The National Trust in Northern Ireland cares for over 50 properties.  In 1951, the first piece of land was an area of woodland and meadows called Minnowburn on the edge of Belfast.  The first historic house was Ardress House, Annaghmore, by Portadown, in 1959.  Click here for the National Trust MAP.

You may be familiar with two NT places: the Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede, found on the North Coast, along with several other NT sites, including Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne, and a few sandy beaches.

The Giant’s Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with scenic walks on the north coast.  This is where you can find hexangular basalt columns, and if you are lucky, hear the rumblings of giants.  If travelling from the walled city of Derry, the travelling time is between 1 ½ hours and 2 hours, depending on the traffic and whether you take the scenic route.  The causeway is free to walk on, but be aware that entrance to the visitor centre is charged.

The Carric-a-rede rope bridge is suspended 98 feet above the Atlantic Ocean and crosses 66 feet to connect the mainland to a tiny island.   The path to the rope bridge is about 1km long.  Wheelchair users can travel the first 0.5 km to a viewing area only.  The remainder of the path has stairs, rough areas, and steep slopes as it winds around the cliff area.  Look out for the puffins.  Carric-a-rede is a further 20 minutes’ drive.

It is always worth checking if an NT site is open before you travel.  Some places close for bank holidays.  Check their website before you start your journey.  Due to the crowds, it may be worth pre-booking tickets and going early.

Something else to consider is the National Trust Explorer Pass.  If you plan to visit several National Trust sites, the NT offers a 4-day, 8-day, and 14-day pass.  The pass can also be used at the National Trust sites in England and Wales while travelling there.

Note that the stunning remains of Dunluce Castle (16th C) found in that area belong to the NI Government, not the National Trust; therefore, NT cards are not accepted.