plenty to explore for all ages with its historical features and open spaces. The Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim provides scenic paths for family walks, and the Antrim Round Tower is an impressive historical landmark that can spark curiosity.
Located within the Central Garden of the Dunadry Hotel Estate, the Tree of Peace and Unity is an iconic landmark consisting of two lime trees that have grown together over centuries. It gained fame as a powerful symbol of unity during the signing of the Good Friday Agreement, featuring in an iconic picture with key political figures.
Yes, the impressive eight-meter-tall statue, The Protector of the Lough, located at Antrim Marina on the shores of Lough Neagh, is wheelchair accessible. This statue celebrates the mythological giant Finn McCool and local folklore.
The Dunadry Hotel Estate itself boasts several beautiful gardens, including expansive lawns, the secluded Secret Garden with a waterfall, and the exclusive Spa Garden. Just a short distance away, the magnificent Antrim Castle Gardens offers 400-year-old historical gardens with features like the Large Parterre and Yew Tree Pond.
Beyond exploring the attractions, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. There are numerous routes for running, easy hikes, and more challenging hiking around the Dunadry area, particularly along the Lough Neagh Shore and within Antrim Castle Gardens.
Visitors particularly appreciate the historical depth of sites like Antrim Castle Gardens, often described as an 'absolute historical gem' for its 400-year-old features. The scenic beauty of Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim is also highly valued for its 'gorgeous vantage points' and tranquil walking paths.
While not explicitly detailed, the natural settings around Dunadry, such as the Six Mile River and the expansive Lough Neagh Shore, provide potential opportunities for observing local wildlife, particularly birds and aquatic species in their natural habitats.
The spring and summer months generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities and exploring the gardens and natural features around Dunadry. The landscaped gardens, including those at the Dunadry Hotel and Antrim Castle Gardens, are particularly vibrant during these seasons.
The Dunadry Hotel itself offers dining options. Given Dunadry's proximity to Antrim, you will find various cafes, pubs, and restaurants in Antrim town, which are convenient for visitors exploring attractions like Antrim Castle Gardens and the Lough Neagh Shore.


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