Private Kings and Queens Tour of County Antrim

Belfast , United Kingdom

Private Kings and Queens Tour of County Antrim

Active

8h - 10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Go 'on tour' with George for a journey that spans centuries, to visit some of Northern Ireland's most prominent castles and stately homes in the County Antrim region. From Belfast Castle to Carrickfergus, Ballygally to Dunluce, and so much more, this Kings & Queens Tour offers a day of adventure and history with a chance to see some of Northern Ireland's finest sights as we travel from Belfast City to the stunning Antrim Coast!

I'm George Clarke, a Northern Irish local who loves to show off the beauty of this country. With private tours including popular sites and hidden gems, I aim to make your trip to Northern Ireland one you will remember for all the right reasons. Let's have a fun visit to Northern Ireland's treasures full of history, fun facts and of course laughter.

Available options

Private Kings and Queens Tour of County Antrim

Pickup included

Tour for 4-7 People

Van (for Tours of 4-7 People)<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Lunch will vary depending on the location at the time and traffic at the restaurant (Main Course and Beverage is included in the Tour price).

Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Offering stunning views over the city and Belfast Lough, Belfast Castle was built in 1862 by the third Marquis of Donegal within his deer park – which is now North Belfast. (30 Mins – Visitor centre, grounds visit & photo opportunity)

Stop 2

For more than 800 years, Carrick Castle has stood as one of the finest preserved Norman castles, housed on the shoreline of Belfast Lough. The majority of the castle is accessible for visitors and should not be missed. (1 Hour – Castle & grounds visit: Entry fee included in tour) (FYI - Carrickfergus Castle is closed on Mondays, however photo opportunities will still be possible of the exterior.)

Built in 1625, Ballygally Castle has the reputation as one of Ireland's most haunted castles. Now a hotel, the stunning castle sits on the bay of Ballygally overlooking the Irish Sea. (20 Mins – Castle visit & photo opportunity)

Built in 1636 by the first Earl of Antrim, Glenarm Castle is still lived in today and offers much to see from it's stately home to stable yard museum, walled gardens to shops and more. As interior tours are very limited, this will be an exterior visit only. (60 mins – Gardens & photo opportunity) (Entry fee to Castle Gardens included in the cost of the tour)

Stop 5

Clinging to the cliff-side of the North Antrim Coast is the tragically beautiful ruins of Dunluce Castle. Built around the 15th century, the castle was host to many bloody feuds, heavy storm damage and film set locations. (40 Mins – Castle & grounds visit: Entry fee included in tour)

Take some personal time to enjoy one of Northern Ireland's oldest seaside towns and local holiday spots with it's numerous coffee houses, independent shops, and amusement arcades. This will be our last stop before heading back to Belfast. (45 Mins)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Belfast

Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, is a vibrant city with a rich maritime, industrial, and political history. Known for its Titanic heritage, friendly locals, and dynamic cultural scene, it offers a unique blend of historical sites, modern attractions, and stunning natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Titanic Belfast

A world-class museum dedicated to the Titanic, offering interactive exhibits and a fascinating insight into Belfast's shipbuilding heritage.

Historical 2-3 hours £22-£26

Belfast Castle

A beautiful 19th-century castle set in the Cave Hill Country Park, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

St. George's Market

A historic market offering a variety of food, crafts, and entertainment. It's one of the few remaining Victorian markets in the UK.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free entry, food and crafts for purchase

Crumlin Road Gaol

A former Victorian prison that has been restored to its original condition, offering guided tours and insights into Belfast's criminal history.

Historical 1-2 hours £12-£15

Botanic Gardens

A beautiful public park featuring a variety of plants, trees, and flowers, as well as the Palm House and Tropical Ravine House.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ulster Fry

A hearty breakfast consisting of soda bread, potato bread, bacon, sausage, black and white pudding, eggs, and tomato.

Breakfast Contains meat and gluten

Irish Stew

A traditional stew made with lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and gluten

Chippey

A traditional fish and chip shop serving battered fish, chips, and various sides.

Dinner Contains fish and gluten

Belfast Bap

A soft, white bread roll filled with a sausage, bacon, or egg.

Breakfast/Lunch Contains meat and gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking in Cave Hill Country Park Crossing the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge Kayaking on Lough Neagh Strolling through Botanic Gardens Enjoying a spa day Sipping coffee in a trendy cafe Exploring the Ulster Museum Attending a performance at the Grand Opera House

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and sunniest time of the year, perfect for outdoor activities and festivals. However, it's also the busiest tourist season.

15°C to 20°C 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Irish (Gaelic)
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Pound Sterling (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) in winter, BST (UTC+1) in summer

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Belfast is generally safe, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis and check the fare before starting your journey.

Getting there

By air

Belfast International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) northwest of the city center
George Best Belfast City Airport • 3 km (2 miles) east of the city center

By train

Belfast Central Station, Belfast Lanyon Place Station

By bus

Belfast Europa Buscentre

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Belfast, with a comprehensive network covering the city and surrounding areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Cathedral Quarter Titanic Quarter Belfast City Centre Stranmillis The Ormeau Road

Day trips

Giant's Causeway

90 km (56 miles) • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a unique natural formation of interlocking basalt columns.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

70 km (43 miles) • Half day

A thrilling rope bridge spanning a 23-meter (75-foot) chasm, offering stunning views of the coastline.

Dunluce Castle

80 km (50 miles) • Half day

A dramatic medieval castle perched on a cliff, offering a glimpse into Northern Ireland's past.

Festivals

Belfast International Arts Festival • October Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival • May Belfast Mela • August

Pro tips

Take a black cab tour to learn about Belfast's history and political landscape from a local perspective.
Visit the Cathedral Quarter for a vibrant mix of bars, restaurants, and cultural venues.
Explore the Titanic Quarter, home to the Titanic Belfast museum and a variety of attractions.
Stroll through Botanic Gardens and visit the nearby Ulster Museum and Palm House.
Try local delicacies like the Ulster Fry and Belfast Bap at St. George's Market.