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These Heritage Trails will be useful guides not only for visitors from foreign shores in search of their roots but also for those closer to home who seek an insight into three of the most historic settlements in the Borough of Antrim.
They trace an intriguing path through the rich historic past of the bustling town of Antrim, which has been a settlement dating back 1500 years, the picturesque village of Randalstown with its links to the linen and iron industries and the lively town of Crumlin which has some unique Christian and industrial heritage features.
Follow the trails and learn about the characters, events and places that shaped Antrim, Randalstown and Crumlin.
New Heritage Trail available
Antrim & Newtownabbey Councils have also produced a South Antrim Heritage Trail which highlights the fascinating heritage of South Antrim and takes you around the most important historical sites of this beautiful area. The Trail will highlight key facts, myths and legends of the sites and the surrounding areas.
Settlers have left their mark here for thousands of years. You will be transported back to the ancient world with visits to the remains of Neolithic burial tombs and forts, as well as a unique standing stone where partners have pledged undying love for centuries.
From a later age you will be guided to churchyards and holy wells from the dawn of Irish Christianity, whose traditions are still carried on today. You’ll visit Norman mottes, the site of a recently discovered 16th century castle and a hunting lodge built by the famous Donegall dynasty and explore enthralling collections at an atmospheric farmhouse unchanged from its Victorian heyday.
You’ll see monuments left by great local eccentrics and clock towers honouring local landowners. Discover the background of Ireland’s first Sunday School and churches with extraordinary stories and ministers, from Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver’s Travels, to Henry Cooke, one of the founders of modern Irish Presbyterianism.
Discover a unique bridge from the glory days of steam and take in the many reminders of the area’s remarkable industrial heritage, including cotton mills and beetling mills in this heartland of Ulster’s once world beating linen industry. An industry which has slowly declined over the years is the art of spade making. However, it’s still alive in South Antrim and you can see spades being made by hand at Europe’s last remaining working water driven spade mill.
Enjoy your journey! Copies of the South Antrim Heritage Trail are available at Old Courthouse Information Centre, Market Square, Antrim T: 028 9446 3113
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