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The community lies near the center of Northern Ireland, on the shores of the Six Mile Waters. Aodh, a disciple of St. Patrick, constructed an abbey here in 495 AD. About 150 years later, a round tower joined the structure. When the Danish Vikings attacked Antrim, they destroyed the abbey. Antrim remained a small farming community for hundreds of years.
The O’Neill family were one of the prominent ruling influences in the county. In 1335, they constructed Shane’s Castle nearby. A church developed in 1595 and Antrim held weekly markets from 1605 on. Like many Irish towns, Antrim experienced attack and battle many times. In 1649, General Monroe invaded and burned the town’s buildings.
Sir John Clotworthy received the land by order of the crown. He constructed a castle in the mid 1600s, which passed to the Viscounts Massereene and Ferrard. In 1642, the English again attacked the community and the Viscounts used naval vessels to defeat the enemy. Another skirmish claimed the life of an O’Neill family member in 1662 and the bullet holes are reportedly still visible in the church.
By 1776, Atrim experienced industrial prosperity having a brewery, flourmills and malt kilns, besides farming and linen making. The waterways supplied power to the mills. In 1798, conflict arose again when 4,000 United Irishmen attacked the town. The local residents and British reinforcements fought back and 900 United Irishmen died in Antrim.
Activities and Attractions
Antrim has numerous scenic paved paths and trails for biking and walking. One popular destination includes a walk through the woods to the site of Antrim Castle and Gardens. In the spring, fields bloom with Daffodils and Bluebells. Journey through ancient arches and down terraced steps where a tunnel passageway once led to the river’s edge. Pumps delivered water to holding tanks in the fortress. Along the path, a stone bridge crosses the river, built by the Viscount, as a shortcut to his hunting lodge. All that remains of the main castle is a tower and partial walls. Nearby, an ancient graveyard bears markers with Celtic crosses.
The canal passes this location and has paved paths on either side. The ponds and river are not only a pleasant destination for watching the local wildlife, but serve as popular fishing areas. The location also features the Clotworthy Arts Centre, which regularly hosts exhibitions and live entertainment.
Outside of Antrim lie the ruins of Shane’s Castle, which belonged to the O’Neill family. The statue of a female stands by an ancient graveyard and legend has it if the statue falls, so will the O’Neill lineage. Other legends attached to the site include that of a daughter taken by the “wee folk” and transformed into a Banshee.
The World of Owls lies close to this location and the facility features owls from around the world. The site also offers flight demonstrations performed by falcons and hawks. Small, friendly animals allow young guests the opportunity for hands on interaction.
Along the shore of the Lough Neagh, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the British Isles, visitors come upon the Cranfield Church and Holy well. The Irish church originated in the 1200s and beside the structure is a mysterious well bearing amber coloured crystals. For centuries, individuals travelled to the destination where many believed the crystals and water held healing powers and provided protection.
Places to Stay and Dining
Guests may reserve a room in Antrim at well-known chain hotels located next to the International Shopping Outlet. The convenient area is also only five minutes from Belfast Airport. Many facilities offer complimentary traditional cooked Irish breakfasts.
The China Court restaurant is an economical place to grab a delicious Cantonese lunch. Main dish menu selections include lemon chicken, sweet and sour chicken, or curry beef.
Accommodation in Antrim
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