Welcome to the town which is one of County Antrim’s «treasures». Historians claim that it is one of the oldest towns in Northern Ireland in terms of when it was inhabited. It was historically a point of reference, as it was one of the most important ports of the country. There are references to Larne from the Bronze Age. For the locals it is also one of the most popular destinations for your shopping and for its wonderful cuisine.
Currency: Pound Sterling
Calling Code: +44
Nearest airports from city center: Belfast Aldergrove Airport (37km), Belfast City Airport (40km), Londonderry Airport (114km), Glasgow Airport (201km).
TOP – 10 SIGHTSEEING
*** CARNFUNNOCK COUNTRY PARK ( Coast Road, Ballygally, Larne BT40 2QZ)
In over 190 hectares of forest, you will find beautiful paths, colorful gardens and natural landscapes that will enchant you.
*** GOBBINS CLIFF PATH (66 Middle Rd, Ballystrudder, Islandmagee, Larne BT40 3SL)
If you are a hiking enthusiast, then you should definitely visit it. It is about a 20-minute drive from the city center. The hiking route will be unforgettable.
*** CHAINE PARK
The name of the huge park was given in honor of James Chaine, who had played a very important role in the development of the city’s port. From this point you can even enjoy the view to Scotland.
*** WATERLOO BAY
Among the Jurassic rocks you will find fossils and travel to prehistoric times. See Triassic and Jurassic rocks.
*** LARNE MUSEUM & ARTS CENTRE (2 Victoria Rd, Larne BT40 1RN)
Opened in 1906, the history of Larne is presented with many exhibits. You will have the opportunity to see exhibits related to the agricultural, industrial, military and maritime history of the city.
*** CHAINE MEMORIAL TOWER (28 Chaine Memorial Rd, Larne BT40 1AD)
The town and its residents honor one of the area’s leading politicians and personalities, James Chaine (1841-1885).
*** BALLYGALLY BEACH
Once you are in Larne you should visit the seaside village of Ballygally which is about 10km away. Its beach is unique!
*** THE FRIENDS’ GOODWILL MEMORIAL (Curran Rd, Larne BT40)
This particular statue has a special history as it depicts the Irish emigration.
*** GLENO WATERFALL
Considered one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the country, it is only a 10-minute drive from the center of Larne.
*** BROWNS BAY BEACH
About half an hour’s drive away from the center of Larne, lies one of the most beautiful beaches in the country.
ΤΗINGS TO DO
*** About 30 minutes drive away from the city center is Portmuck Harbour. It is worth visiting and taking a photo.
*** Carnlough Bay Boat Tours! We would highly recommend exploring the area by boat.
*** If you have a car then cross the Antrim Coast Road. If you don’t have one, we would recommend you to take a taxi and do the route, because the natural scenery you will encounter is wonderful.
FOOD AND DRINK
Larne is a great city to eat treats that you will never forget. It has a lot of restaurants with many more cuisines that will fascinate you. Try local food such as Irish stew, fish and chips, pastie, oysters and Guinness, colcannon and champ, Northern Irish style lamb and seafood chowder. For breakfast try the Ulster Fry, while the Fifteens cake is excellent. Beer is an integral accompaniment to the locals’ food.
WHERE TO STAY
There are not many options for hotels or apartments and for this reason you should hurry to make the best possible choice for your stay.
FUN AND SHOPPING
*** Larne Leisure Center is an excellent choice for those who love water sports.
*** Laharna Retail Park is one of the main choices of locals for their shopping.
*** Murrayfield Shopping Center is a remarkable place for your shopping.
HOW TO GET AROUND
The most beautiful way to get around the city is on foot or by bike.
CITIES NEAR LARNE
Major cities close to Larne are Belfast (35km), Londonderry (118km), Glasgow (195km), Edinburgh (267km), Dublin (323km).
