Carnfunnock Country Park

Places to See | Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland.



There are many wonderful attractions along the breath-taking Antrim Coast Road.

The 191 hectare Carnfunnock Country Park is one and has combined man-made attractions and entertainment with the splendour of its natural scenery in a way which is quite special.

The Park was originally part of the estate of Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon and was purchased in 1957 by Larne Borough Council (now owned by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council). Many of the original features remain, including the walled garden, the ice house and the lime kilns.

A network of paths allows you to explore the park and enjoy its sights and sounds. Five way-marked walking trails, of varying length, offer tours of the park’s main features. All trails are colour-coded and follow a circular route, starting and finishing at the visitor centre.

Outdoor Adventure Playground – A range of challenging and exciting equipment for toddlers to 12 year olds, many of which are also suitable for children with special needs.

Activity Centre – Test your putting skills on our 9 hole putting green. Play outdoor games including giant chess or draughts and giant connect 4 and table tennis.  Based at the Activity Centre, Facetastic offers Face painting and temporary tattoos for young and old alike! There is also a Covered BBQ area available for hire by groups and private parties.

Walled Garden – For peace and tranquillity visit the beautiful Walled Garden with its distinctive sundials and unique wooden sculptures. The Walled Garden at Carnfunnock Country Park contains several gardens within it and is open all year round.

The Beech Wood located within the Wildlife Garden was also originally part of Lady Dixon’s cherished gardens – full of wild garlic in Spring and a great venue for bug hunts.

Carnfunnock also has a comprehensive and varied annual programme of events which includes summer band concerts, falconry, bushcraft, archery, art activities, and educational events giving you the chance to see the parks wildlife up close.

The park also contains a 5 star touring caravan park and campsite, perfect for visitors from the UK, Ireland and overseas to explore Northern Ireland.  If you’re not up for camping you’ll find some great self-catering accommodation close by.

Opening Times:
The Country Park is open daily:  Spring / Summer 9.00am – dusk (9.00pm July – August) and Autumn / Winter 9.00am – 4.30pm (Closed Christmas Day). Certain Park activities are seasonal and weather permitting. If the weather is bad, we recommend telephoning before your journey to avoid disappointment.


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Antrim is the county town of County Antrim in Northern Ireland. Antrim is a small town not frequently visited by tourists, yet it is one of the more historic towns in Northern Ireland with many interesting sights and buildings of historic note.

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