City: Northern Ireland
Top Things to do in Northern Ireland
10 Ancient Ruins in Northern Ireland That You Shouldn't Miss
– in Europe (green & dark grey)
– in the United Kingdom (green)
Restaurants in Northern Ireland
1. St. Caireall's Church
2. Beaghmore Stone Circles
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 81 reviews
Reviewed By 720harryb
Stones from the "Bronze Age". Imagine, it's so long long ago (but still there). Close to Cookstown and Drum Manor Forest Park. Cookstown is a very nice town ! Have a coffee or lunch.
3. Nendrum Monastic Site
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 91 reviews
Reviewed By Lisnagole - Belfast, United Kingdom
A nice place to drive to within a short distance of Comber. There are steps and a short walk around ancient ruins with scenic views surrounding.
4. Ballylumford Dolmen
5. Dungiven Priory and O'Cahan's Tomb
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 7 reviews
Reviewed By briana226
The Peace IV Project – Folklore and Myths We had made a special trip to visit this beautiful place, to learn a little bit of history and folk lore. I was with a party from Clanmil housing, and, after visiting Dracula's or Abertachs grave site, up the road a bit … an eerie place to be at night I would think... You could almost imagine the little bats flying round at head level, and the funny moans and groans of the wee goblins and spirits, in the dark and misty night, with thee wind blowing about, and the gentle clatter of horses hooves, as you tried to make out that you weren't scared we then made the trip here, ...to the Priory.. and by jove… it IS special … isn't it... Upon entering the site, and the little walk along the lane, you are immediately struck by the eerie stillness, and tranquillity, among the old ruins and falling headstones, and the long grasses … and I was always wondering, who was buried here , and, if they could see us now... what would they be thinking... The place is so sad looking, yet it is buzzing with a special atmosphere, that makes you want to see more...and learn more... I wonder what it would have been like living here... all those many many years ago... Also inside the building itself, there is the tomb of O'Cahan, a chieftan, with lovely, aged, and weathered, carvings of Scottish Soldiers, guarding the tomb... Also, along the entrance lane way there is on the right hand side, thru a hedge gap, a large round stone with a hole in it, and mementos tied on the tree branches... the stone is supposed to have healing powers ...for... “Worts” ... It is an incredible place to be, and I would have stayed longer, if we had not been on a schedule... But I can, without hesitation, absolutely highly recommend 110%, a visit to this historical site, it does, immediately, take your breath away, and when you, (reluctantly) leave, you can not help but wonder...!!! ...Who, were these wonderful people, who lived their lives inside these beautiful grounds, surrounded by peace and quietness... Oh... I do love history... After visiting, it makes me want to know more... and hopefully I will, at a later date... This is a MUST SEE area, steeped in mysterious history... I was so glad I got the chance to see it, and the area surrounding ...My little grandson in Scotland, would have loved this trip... he's well into old history, and he's almost 10 year old... Thank you to our tour guides on the bus, and to the Priory … A truly unforgettable day …
6. Moyry Castle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3 reviews
Reviewed By 877sineads
Moyry Castle, built in 1601 by Lord Mountjoy, in the parish of Dromintee, South Armagh, 6 miles from Dundalk & 9 miles from Newry in the Ring of Gullion (AONB). It was built to oversee/secure the Gap of the North (by the Elizabethan English) which is the ancient entrance to the province of Ulster through which the Dublin/Belfast railway line now travels. It commands stunning views of the area and is one of many historical sites which makes this part of Armagh well worth a visit to include, the Killnassagart Stone which is the oldest monastic site in Ireland, Sliabh Gullion, an ancient and mythical mountain which features in many of Irelands mythoglical tales, Cu Chuliann, Fionn McCool, the Cailleach Beara. Killeavy Old Church and grave yard, the pretty village of Forkhill and Larkin's pub and so much more. The area is the home of many peots and writers such as Michael J Murphy who's work recorded the tradition of handing down stories and history orally. This area also features amazing walks and trails and is the only ring dyke in Europe and so is a area of significant geological importance. Coupled with the areas geological proximity to the coastal region of the Cooley peninsula & Carlingford and with a ferry link (Greenore) across Carlingford Lough to South Down and the stunning Mourne Mountains - the entire area is well worth a visit and holds something for every visitor.
7. Layd Old Church
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6 reviews
Reviewed By rowanapeter - Lancaster, United Kingdom
Really nice walk from the car park at Cushendall beach, following the cliff path and ending up at Layde Old Church.
8. Giant's Ring
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 58 reviews
Reviewed By theis - Belfast, United Kingdom
Interesting circular henge surrounding a stone burial chamber, pleasant walk and excellent picnic site, especially with children. Adjacent car park, no charge.
9. Castlederg Castle
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 12 reviews
10. Dunseverick Castle
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 150 reviews
Reviewed By RogerBrownfamily - Coleraine, United Kingdom
This may not look like much from the road, but this is a site of exceptional historical significance as the seat of ancient Irish kings, many of whom were crowned here. St Patrick himself visited here in the 5th century, and it has seen many a skirmish from invading Norsemen and others over the years. I have been captivated by this place since childhood as my family owned the land that the castle stands on until gifting it to the National trust in the early 1970s. It is a little bit of a hike up to the top but well worth it. A Chinese reality show about super models chose this as one of the sites to film and so it has literally been seen across the globe. People do visit here from all over the world and I hope they continue to do so. There is a little bit of something special about this place.....perhaps a little bit of Irish magic. Please come and experience it for yourself.
