By visiting any of the most picturesque villages in Northern Ireland included on our list, you will surely experience a great time and make memories that won’t soon be forgotten.
While Northern Ireland covers a pretty small region, it certainly delivers in a big way regarding the sheer amount of fantastic tourist attractions it has to offer visitors.
In 2022, over one million overnight trips to the north were recorded by the Republic’s Central Statistics Office (CSO), representing a 51 per cent jump from 2019. Northern Ireland also attracts many tourists from across the world annually.
Besides historical monuments and stunning scenery, Northern Ireland is also home to many quaint and picturesque villages that are always ready to offer visitors a warm welcome and a real taste of everything that Irish hospitality provides.
This article will list what we believe to be the top five most picturesque villages in Northern Ireland to experience at least once.
5. Glenarm – a pretty, picturesque village
Glenarm is a pretty, picturesque village which can be found on the coast of County Antrim, conveniently located close to Giant’s Causeway, which is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Ireland.
It is full of narrow streets and traditional Irish pubs. It is also home to many brilliant festivals throughout the year, including the ever-popular Glenarm Castle Highland Games.
4. Armoy – a village known for its beautiful countryside and traditional Irish architecture
Armoy is a small village which can be found in the heart of the Glens of Antrim and is well known for its beautiful countryside and traditional Irish architecture, which includes a variety of beautiful, thatched cottages.
One of the main attractions Armoy has to offer is the nearby Dark Hedges, a famous row of beech trees that have been featured in numerous movies and television shows, most famously in Game of Thrones.
3. Hillsborough – home to a variety of brilliant pubs and restaurants
Hillsborough is a picturesque village located in County Down, just a few short miles from Belfast. The village is well known for its stunning castle, which is centuries old, and its many beautiful gardens and historic churches.
Hillsborough is also a top-rated destination for foodies, thanks to its many delightful pubs and restaurants.
2. Portaferry – a charming coastal village
If you want to visit a coastal village that simply oozes charm, look no further than the village of Portaferry, located on the shores of Strangford Lough in County Down.
The village is well known for its gorgeous harbour and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Portaferry is conveniently located near many historic sites, such as the 12th-century Quintin Castle and many ancient churches.
The village also offers a great variety of traditional Irish pubs and shops, allowing visitors to experience life in rural Northern Ireland.
1. Cushendun – the most picturesque village in Northern Ireland
In first place on our list of the most picturesque villages in Northern Ireland is the village of Cushendun in County Antrim. Cushendun is a charming little village known for its beautiful sandy beaches and awe-inspiring views of the nearby countryside.
The village is adorned with a quaint collection of whitewashed cottages, traditional Irish pubs, and narrow streets. One of the most notable features of Cushendun is its unique architecture, which was designed by the famous architect Clough Williams-Ellis.
The village was initially built in the early 20th century as a holiday resort for wealthy families, which explains why it is home to such beautifully stunning architecture that stands out from other villages in Northern Ireland.
That concludes our article on the top five most picturesque villages in Northern Ireland. Have you visited any of these villages, and if so, how was your experience?
Also, are there any other beautiful and picturesque villages in Northern Ireland that you’ve been to before that you think deserve a place on our list?
