IN PICTURES: 22 lesser known N.I. towns and villages that are well worth a visit
By Andrew Quinn
Published 28th Feb 2019, 14:03 GMT
We all know the big destinations in Northern Ireland that pull the visitors - but what about the many gems that are often overlooked?
As the famous attractions burst at the seams, it is worth remembering that Northern Ireland is crammed with quaint, interesting and beautiful spots that deserve our attention. We look at 22 places that are well worth a visit - and offer a true slice of Northern Ireland life.
Ballintoy Harbour.
A picturesque Presbyterian Church sits near to the edge of the River Bush and not to far from the centre on the village.
The Tannaghmore Animal Farm is nearby and is well worth a visit for anyone with an interest in animals, farming or both.
The Curfew Tower in the centre of the village was built by then landlord of the town, Francis Turnley, in 1817, to confine riotous prisoners.
Frederick Hervey, 4th Earl of Bristol and Bishop of Derry built a mansion here in the 1700s - a ruined building is all thats left. Also home to the iconic Mussenden Temple.
Roughan Castle was built circa 1618 by Sir Andrew Stewart, second Lord Castlestewart, eldest son of Andrew Stewart, third Lord Ochiltree, first Lord Castlestewart, who came from Scotland during the plantation.
Ardglass Marina, sometimes also known as Phennick Cove, has a capacity for about 80 craft and a deep water basin open 24 hours daily all year.
The village was used to film many scenes set on the Iron Islands in HBO hit television series, Game of Thrones.
Fair Head, Ballycastle's headland rises 196 metres (643 ft) out of the bay. Goats roam the rocks beneath the cliff tops, where a walkway called 'The Gray Man's Path' winds around the coastline.
This is where Seamus Heaney Homeplace centre is located and is well worth visiting.
The village is also home to the impressive Benburb Castle built in 1611 by Sir Richard Wingfield on the ruins of a military fortification.
