Glens of Antrim

The Glens of Antrim (Irish: Glinnte Aontroma), known locally as simply The Glens, is a beautiful region in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. This area has nine lovely valleys, or glens, that stretch from the high Antrim Plateau down to the coast. These glens are very special because they are an area of outstanding natural beauty and many people visit them for their stunning views and peaceful scenery.

Some of the main towns and villages in the Glens include Ballycastle, Cushendun, Cushendall, Waterfoot, Carnlough, and Glenarm. These places are home to friendly people and offer many chances to explore nature, go walking, or learn about the history of the area. The Glens of Antrim are a wonderful place to visit and enjoy the beauty of the Irish countryside.

The Lordship of the Glens

From the mid-13th century, the Glens of Antrim belonged to the Bissett family, who were originally Anglo-Norman but became more like the local Gaelic people over time. Later, in the late 14th century, the Glens passed to the MacDonnells of Antrim when John Mor Macdonald married Margery Bisset. John Mor then became known as the Lord of Dunyvaig and the Glens.

The nine glens

The Glens of Antrim are a beautiful area in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. They have nine lovely valleys that stretch from the high land down to the sea. These glens are very special and attract many visitors who come to see their natural beauty.

Tenth glen

Glenravel is sometimes called a tenth glen by locals. It is found to the southwest of Glenballyeamon and Glenariff, with the Glenariff forest park separating it from Glenariff.

The main places to live in Glenravel are Cargan, Martinstown and Skerry (Newtowncrommelin).

Archaeology

Old tools and items from the Neolithic time have been found in different spots in the Glens of Antrim, such as Bay Farm II and Madman's Window. These discoveries help us learn about people who lived there long ago.

In popular culture

The Glens of Antrim have appeared in songs and stories. They are mentioned in the song "Ireland's Call". A character named DI Sean Duffy, who appears in mystery books by Adrian McKinty, lives in the Glens. There is also a song called The Green Glens of Antrim, written by Kenneth North. Famous singers like The Wolfe Tones, Daniel O'Donnell, and Paddy Reilly have performed this song.